"Red" Route 66 Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef and rich tomato sauce, perfect for satisfying cravings at gatherings or casual family dinners with a classic American taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble hamburger meat into a covered pan.
- Add tomato sauce, chili seasoning, and water.
- Bring to a boil and let simmer for 3 hours.
- When nearly done, remove lid and let boil down to proper consistency.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with side dishes of Ranch Style beans and diced onion.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the hamburger meat before adding other ingredients. If you prefer a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a quicker version, use canned chili beans instead of hamburger. This chili pairs beautifully with Ranch Style beans for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with diced onions for added crunch. It goes great with cornbread or over a bed of rice. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Stephen's Baked Beans and a side of Hot Green Beans. This chili is also excellent for gatherings, offering a comforting option that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Red" Route 66 Chili contains roughly 80 calories, with 3g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 731mg per serving (32% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it a perfect option for meal prep.
What can I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili becomes too thick during cooking, simply add a bit of water or broth and stir until you reach the desired consistency. A splash of tomato juice can also add flavor while thinning it out. Adjust seasoning as needed after adding liquid.
What are some good toppings for chili?
Popular toppings for chili include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, and jalapeños. You can also add crushed tortilla chips for crunch. Experiment with toppings to find your favorite combination, and feel free to drizzle with hot sauce for an extra kick!
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).