J. J.'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef, kidney beans, and a rich tomato base, perfect for comforting gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger meat in a Dutch oven with chopped onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Drain excess fat.
- Add tomato soup, kidney beans with juice, chili powder, white wine vinegar, and Tabasco sauce to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using ground chuck instead of regular hamburger meat. You can also substitute black beans or pinto beans for kidney beans if desired. If you like a spicier chili, add more Tabasco sauce or include diced jalapeños. Fresh herbs like cilantro can brighten the dish before serving. For a thicker consistency, simmer longer or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side salad, such as Midwest Vegetable Crunch Salad, for a refreshing contrast. You can also enjoy it over cooked rice or with tortilla chips for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl until heated through. If the chili thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth when reheating to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of J. J.'S Chili contains roughly 1227 calories, with 52g protein, 190g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (179% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (115% of the Daily Value), and iron (105% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1738mg per serving (76% 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 make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by replacing the hamburger meat with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of the beef broth if you decide to add liquid, and ensure the beans are canned without meat additives.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, start with less chili powder and Tabasco sauce, then taste and add more as needed. You can also include diced fresh jalapeños or use spicy chili powder for an extra kick. For milder flavors, opt for sweet bell peppers and omit the Tabasco.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, crusty bread, or over rice. You can also top it with cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added creaminess. A fresh salad, like Just Like Fresh Cooked Green Beans, can complement the richness of the chili.
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).