Party Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices perfect for casual gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown onion, green pepper, and ground beef in a little hot oil.
- Add kidney beans, chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, salt, bay leaf, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Cover the pot.
- Simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
- Add extra bean liquid or water if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or using ground turkey as a leaner alternative to ground beef. If you prefer more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños. You can substitute canned beans for dried ones; just be sure to adjust the cooking time. This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Party Chili with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Easy Chili With Beans for a chili bar at gatherings, allowing guests to customize their bowls with various toppings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Chili contains roughly 483 calories, with 15g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (182% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (95% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1730mg per serving (75% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or by using additional beans and vegetables. You may want to add some extra spices to enhance the flavor since meat adds depth to the dish.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a while to allow some liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mash a portion of the beans or add a tablespoon of cornmeal or flour mixed with water to achieve the desired consistency.
What type of beans work best in chili?
While kidney beans are traditional, you can use any type of beans you prefer or have on hand, such as black beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans. Each type offers a unique texture and flavor, so feel free to mix and match according to your taste.
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).