Savory Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, perfect for cozy gatherings and satisfying meals with bold spices and savory richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onions together in a large pot.
- Drain off excess fat from the beef and onions.
- Stir in the drained kidney beans, canned tomatoes, salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste.
- Simmer the chili for several hours to develop flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. To add some heat, include jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also substitute canned beans with cooked dried beans for a fresher taste. For a twist, try adding corn for sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the savory chili hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a hearty dinner, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or some tortilla chips. Don't forget to check out American recipes for more delicious options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place the chili in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. When reheating, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave, ensuring it’s heated evenly throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Chili contains roughly 879 calories, with 37g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (73% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1085mg per serving (47% 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?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, brown the beef and onions first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a deliciously tender chili.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a mix of lentils and mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of water, and ensure your beans are canned without meat additives. This will still give you a rich and satisfying chili experience.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover chili can be used in various ways! Try it over baked potatoes, as a filling for stuffed bell peppers, or even as a topping for nachos. It can also be mixed into pasta for a chili mac dish. The possibilities are endless!
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).