Quick White Corn Chili
A quick and hearty white corn chili with ground beef, tomatoes, and beans, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner for those craving comfort food with a kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the lean ground beef in a large saucepan; drain excess fat.
- Add drained white corn, diced tomatoes with garlic and onions, salsa, and drained kidney beans to the saucepan.
- Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve topped with shredded Cheddar cheese and sliced green onions, if desired.
- Enjoy with tortilla chips or warm bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans would work well too. To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cumin or coriander. Serve with shredded Cheddar cheese for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
This chili is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with tortilla chips or warm bread. Top with sliced green onions and shredded Cheddar cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Mexicali Crock-Pot Pie or as a side for Taco Ranch Stew, making a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick White Corn Chili contains roughly 843 calories, with 47g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (94% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (89% of the Daily Value), and iron (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1276mg per serving (55% 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 omitting the ground beef and replacing it with additional beans or tofu. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition.
How can I thicken the chili if it's too runny?
If your chili is too runny, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water, or add crushed tortilla chips for a flavorful thickener.
What can I serve with this chili?
This chili pairs well with a variety of sides such as cornbread, rice, or a fresh green salad. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Holiday Nachos for a festive touch or as a filling for Salsa Stuffed Peppers.
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).