Secret Ingredient Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and mashed potatoes, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown seasoned ground beef and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Add drained kidney beans, stewed tomatoes, and chili mix to the meat mixture.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, then add cooked and mashed potatoes.
- Continue to simmer on low heat for another 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the chili. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also replace kidney beans with black beans for a different taste. If you have leftover mashed potatoes, they can easily be incorporated without cooking them again.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider a side salad or roasted vegetables. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be made ahead of time, similar to the Make Ahead Hamburger recipe.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Secret Ingredient Chili contains roughly 626 calories, with 16g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use other types of beans in this chili?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can experiment with black beans, pinto beans, or even navy beans. Each type will add its unique flavor and texture to the chili, so feel free to mix and match based on your preference.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also incorporate a spicy chili powder or hot sauce to achieve your desired level of spiciness. Taste as you go to ensure it meets your heat preference.
Is this chili suitable for freezing?
Yes, this chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through.
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).