Light And Easy Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with bacon bits, lean hamburger, and baked beans, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that appeals to comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the diced onions with the lean hamburger until the onions are translucent and the meat is browned.
- Combine the cooked hamburger and onions with the bacon bits, stewed tomatoes, baked beans, garlic powder, chili powder, and brown sugar in a large pot.
- Simmer the mixture for about 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey or chicken instead of lean hamburger. You can also substitute fresh tomatoes for stewed if preferred. Adjust the chili powder based on your spice tolerance, and if you want a smokier flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika. Pairing with a side salad, like Mushroom Spinach Salad, can enhance the meal's freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped green onions or shredded cheese for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. You can also enjoy it over rice or with a dollop of sour cream. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Susan'S Baked Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Light And Easy Chili contains roughly 1138 calories, with 20g protein, 255g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 943mg per serving (41% 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 vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the lean hamburger with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, or textured vegetable protein. Ensure to use vegetarian bacon bits or omit them entirely. This maintains the dish's heartiness while catering to vegetarian diets.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the pot. You can also use a spicier chili powder or add cayenne pepper. Taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili is versatile and can be served with various sides. Cornbread or crusty bread is a classic choice. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it with a side salad. It also pairs well with tortilla chips for dipping or even over baked potatoes for a twist.
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).