Pastor'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, beans, and smoky spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger and chopped onion in a large skillet or saucepan; drain excess fat.
- Add the cooked meat and onion to a large saucepan with the tomato juice and 1 can of water.
- Stir in the chili hot beans and all spices except for cayenne pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until it begins to thicken, about 20-30 minutes.
- Add cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon at a time, adjusting to your preferred level of spiciness.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and pork; this adds depth to the chili. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or lentils can be good substitutes for the hamburger. For added texture, throw in diced bell peppers or corn. Adjust the spices to your liking; if you're not fond of heat, skip the cayenne altogether. This recipe is reminiscent of hearty American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side of Marcy'S Potatoes for a comforting meal. For a more casual gathering, provide tortilla chips for dipping. This dish is perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pastor'S Chili contains roughly 1365 calories, with 56g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (178% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (169% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2758mg per serving (120% 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 Pastor's Chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just prepare it as directed and let it cool before storing it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to serve.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Pastor's Chili, replace the hamburger with a mix of beans like black beans, kidney beans, and lentils. You can also add extra vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
What can I serve with Pastor's Chili?
Besides cornbread, consider serving it with a fresh green salad or a side of Cheese And Ham Dip for added variety. You can also offer toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips to customize each bowl.
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).