Simple Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with tender ground beef, spicy beans, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting dinners or casual gatherings with customizable toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add Chili-O seasoning, canned hot beans, and diced tomatoes to the beef.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Optional: Top with chopped onions and grated cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste or some chopped bell peppers to the chili. If you prefer a spicier dish, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef to lighten the dish. For a vegetarian version, use canned lentils instead of meat and vegetable broth instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chili with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheddarburger Loaf for a comforting dinner. Garnish with fresh chopped onions, cilantro, or shredded cheese for added flavor. Consider a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Freezing is also an option; it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Chili contains roughly 555 calories, with 35g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (70% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 596mg per serving (26% 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! You can substitute or mix in other beans like black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans based on your preference. Each type of bean will add its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
How can I make this chili less spicy?
To reduce the spiciness, opt for mild diced tomatoes and use fewer or milder types of beans. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt when serving to help balance the heat.
Is there a way to cook this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully.
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).