Mexicali Chili
A hearty Mexican-inspired chili with savory beef, tender vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, chopped green pepper, minced garlic, and chili powder to the beef; cook until tender.
- Add the condensed chili beef soup, tomato soup, water, shredded cheese, and salt to the mixture.
- Cook over low heat for 20 minutes, stirring often until heated through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have chili beef soup, use regular beef soup combined with extra chili powder for flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance the flavor profile as well. This dish pairs well with other Mexican recipes such as Firecracker Enchilada Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mexicali Chili with crusty bread, tortillas, or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Top with extra shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions for added flavor. This dish also complements a side salad or pairs beautifully with Alda'S Hot Cheese Dip for an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. If it thickens, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicali Chili contains roughly 1978 calories, with 85g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 130g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (170% of the Daily Value), calcium (118% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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, Mexicali Chili can be made a day ahead. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld even more. Simply reheat when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. Adjust seasoning accordingly to ensure flavor.
How spicy is this chili?
The spiciness of Mexicali Chili primarily comes from the chili powder. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder or use a sweet variety. For more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh chilies.
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).