Nana'S Chili Or Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty, flavorful chili or spaghetti sauce featuring ground beef, beans, and a rich tomato base, perfect for comforting family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in enough fat to prevent sticking.
- Add ground beef and brown thoroughly.
- Drain excess fat and juices from the beef.
- Add seasonings: chili powder, pepper, hot sauce, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and two cans of water.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cook over low heat for approximately 1 hour, stirring frequently.
- Add more water if the chili or sauce thickens too much.
- If making chili, add the drained red kidney beans.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker chili, allow it to simmer longer, and consider adding a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina for extra texture. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce is a good substitute. For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. This dish can also be spiced up with jalapeños or other chili peppers to suit your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili over spaghetti for a classic twist or enjoy it on its own with cornbread or crusty bread. Garnish with shredded cheese, diced onions, and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Cowboy Steak 'N Veggie Soup for a hearty meal or can be complemented with a simple green salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Freeze any extra sauce in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S Chili Or Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 364 calories, with 24g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (200% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), and protein (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose, as some may require less time to cook through.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of chili powder and Louisiana hot sauce. You can also include diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Taste as you go to find the perfect level of spice that suits your palate.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this chili sauce freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stovetop or microwave when ready to enjoy.
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).