Sam'S Easy Chilli
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring tender beef, kidney beans, and a tangy tomato base, perfect for casual gatherings and comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain the beef.
- Add kidney beans, ketchup, tomato juice, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to the beef.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 to 2 hours until flavors meld and the chili thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions and garlic while browning the beef. You can substitute the kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. If the mixture is too thick, add more tomato juice gradually until you reach your desired consistency. For a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or chili powder to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like cornbread or even a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. Enjoy it at your next gathering or game day celebration!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sam'S Easy Chilli contains roughly 1460 calories, with 83g protein, 277g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (306% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (184% of the Daily Value), and protein (166% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1350mg per serving (59% 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 a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef first, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally, for a flavorful and hearty chili.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To elevate the heat level, consider adding diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce. You can also use spicy sausage in place of some of the beef for an extra kick. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of this chili?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian chili, substitute the beef with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, and chopped bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of tomato juice for added depth of flavor. This will create a delicious, satisfying dish without the meat.
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).