Missouri Chili
Missouri Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender pinto beans, savory ground beef, and a spicy chili powder kick. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, it's perfect for comforting dinners and casual gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy bold flavors and rich textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the pinto beans for 2 to 3 hours.
- Boil the soaked beans for 4 to 6 hours, adding water as needed.
- While boiling, add garlic powder and salt to taste.
- Fry the hamburger until browned, then add it to the beans.
- Add chili powder and beef soup powder, then simmer for 45 minutes.
- Grate the Cheddar cheese.
- Serve the chili topped with grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions and bell peppers when frying the hamburger. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, replace the hamburger with crumbled tempeh or textured vegetable protein. Adjust the heat by using milder chili powder or adding diced jalapeños. You can also use canned beans for quicker prep, but soak and cook dried beans for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Missouri Chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheddar cheese on top and a dollop of sour cream. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. For a fun twist, consider using it as a filling for sliders or topping a baked potato.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Missouri Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Missouri Chili contains roughly 199 calories, with 9g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2440mg per serving (106% 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 Missouri Chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Soak the beans as directed, then add them with the rest of the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally until the beans are tender.
What can I substitute for pinto beans?
If you don’t have pinto beans, you can use black beans or kidney beans as a substitute. Both options will add a different flavor and texture to the chili while still providing heartiness. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if using canned beans.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat in your Missouri Chili, try adding diced fresh jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or using a spicier chili powder. You can also top your chili with sliced fresh jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce just before serving for an extra kick.
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).