Last Minute Chili
A quick and hearty chili packed with bold flavors from ground beef, tomato sauce, and chili mix. Topped with sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped peppers, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or casual gathering with friends. Easy to customize with your favorite toppings and spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add the chili mix, cold water, and tomato sauce to the browned beef.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Spoon the chili into bowls.
- Top with sour cream, shredded Cheddar cheese, and chopped peppers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a can of diced tomatoes or a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce. If you don't have ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner substitute. You can also enhance the dish with beans for added protein and fiber. If you want a thicker chili, let it simmer a bit longer or add tomato paste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream, shredded mild Cheddar cheese, and chopped peppers for freshness. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a salad or a side of Homemade Vegetable Soup for extra nutrients.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, consider freezing the chili for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Last Minute Chili contains roughly 1028 calories, with 57g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (134% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (129% of the Daily Value), and protein (114% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1630mg per serving (71% 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 advance?
Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove before serving.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a mix of beans like black beans and kidney beans, or even textured vegetable protein. You can also add extra vegetables for more texture.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add more heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use a spicier chili mix, like 4-Alarm Chili, to kick it up a notch. Adjust the spice level to your personal preference for the perfect balance.
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).