Quick-Cook Chili
A quick and hearty chili featuring ground beef, pinto beans, and tomato soup, seasoned with chili powder—a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook beef and onion in a large skillet until beef is browned and onion is tender.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Stir in pinto beans, tomato soup, and chili powder.
- Cover the skillet.
- Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. If you're short on time, canned beans can be used instead of cooked ones. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to your taste, similar to how you might customize a Boomer Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Quick-Cook Chili with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions add great flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Beef Stew Supreme for a comforting dinner spread. Consider serving with tortilla chips for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick-Cook Chili contains roughly 286 calories, with 12g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 927mg per serving (40% 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?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or crumbled tofu. Additionally, ensure that the tomato soup you use is vegetarian-friendly. The pinto beans will still provide protein and texture.
How can I thicken the chili?
If you prefer a thicker chili, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer time to allow some liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the chili, cooking for a few more minutes until thickened.
What can I serve with the chili?
In addition to cornbread and rice, consider serving fresh salads or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also offer a selection of toppings such as avocado slices, cilantro, or hot sauce to cater to different tastes.
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).