Jack 'N' Jill Chili

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A hearty, flavorful chili with tender meat, rich tomato base, and smoky spices, perfect for casual gatherings and comfort food lovers seeking bold taste.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. chili meat
  • 2 (16 oz.) cans crushed tomatoes
  • 2 (16 oz.) cans tomato puree
  • 1/2 large onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup chili powder
  • 48 oz. water
  • 1 tablespoon onion salt
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Brown the chili meat, drain, and set aside.
  2. Saute diced onion until tender.
  3. Add the cooked meat, crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, chili powder, water, onion salt, and garlic powder to the pan.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
  5. Add beer and simmer the chili for 30 minutes.
  6. Serve topped with shredded Cheddar cheese, accompanied by saltine crackers.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or using smoked chili powder. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chili meat with lentils or mushrooms. Adjust the spice level by adding fresh jalapeños or cayenne pepper. For a thicker chili, let it simmer longer or mash some beans into the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded Cheddar cheese and accompanied by saltine crackers for a satisfying crunch. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a fresh salad like Pear, Cashew And Cherry Salad for a delightful contrast. For a beverage, consider serving with a cold beer or a refreshing Fresh Limeade.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place cooled chili in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. A splash of water can help restore consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Jack 'N' Jill Chili contains roughly 451 calories, with 11g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1056mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).

451 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.7g 21% DV
Total Fat 18g 23% DV
Carbs 68.1g 25% DV
Fiber 10g 36% DV
Sugar 18.5g 37% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1055.8mg 46% DV
Potassium 1346.8mg 29% DV
Cholesterol 0.8mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 246.7mcg 27% DV
Vitamin C 51.4mg 57% DV
Calcium 110.2mg 8% DV
Iron 6.7mg 37% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 spicy?

Absolutely! To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the chili. You can also use spicy chili powder or hot sauce to taste. Adjust according to your preference. Remember to taste as you go to achieve the perfect spice level for your palate.

Can I prepare this chili in advance?

Yes, this chili is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, its flavors deepen and improve after sitting for a day. Simply follow the recipe, let the chili cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving for optimal flavor.

What can I serve with Jack 'N' Jill Chili?

This chili is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with toppings like sour cream, diced onions, or avocado. Additionally, serving it with cornbread or tortilla chips adds a wonderful texture. For a refreshing side, consider a simple green salad or browse more American recipes to complement your meal.

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).

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