Lazy Man'S Chile
Lazy Man's Chili is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners. It combines savory ground meat, rich tomato flavor, and hearty kidney beans, seasoned simply with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Ideal for those craving a flavorful, no-fuss meal that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat with the diced onion and seasonings.
- Add tomato soup (do not dilute).
- Add kidney beans (do not dilute).
- Let simmer for 15 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic powder or diced bell peppers alongside the onions. If you're looking for a lighter option, substituting ground turkey is a great choice. Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference, and if you want a thicker consistency, add a can of diced tomatoes. This dish can also be served over rice or with cornbread for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Lazy Man's Chile with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top for added creaminess. It pairs well with cornbread or tortilla chips, making for a delightful crunch. You can also add a fresh salad on the side or serve it alongside the Vegetable Potato Soup for a comforting meal combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick. Freezing is an option as well; just ensure it's cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Man'S Chile contains roughly 251 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 578mg per serving (25% 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 instead of kidney beans?
Absolutely! Canned chili beans can add even more flavor to your dish. Just drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot. This will save you time and enhance the overall taste of your Lazy Man's Chile.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Lazy Man's Chile vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef or turkey with a plant-based meat substitute or increase the amount of beans used. Black beans, pinto beans, or lentils work well. You can also add more vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for extra nutrients.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
If your chili turns out too spicy, you can balance the heat by stirring in a bit of sour cream or yogurt. Adding a tablespoon of sugar or honey can also help counteract the spice. If you have leftover Vegetable Potato Soup, adding a scoop can tone down the heat while enhancing the flavor.
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).