Speedy Chili

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Speedy Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, tomatoes, and spices for a satisfying meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a comforting blend of savory and spicy notes that appeal to both adults and kids alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1/8 tsp. pepper
  • 3 to 4 Tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 c. water

Instructions

  1. Combine beef, onion, and garlic in a Dutch oven; cook until beef is browned, stirring to crumble.
  2. Drain off drippings.
  3. Add remaining ingredients; cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also experiment with different beans like kidney or black beans for added texture and flavor. Remember to adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference. This chili recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this speedy chili with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top for extra creaminess. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. Consider adding a side salad for freshness. You can also use it as a filling for burritos or tacos, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Browse more American recipes for delicious ideas.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway. For longer storage, freeze the chili for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Speedy Chili contains roughly 266 calories, with 17g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2244mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).

266 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 16.8g 34% DV
Total Fat 17.8g 23% DV
Carbs 13.9g 5% DV
Fiber 9.1g 33% DV
Sugar 3.3g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2243.5mg 98% DV
Potassium 788.3mg 17% DV
Cholesterol 53.3mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 244.8mcg 27% DV
Vitamin C 94mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 92.1mg 7% DV
Iron 4.6mg 26% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly High-fiber Under 400 cal

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?

Absolutely! Making the chili a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. It also freezes well, so you can prepare a larger batch and enjoy it later.

What can I serve with this chili?

This chili is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with cornbread, rice, or over nachos. Toppings like avocado, fresh cilantro, or jalapeños add a nice touch. You could also pair it with a simple green salad.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To control the spice level, start with less chili powder and gradually add more to taste. You can also include mild spices or add a bit of sugar to balance out the heat. If you want it spicier, consider adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your desired heat level.

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).

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