Mcelhaney'S Tex-Mex Trail Chili
A hearty Tex-Mex chili featuring ground beef, pinto beans, and bold spices, perfect for comfort food lovers and ideal for preparing ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown onion, garlic, and meat in a small amount of oil.
- Add salt, cumin, and chili powder.
- Stir to combine.
- Add water, bouillon cube, and pinto beans.
- Simmer for at least 30 minutes.
- Reheat before serving for better flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Mcelhaney'S Tex-Mex Trail Chili, consider using a mix of ground meats like pork or turkey for a different taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked pinto beans can be a great substitute for dried ones. For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Don't forget to adjust the salt based on your bouillon cube's saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mcelhaney'S Tex-Mex Trail Chili with warm tortillas or cornbread for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Perfect (And Simple) Salsa for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving a side of Mexican rice or a simple salad to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the chili. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mcelhaney'S Tex-Mex Trail Chili contains roughly 465 calories, with 13g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (104% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2328mg per serving (101% 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?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for vegetarian diets by replacing the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply using more beans and vegetables. You can also add extra spices for depth of flavor. Consider using vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon to enhance the taste.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level of the chili, start with less chili powder and add more to taste as it simmers. You can also incorporate mild or hot peppers depending on your preference. For a milder version, omit any added hot sauce or jalapeños, and serve with sour cream to cool it down.
What sides pair well with this chili?
Mcelhaney'S Tex-Mex Trail Chili is delicious with sides like cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with rice or in a baked potato for a filling meal. For a fun twist, try it over nachos topped with cheese and Margo'S Salsa for a crowd-pleasing dish.
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).