Janet'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with smoky bacon, bold spices, and a rich tomato base, perfect for warming up and satisfying a crowd on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker or pot.
- Cook on low heat for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider browning the hamburger and sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use canned chili beans instead of red beans for convenience. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. This chili pairs beautifully with Ritz Crackers Meat Loaf for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Janet's Chili with a side of cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced green onions for added flavor. It also makes a great filling for tacos or burritos. For a complete dinner, consider pairing it with a refreshing salad or browse more American recipes for perfect side options.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the chili for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Janet'S Chili contains roughly 31 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% 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 Janet's Chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili benefits from being made ahead of time as the flavors meld together beautifully. You can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat it before serving. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of beef bouillon?
If you don't have beef bouillon, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or chicken bouillon for a different flavor. Alternatively, use a homemade broth or stock to enhance the overall taste of your chili.
Is this chili kid-friendly?
Yes, Janet's Chili is generally kid-friendly! To make it milder for younger palates, you can reduce the cayenne pepper and chili powder. Serving it with toppings like cheese and sour cream can also help make it more appealing to children.
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).