Italian Style Chili
Italian Style Chili combines rich ground beef, tomatoes, mushrooms, and basil with classic chili spices, creating a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 3/4 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. water ⓘ
- 14 1/2 oz. whole tomatoes, chopped and undrained ⓘ
- 4 oz. can sliced and drained mushrooms ⓘ
- 2 oz. pepperoni ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. beef bouillon or 3 cubes ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. chili powder ⓘ
- 26 oz. jar Classico Di Napoli tomato and basil pasta sauce ⓘ
- 2 tsp. sugar ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add water, chopped tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, sliced pepperoni, beef bouillon, chili powder, tomato and basil pasta sauce, and sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or turkey. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for more or less heat. This dish also pairs nicely with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Italian Style Chili with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. A side salad or some garlic bread complements it well. For a comforting twist, try pairing it with Cheese Tortellini Soup for a delightful Italian-inspired dinner. Garnish with fresh basil or grated cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or until hot. Consider freezing portions for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Style Chili contains roughly 210 calories, with 9g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1334mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. It will still provide a delicious flavor while being a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey may cook slightly faster, so watch it closely to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also use hot chili powder instead of the regular variety. Additionally, topping the chili with spicy salsa can enhance the heat and flavor.
Is there a way to make this chili gluten-free?
Absolutely! To ensure this dish is gluten-free, check that your beef bouillon and pasta sauce are labeled gluten-free. Most canned tomatoes and mushrooms are naturally gluten-free, but it's always wise to read labels. This way, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of chili without any gluten concerns.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).