Our Favorite Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef and beans, perfect for satisfying a crowd or cozy family dinners, featuring bold tomato and spice notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground chuck over medium heat until done, then drain excess fat.
- Combine cooked meat with light red kidney beans, refried beans, salsa, tomato sauce, and Ro-Tel tomatoes in a crock pot.
- Heat on low setting for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mix. If you're out of light red kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans can work as great substitutes. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat and extra beans to maintain the texture while keeping it within the realm of vegan recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro can enhance the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Slaw (Sweet And Sour) for a refreshing contrast. Enjoy it as a cozy dinner or at gatherings with friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Our Favorite Chili contains roughly 460 calories, with 25g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1444mg per serving (63% 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 ground turkey instead of ground chuck?
Yes, ground turkey can be a healthier alternative to ground chuck. It may result in a slightly drier chili, so consider adding a bit more salsa or tomato sauce to maintain moisture.
How can I thicken the chili if it's too watery?
If your chili turns out too watery, you can thicken it by adding a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina, stirring it in and letting it cook a little longer. Alternatively, let it simmer uncovered to evaporate some excess liquid.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld even better. Just store it in the refrigerator after cooking and reheat when ready to serve. It also freezes well for future meals.
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).