Pedro Special
A hearty, flavorful chili beef dish with rich tomato sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and satisfying lunch or dinner options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a skillet; drain excess grease.
- Stir in tomato sauce, chili powder, and oregano; simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. If you don't have chili powder, a blend of paprika and cumin can work as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, let it simmer longer. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. This dish can be served as a hearty main or as part of a larger spread with other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pedro Special over a bed of corn chips for a delicious twist, topped with chopped lettuce and shredded cheese for added texture. It pairs beautifully with Beef Chili Dip or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh salad. Consider adding some sour cream or guacamole for extra creaminess. This dish is perfect for game days or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent burning. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the chili in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pedro Special contains roughly 1581 calories, with 22g protein, 182g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (85% of the Daily Value), iron (79% of the Daily Value), and calcium (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% 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 the Pedro Special ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Pedro Special a day in advance. Simply follow the cooking instructions and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving. This makes it ideal for meal prep or serving at gatherings.
What can I use instead of kidney beans?
If you don't have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans are great alternatives and will complement the flavors well. You can also use canned chili beans for a different texture and taste. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the recipe.
How spicy is the Pedro Special?
The spice level of the Pedro Special can be adjusted based on your preference. The chili powder provides a mild heat, but you can increase the spice by adding more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce. Taste it as you go to achieve your desired level of heat.
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).