Jackie'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, kidney beans, and spices, perfect for a comforting meal that suits family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce, water, chopped green pepper, chili powder, salt, pepper, and oregano to the beef mixture.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 minutes.
- Add the kidney beans to the chili and cook for an additional hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce to the chili. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use diced mushrooms or lentils instead of ground beef and swap the kidney beans for black beans. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference for a customized spice level.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jackie’s Chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for added richness. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving a simple green salad on the side. This chili can also be used as a filling for baked potatoes or tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then heat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jackie'S Chili contains roughly 585 calories, with 35g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (181% of the Daily Value), iron (137% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2269mg per serving (99% 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 in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and onion, transfer them to a slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and is a great option for busy days.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add more heat, try increasing the amount of chili powder or adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also include a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Taste as you go to find the perfect spice level for your palate.
What can I serve with Jackie’s Chili?
Jackie’s Chili is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh garden salad. It also works well as a topping for baked potatoes or as a filling in tacos, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
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).