Quick And Easy Chili With A Zip
A hearty, flavorful chili packed with ground pork and beef, enriched with beans, tomatoes, and smoky chili peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering, its robust flavors and simple preparation make it a crowd-pleaser for chili lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground pork and ground beef in a large skillet or pot, then drain the excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, diced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the meat and cook until wilted.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, pinto beans, kidney beans, chopped chili peppers, chili seasoning mix, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours to develop flavors.
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings, and enjoy with crackers or bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more chopped chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the beans or add a tablespoon of tomato paste. This chili can also be made vegetarian by using plant-based meat substitutes and additional vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with crackers or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or cornbread. This chili also works well as a filling for tacos or served over rice for a hearty dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Chili With A Zip contains roughly 764 calories, with 52g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (105% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and iron (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2577mg per serving (112% 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 in advance?
Yes, this chili develops even more flavor when made in advance. Prepare it a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. The next day, simply reheat and enjoy! Making it in advance is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the chili?
To adjust the spiciness, you can increase or decrease the amount of chopped chili peppers or add hot sauce to taste. If you want a milder chili, use fewer peppers or choose a mild variety. Remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired heat level.
What toppings go well with this chili?
Popular toppings for chili include shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. You can also add avocado slices or diced onions for extra flavor. This chili is versatile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings.
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).