Pat'S Chili
A hearty, spicy chili packed with beans, tomatoes, and vegetables, perfect for satisfying a crowd or cozy family dinner with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground chuck with chopped onion and green pepper.
- Add remaining ingredients including chili beans, kidney beans, mushrooms, whole tomatoes, tomato juice, crushed red pepper, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer on stove or in a crock-pot for 3 to 4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of beer. If you're looking to reduce the heat, use less crushed red pepper, or opt for mild chili powder. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Canned beans can also be swapped with dried beans, just ensure they are soaked and cooked beforehand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pat's Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Green Beans And Onion or cornbread for a comforting meal. Consider offering tortilla chips or warm tortillas on the side for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears too thick. Microwave in short intervals, stirring often until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pat'S Chili contains roughly 980 calories, with 69g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (138% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (137% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (133% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2118mg per serving (92% 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?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground chuck with a mix of lentils or additional beans. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots to enhance the texture and flavor of the chili.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the chili?
To adjust the spiciness, start by adding a smaller amount of crushed red pepper and chili powder, then taste as you cook. You can always add more heat later, but it's harder to reduce it once it's in. Consider serving with a side of sour cream to help temper the spice if needed.
What should I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out too thick, simply stir in a little water or additional tomato juice until you reach your desired consistency. It's best to add liquid gradually to avoid making it too soupy. This will help you achieve the perfect chili texture.
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).