Shortcut Chili Con Carne
A hearty, flavorful chili con carne with tender ground beef, kidney beans, and bold spices, perfect for a quick family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet or slow-cooking pot with browning unit, break up the ground beef with a fork and cook until lightly browned.
- Pour off excess fat.
- In the slow-cooking pot, combine the cooked meat with chopped onion, salt, tomato sauce, kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and bay leaf.
- Cover and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use black beans instead of kidney beans for a different flavor profile. Adjust the chili powder to your taste, especially if you plan to serve it alongside milder dishes like a Reuben Sandwich Spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Shortcut Chili Con Carne with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad or tortilla chips for crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it with dishes from American recipes like a savory Pancake Burger.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, ensuring it’s evenly heated. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shortcut Chili Con Carne contains roughly 339 calories, with 22g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), iron (52% of the Daily Value), and protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1614mg per serving (70% 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 meat for this chili?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly, so adjust the seasonings accordingly to maintain the desired taste. You can also experiment with different meats like pork or sausage for added depth.
How can I thicken my chili if it's too watery?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mixing in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water can help. Another option is to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to create a creamier texture.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili a day ahead and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving. This dish is perfect for meal prep, and you can also double the recipe for gatherings or to enjoy throughout the week.
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).