Old West Chili
Old West Chili offers a hearty, smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness and spice, perfect for comforting gatherings and fans of bold, robust chili dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and crushed red pepper over medium heat and cook until beef is browned.
- In a large kettle, combine refried beans, kidney beans, molasses, and tomato sauce, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and add the skillet mixture to the kettle.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mix of chopped vegetables. You can also adjust the spice level by reducing the cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper if you prefer a milder chili. This dish pairs nicely with cornbread or over rice, making it a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Old West Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips, making for a fulfilling meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or a side of Baked Spaghetti Supper.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Old West Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent splatters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old West Chili contains roughly 1384 calories, with 81g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), protein (162% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (129% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 840mg per serving (37% 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 turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef in this recipe for a leaner option. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until it's no longer pink, and adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To ramp up the heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper. Additionally, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Just remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Can I freeze leftover chili?
Absolutely! Leftover Old West Chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
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).