Mac'S Hot Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring tender ground beef, rich spices, and customizable heat levels, perfect for comforting gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- When oil is hot in a 6-quart pot, add ground beef, stirring constantly until the meat turns gray and nearly brown.
- Add water and simmer the mixture for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Add all remaining ingredients: chili pods or chili powder, salt, chopped garlic, cumin, oregano, red pepper, sugar, and paprika.
- Cook the chili for an additional 30 minutes.
- Thicken the chili, if desired, by serving over cornmeal and water.
- If there is much fat, you may skim it off.
- Cook pinto beans separately and add them at the end.
- Serve the chili over raw onions on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork. If you prefer a milder chili, use less red pepper or opt for sweet paprika instead of smoked. You can replace chili pods with canned chipotle peppers for a smoky twist. Don't forget to adjust the salt based on the broth's saltiness if adding beans or other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mac's Hot Chili over a bed of raw onions for a delightful crunch. Accompany with cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. You can also top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor. This chili pairs beautifully with Cheesy Mac Chili for a fun twist on comfort food.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place cooled chili in freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. When reheating, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mac'S Hot Chili contains roughly 614 calories, with 19g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (281% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1030mg per serving (45% 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?
Yes, Mac's Hot Chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day ahead, cool completely, and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for a quick meal later.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh. Increase the amount of beans to add protein and texture. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor, and adjust seasoning to taste.
What can I serve with this chili?
Mac's Hot Chili is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with sides like cornbread or tortilla chips. Consider serving it with a simple salad for freshness or alongside American recipes like Stuffed Green Peppers For Microwave for a complete meal.
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).