Real Texas Chili(No Heartburn)

Cook: 75 min Cuisine: American

A hearty, flavorful Texas chili with bold spices and beef, perfect for satisfying gatherings or comforting weeknight dinners. Customizable with optional beans for added texture.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. ground beef
  • 3 Tbsp. vegetable oil
  • 2 to 3 cloves garlic
  • 4 to 5 Tbsp. chili powder
  • 2 tsp. ground cumin
  • 3 Tbsp. flour
  • 1 Tbsp. leaf oregano
  • 2 cans beef broth (13 3/4 oz.)
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 1 can chili beans
  • 1 can refried beans

Instructions

  1. In a 4-quart pot, cook ground beef until it changes color but does not brown.
  2. Lower the heat.
  3. Stir in garlic.
  4. Combine chili powder, cumin, and flour.
  5. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the meat.
  6. Add 1 1/2 cans of beef broth and stir well.
  7. Add salt and pepper.
  8. Bring to a boil.
  9. Reduce heat and simmer about 30 minutes, stirring frequently.
  10. Add the remaining broth and cook for 15 minutes more.
  11. Add the refried beans and chili beans.
  12. If the chili is too thick, add a little water and cook for 15 minutes more.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance flavor, you can experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or chipotle powder for heat. If you're short on time, consider using pre-minced garlic or even garlic powder as a substitute. For a thicker consistency, you can mash the chili beans before adding them. This recipe can easily be adapted for a vegetarian version by substituting ground beef with a plant-based alternative or using additional beans.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Texas chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some tortilla chips for a complete meal experience. It also pairs beautifully with Ground Beef-Cheese Dip for a fun appetizer.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the consistency. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Real Texas Chili(No Heartburn) contains roughly 927 calories, with 27g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (99% of the Daily Value), iron (81% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

927 kcal 46% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 26.6g 53% DV
Total Fat 63.9g 82% DV
Carbs 68.7g 25% DV
Fiber 19.1g 68% DV
Sugar 2.7g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1658.6mg 35% DV
Cholesterol 76mg 25% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 895.4mcg 99% DV
Vitamin C 44.3mg 49% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 215.5mg 17% DV
Iron 14.5mg 81% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Wheat/Gluten

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?

Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving. It's perfect for meal prep or gatherings, making it a great option for busy weeks.

How spicy is this chili?

You can also serve hot sauce on the side for those who prefer a spicier kick.

What can I serve with this chili?

This Texas chili is very versatile and can be paired with various sides. Some popular options include cornbread, rice, or baked potatoes. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for dipping. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad on the side.

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).

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