Paula'S Chili And Beans
Paula's Chili and Beans offers a hearty, flavorful combination of ground beef, baked beans, and savory seasonings. Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings, its rich taste and simple preparation make it a comforting choice for those craving a classic, satisfying chili-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a skillet, brown the hamburger until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the browned hamburger, pork and beans, dry onion soup mix, catsup, water, mustard, vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier chili, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños for heat. If you prefer a sweeter chili, you can increase the brown sugar or add a splash of maple syrup. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Pairing with cornbread or tortilla chips can enhance the meal's appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, diced onions, or sour cream for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it over hot dogs for a homemade hot dog chili experience. This dish is great for gatherings and can easily be multiplied for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a bowl, stirring occasionally, or warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If you want to freeze it, let the chili cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paula'S Chili And Beans contains roughly 476 calories, with 6g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1071mg per serving (47% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, this chili can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the recipe, allow it to cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even more, enhancing the overall taste.
Can I use canned beans instead of pork and beans?
Absolutely! You can substitute with canned kidney beans or black beans for a different flavor profile. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the mixture. This will maintain the texture and ensure the chili remains hearty and satisfying.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To spice up the chili, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper during the mixing stage. You can also include a few dashes of hot sauce for an extra kick. If you enjoy smoky flavors, consider adding some smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
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).