Medium Thick Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili with tender ground beef, rich tomato flavors, and savory beans, perfect for satisfying family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the hamburger, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, salt, pepper, tomato juice, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and chili powder well.
- Add 3 cans of light red kidney beans to the mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the hamburger before blending it with the other ingredients. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, and for a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or chili powder. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer longer before serving, which helps concentrate the flavors. Pair it with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this medium thick chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or cornbread on the side. You can also serve it over rice or with tortilla chips for a fun twist. For a complete meal, consider a refreshing side like Manor Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl until heated through. If the chili has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to return it to your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Medium Thick Chili contains roughly 461 calories, with 21g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value), potassium (82% of the Daily Value), and iron (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2568mg per serving (112% 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?
Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it ahead of time, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving, and enjoy the enhanced taste.
What beans can I use instead of kidney beans?
You can easily substitute kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or even white beans based on your preference. Each type adds a unique flavor and texture, so feel free to mix and match for a customized chili experience.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, replace the hamburger with a plant-based meat alternative or use additional beans like chickpeas or lentils. You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, for added nutrition and flavor.
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).