Oscar'S Chili
Oscar's Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, kidney beans, and chunky tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef until browned; pour off excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce and kidney beans to the beef.
- Cook uncovered over low heat for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground chuck with diced onions and bell peppers. You can substitute ground turkey or a plant-based option for a lighter or vegan recipe. If you prefer spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Using canned tomatoes instead of tomato sauce can add texture and acidity, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Oscar's Chili in bowls topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced green onions. It pairs beautifully with Fried Sugar Pies for a sweet touch. Offer crusty bread or cornbread on the side to soak up the sauce, and consider a refreshing Cranberry Spritzer to complement the meal. It's a hearty dish perfect for game day or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oscar'S Chili contains roughly 8 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 Oscar's Chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making chili a day in advance can enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving. It can also be frozen for future meals; just remember to cool it completely before freezing.
What can I add to make this chili healthier?
You can increase the nutritional value by adding chopped vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach. Using leaner cuts of meat or substituting with beans can also make it healthier. Opting for low-sodium tomato sauce and beans helps reduce the sodium content.
Is Oscar's Chili suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this chili can be easily made gluten-free by ensuring that the tomato sauce and any additional toppings, like cheese or sour cream, are gluten-free certified. Most canned beans are also gluten-free; just check the labels to be sure.
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).