Spicy Chili And Tortilla Strips
A hearty, spicy chili with tender ground beef, sweet corn, and bold flavors, perfect for comfort food lovers and suitable for casual family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add cooked hamburger meat, corn, other vegetables, and potatoes to the tomato puree and tomato paste in a large pot.
- Add hot picante sauce and Ro-Tel sauce to the mixture.
- Simmer the chili until it has cooked down slightly and flavors meld together.
- Serve in bowls topped with shredded cheese and crispy tortilla strips if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to enhance the heat level. You can substitute the hamburger meat with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of corn or include a cornstarch slurry. This dish is versatile, so feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili in bowls topped with shredded cheese, cilantro, or diced avocado for added creaminess. It pairs wonderfully with crispy tortilla strips for a delightful crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a side of Cheese Quesadillas or a fresh salad. This dish also works great as a filling for Spoon Tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but make sure to cover the bowl to prevent splatters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Chili And Tortilla Strips contains roughly 961 calories, with 28g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (74% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 515mg per serving (22% 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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve. It also freezes well, so you can prepare it in bulk and enjoy it later.
What can I use instead of picante sauce?
If you don't have hot picante sauce on hand, you can replace it with salsa or a combination of diced tomatoes and hot sauce to achieve a similar flavor profile. Adjust the heat level according to your preference by adding more or less hot sauce.
Can I add beans to this chili?
Definitely! Beans can be a great addition to this chili. Black beans or kidney beans would complement the flavors nicely. Just drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the pot. This will also increase the protein and fiber content of the dish.
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).