Lou'S Chili
Lou's Chili is a hearty, flavorful comfort food blending ground beef, garlic, dried onions, and chili spices in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for satisfying gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add minced garlic, dried onions, chili mix, salt, and tomato sauce to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lou's Chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Topping with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro enhances its flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Ruth'S Lake Texoma Beans for a comforting and filling dinner. Consider offering a simple green salad on the side for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual servings for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lou'S Chili contains roughly 201 calories, with 8g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1321mg per serving (57% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely add canned chili beans to this recipe for added texture and flavor. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the skillet. This will enhance the heartiness of the chili and provide additional protein. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is heated through.
How do I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Lou's Chili, replace the ground beef with a mix of lentils, black beans, and kidney beans. Use vegetable broth instead of the tomato sauce for added depth. You may need to adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors, and simmer for about 30 minutes to let the ingredients meld.
Can I freeze Lou's Chili?
Absolutely! Lou's Chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
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).