Sarah'S Momma'S Simple Chili
A hearty, comforting chili brimming with savory ground beef, tomato sauce, and a mix of kidney beans—perfect for family dinners or game nights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown 1 lb. ground beef in a large frying pan and drain the grease.
- Add 2 cans tomato sauce, 1 can small diced tomatoes, 2 cans light red kidney beans, 1 can dark red kidney beans, and 1/2 packet mild chili seasoning to the beef.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili. If you're looking to make it vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Feel free to use different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, instead of the kidney beans for a twist. This chili can also be served over rice for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips, making it a great choice for a cozy meal. You can also serve it as a topping for baked potatoes or use it in dishes like Chili In Pastry Cups for a fun appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen, it can last for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Always ensure it's heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sarah'S Momma'S Simple Chili contains roughly 880 calories, with 57g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (115% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), and iron (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2065mg per serving (90% 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 advance?
Yes, this chili can be made in advance and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just prepare it as instructed and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to serve.
What can I serve with this chili?
This chili pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. For a heartier meal, top it on baked potatoes or serve with a fresh salad. You could also explore pairing it with dishes like Grandma'S Barbecue(Sloppy Joes) for a fun mix of flavors.
Can I freeze the chili?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Just let it cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.
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).