Microwave Chili Con Carne
A quick and hearty microwave chili con carne packed with savory beef, vegetables, and bold chili flavors, perfect for a speedy meal or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble ground beef into a 2-quart microproof casserole or baking dish.
- Add minced onion, chopped green pepper, and minced garlic.
- Cook, uncovered, on High (maximum power) for 4 minutes.
- Drain meat and break up with a fork.
- Add chopped tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans (with juice), chili powder, and salt.
- Cover and cook on 70 (Roast) for 15 to 18 minutes or until hot.
- Stir once during cooking time; adjust seasonings as needed.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. You can also use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies for added flavor. Experiment with different beans, such as black beans, for a twist. This dish is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili con carne hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Warm Taco Salad or tortilla chips for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside cornbread or over rice. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or game day gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave and cover loosely to avoid splatters, heating in short intervals until hot. For longer storage, freeze in portions and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Chili Con Carne contains roughly 513 calories, with 34g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (127% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (112% of the Daily Value), and iron (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2233mg per serving (97% 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 make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or using more beans and vegetables. Consider adding black beans, corn, or zucchini for a hearty texture and flavor.
How can I thicken the chili if it's too watery?
If your chili is too watery, you can thicken it by cooking it uncovered for a few more minutes in the microwave, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of tomato paste or cornmeal can help achieve a thicker consistency.
What can I serve with chili con carne?
Chili con carne is great on its own but can also be served with toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, or avocado. For sides, consider cornbread, rice, or a fresh salad. It also pairs well with other Mexican recipes like Over The Top Nachos for a fun twist.
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).