Midwest Chili
A hearty Midwest chili featuring tender beef, smoky chiles, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for gatherings and comfort food enthusiasts seeking bold, warming dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add beef chuck, beef hamburger, chopped onions, and chopped garlic to a heavy Dutch oven.
- Break up any lumps with a fork and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned.
- Stir in ground hot red chile, ground mild red chile, cumin, and salt.
- Add water, tomato sauce, and canned tomatoes, mashing with a fork.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1 1/2 hours.
- Stir occasionally during simmering.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Stir in beans and simmer, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a hint of smoked paprika. If you prefer a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne. For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with a mix of lentils and mushrooms, keeping the same spices. This chili can also be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Midwest Chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra creaminess. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or classic coleslaw to balance the flavors. For a complete meal, this chili can be enjoyed as part of a comforting feast with other hearty American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion the chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to leave space for expansion. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water if the chili thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Midwest Chili contains roughly 919 calories, with 49g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), protein (98% of the Daily Value), and calcium (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1214mg per serving (53% 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 or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this chili recipe. However, the flavor and texture will differ slightly. Make sure to adjust the cooking time as leaner meats may cook faster and require less simmering.
How do I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add more hot red chile or incorporate fresh chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also include a few dashes of hot sauce towards the end of cooking for an extra kick. Remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Can I add beans to the chili?
Absolutely! Adding beans can enhance the texture and nutritional value of your chili. Common choices include kidney beans or black beans. If you’re adding beans, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow them to heat through without becoming mushy.
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).