Kentucky Chili
A hearty Kentucky chili with rich beef, beans, and bold spices, perfect for cozy gatherings and satisfying cravings with a flavorful tomato-based broth and tender spaghetti.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown ground beef and chopped onion.
- Drain the beef mixture and set aside.
- In a kettle, combine tomato juice, water, chili beans, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked beef mixture; simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti until al dente, then drain.
- Stir the cooked spaghetti into the chili before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use crushed tomatoes instead of tomato juice for a thicker consistency. To enhance the flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cumin or smoked paprika, which pairs beautifully with classic meat loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Kentucky Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese and chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or a side salad. For a unique twist, consider adding a dollop of sour cream as a topping, reminiscent of chili con carne americano. Enjoy it over cooked spaghetti for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Kentucky Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kentucky Chili contains roughly 607 calories, with 28g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and iron (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2243mg per serving (98% 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 a different type of meat in this chili?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you're looking for a lighter option. You could also use a mix of meats for added flavor, such as beef and pork. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose.
How can I make this chili less spicy?
To reduce the spiciness, simply decrease the amount of chili powder used or omit it altogether. You can also add a bit of sugar or honey to balance out the heat. Adding more tomato juice or beans can help dilute the spice as well.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the chili?
Consider adding chopped bell peppers, garlic, or even a splash of beer for depth of flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten the dish. For an extra layer of taste, a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce is a fantastic addition.
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).