Jack'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and spices, perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners craving bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then pour off excess liquid.
- Add chopped onion to the beef and cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste, chili beans, diced tomatoes, and water to reach desired consistency.
- Add pepper, salt, chili powder, and sugar to the mixture.
- Simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef with some minced garlic or using ground turkey as a leaner substitute. You can also add bell peppers or jalapeños for extra heat. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of water or let it simmer longer. For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for lentils or a meat substitute to keep it hearty and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jack's Chili with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top for added creaminess. It pairs excellently with cornbread or tortilla chips. For a complete meal, consider side dishes like a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. This dish also complements well with American recipes like Beefy Easy, offering a comforting and hearty dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to restore consistency. You can also microwave the chili in a microwave-safe dish, covering it to retain moisture, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jack'S Chili contains roughly 368 calories, with 17g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and iron (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1662mg per serving (72% 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 canned chili beans or do I need to cook them from scratch?
Using canned chili beans is both convenient and perfectly acceptable for this recipe. They are pre-cooked and save time, making the preparation quicker while still providing great flavor and texture. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the chili to reduce sodium content.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the spice level, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce when combining the ingredients. You can also use spicy chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Taste as you go to ensure it reaches your desired heat level without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I freeze Jack's Chili for later use?
Yes, Jack's Chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
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).