Original Chili Soup
A hearty, flavorful chili soup combining ground beef, vegetables, and rich tomato-based sauce, perfect for comfort food lovers and suitable for gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- While the meat is browning, add chopped onion and green pepper to the skillet.
- Cook until vegetables are tender and meat is fully browned.
- Add spaghetti sauce, tomato juice, and red kidney beans to the mixture.
- Simmer the soup for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the ground hamburger for lentils or mushrooms. You can also use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato juice for added texture. Adjust the sugar to balance acidity based on your spaghetti sauce's sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili soup hot, garnished with shredded cheese or fresh herbs. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of Italian Bread Dip for a delightful meal. Consider offering toppings like sour cream or diced green onions to enhance flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Original Chili Soup contains roughly 727 calories, with 31g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (234% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2079mg per serving (90% 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 soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving.
Can I substitute the ground hamburger with another protein?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
What can I serve with chili soup?
This chili soup pairs excellently with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips. You might also enjoy it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving a Cheese Ball With Ham for a delightful appetizer.
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).