Mom'S Sweet Chili
Mom's Sweet Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish blending savory beef, sweet ketchup, and spicy chili powder, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the onions in 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the hamburger; fry and drain.
- In a large pot, add the onions and hamburger mixture.
- Then add the rest of the ingredients.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 to 2 hours or all day.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a meat alternative. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar to taste. This chili can also be enhanced with a splash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sweet chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Broccoli-Cauliflower Salad(Must Prepare Ahead) for a colorful and nutritious side. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway for even heating. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Sweet Chili contains roughly 368 calories, with 11g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1075mg per serving (47% 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 a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives to suit your dietary preferences. Each will give a different flavor profile, so choose what you enjoy best.
How can I make this chili less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, simply decrease the amount of brown sugar and consider adding more chili powder or other spices to enhance the savory flavors. Taste as you go to achieve your desired balance.
Is it possible to make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. It’s perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
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).