Mom'S Quick Chili
A quick, hearty chili with savory beef, beans, and tangy tomato flavor, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the entire family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef.
- Drain fat.
- Add Manwich, beans, and 1/2 can water.
- Add salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste.
- Add water until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Serve with crackers and bread or cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a faster cooking time, use pre-cooked or leftover ground beef. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want to add more veggies, consider including bell peppers or corn. Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference, and remember that adding a little sugar can help balance the flavors. Serve with crackers or bread for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
This chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, making it a hearty meal. You can also serve it with sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro on top for added flavor. Consider a side of tortilla chips or a simple salad to complement the dish. For a fun twist, try it as a filling for Sloppy Joe Squares for an exciting variation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely with a lid. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of water during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Quick Chili contains roughly 423 calories, with 29g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (120% of the Daily Value), iron (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 945mg 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or using more beans and vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning to maintain the flavor profile.
What type of beans should I use?
You can use either kidney beans or chili beans, depending on your preference. Chili beans often come in a spicy sauce, which can enhance the flavor of your chili. Feel free to mix different types of beans for added texture and taste.
How can I make the chili spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or more chili powder. You can also use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky flavor. Just remember to add spices gradually, tasting as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
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).