Microwave One-Step Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with tender ground meat, beans, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with a smoky, spicy kick.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. extra lean ground meat ⓘ
- 1 3/4 c. pinto beans and liquid ⓘ
- 1 3/4 c. cut up Contadina peeled whole tomatoes and juice ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1/4 c. chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1 crushed garlic clove ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chili powder ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. cumin ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a microwave-safe 2-quart casserole dish. Cover and microwave on High for 5 minutes.
- Stir to break up the meat. Microwave for an additional 20 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
- If using less lean meat, micro-cook first and drain off excess fat before combining with other ingredients.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute the ground meat with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lower-fat or vegetarian option. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of liquid from the beans or tomatoes. Experiment with different beans for unique flavors, or try adding corn for sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with J. T.'S Guacamole and tortilla chips for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it over rice or with cornbread on the side. This dish is also excellent for meal prep.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave One-Step Chili contains roughly 902 calories, with 68g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), protein (137% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (134% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 939mg per serving (41% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Simply prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve. It's perfect for meal prepping!
What can I add to make it spicier?
To increase the heat, consider adding diced fresh jalapeños, extra chili powder, or even a splash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also mix in some chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky flavor. Adjust to your spice preference for the perfect kick.
Is there a vegetarian option for this chili?
Absolutely! You can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the ground meat with additional beans, lentils, or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of meat stock if desired. This recipe is versatile and can accommodate various dietary preferences.
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).