Monique'S Famous Chili
Monique's Famous Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground meat, sausage, beans, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In one pan, cook the ground meat until browned.
- When halfway done, add chopped onion and sliced sausage; cook until meat is fully cooked, then drain excess fat.
- In another pot, combine tomato sauce, chili seasoning, chili with beans, water, and stewed tomatoes.
- Add the cooked meat mixture to the pot with the sauce and beans.
- Simmer and cook for about 20 minutes on medium heat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with lentils or additional beans. You can also use different types of beans based on your preference. For a thicker chili, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Monique's Famous Chili with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro on top. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a hearty meal. Consider offering a side of Arkansas Campfire Potatoes for a complete comfort food experience. This chili also makes a great filling for tacos or burritos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Monique'S Famous Chili contains roughly 719 calories, with 42g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (84% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), and iron (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2149mg per serving (93% 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 chili?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, try using a combination of beef and pork. Just ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly and drained of excess fat before adding it to the chili.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the chili?
To control the heat level, you can use mild chili seasoning or reduce the amount of chili with beans if it contains spices. Adding ingredients like sour cream or avocado as toppings can also help balance the spice. For those who enjoy more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or diced green chilies during cooking.
Is it possible to make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! Brown the meat and onions in a skillet first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a deliciously rich flavor.
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).