Mel'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for comforting dinners and family gatherings, offering a rich, savory taste with a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a large pot.
- Drain excess fat and liquid.
- Add tomato paste, water, and crushed garlic to the pot.
- Simmer the mixture until thick, about 2 hours.
- Add chili beans, chili seasoning mix, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for an additional 15 minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve topped with grated cheddar cheese.
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 paste. Fresh jalapeños can replace the chili seasoning mix for an extra kick. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked ground beef can speed up the browning process. This chili is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mel's Chili with a sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese on top, and consider adding a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. Pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. For a complete dinner, serve alongside a crisp salad or browse more American recipes for additional side options.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mel'S Chili contains roughly 1011 calories, with 54g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (120% of the Daily Value), protein (109% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2646mg per serving (115% 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 ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner chili. Just make sure to brown it well to enhance its flavor, and you may need to adjust the seasoning slightly to suit your taste.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a mix of chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, and lentils. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth. This way, you can still enjoy a hearty chili without meat.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To increase the heat in Mel's Chili, consider adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can also stir in some hot sauce or diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky flavor. Adjust according to your heat preference.
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).