Marilyn'S Chili(Trouble, But Worth It!)
A hearty, spicy chili packed with ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting gatherings and those craving bold flavors with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped onions in a skillet until slightly softened, then transfer to a large pot.
- Add drained and rinsed red kidney beans, whole tomatoes with juice, and chopped seeds removed from tomatoes to the pot.
- Stir in sugar and mix well.
- Brown the ground beef, then rinse off excess grease under hot water and add to the pot.
- Add chili powder and chili sauce to the mixture.
- Squeeze generous amounts of ketchup into the pot and stir thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a bubbling temperature over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and add salt as needed before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or cumin to the chili powder. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or textured vegetable protein. You can also adjust the heat by adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Using fresh tomatoes instead of canned can enhance the dish, especially in summer when they're in season.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions can enhance the flavor. It also pairs beautifully with Best Beans In The West for a delightful side. For a complete meal, consider a fresh garden salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the chili in a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe container, covering it to retain moisture. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marilyn'S Chili(Trouble, But Worth It!) contains roughly 312 calories, with 8g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (272% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and potassium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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! In fact, making the chili a day ahead allows the flavors to meld even more. Just let it cool completely before refrigerating. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian chili, use black beans or lentils instead of meat. This will still provide a hearty texture and flavor without sacrificing satisfaction.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To control the spice level, start with less chili powder and gradually add more to suit your taste. If you want a milder chili, omit the chili sauce and use sweet bell peppers instead. Additionally, serving with sour cream can help tone down the heat.
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).