Spicy Chili(Microwave)

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

A hearty and spicy microwave chili packed with ground beef, beans, and bold chili flavors. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or when craving comfort food with a kick. Its robust taste and simple preparation make it a favorite for spice lovers and busy households alike.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lb. ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1 1/2 to 2 Tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 Tbsp. crushed red pepper
  • 2 (16 oz.) cans chopped tomatoes
  • 1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste
  • 2 (16 oz.) cans kidney beans, drained and slightly rinsed

Instructions

  1. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a covered dish on full power for 8 to 10 minutes, or until all pink is gone. Stir 1 to 2 times while cooking. Drain well.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the chili. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Adjust the chili powder and crushed red pepper according to your spice tolerance. For a thicker consistency, add a bit of cornmeal or masa harina during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spicy chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or the Hamburger Special for a delightful contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave the chili in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spicy Chili(Microwave) contains roughly 1547 calories, with 98g protein, 168g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (222% of the Daily Value), protein (196% of the Daily Value), and iron (145% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2415mg per serving (105% of the Daily Value).

1547 kcal 77% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 98.1g 100% DV
Total Fat 56.1g 72% DV
Carbs 167.6g 61% DV
Fiber 62.2g 100% DV
Sugar 9.3g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2414.6mg 100% DV
Potassium 4165.3mg 89% DV
Cholesterol 161mg 54% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 187.8mcg 21% DV
Vitamin C 68.3mg 76% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 413.3mg 32% DV
Iron 26.1mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it ahead of time, let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for the best taste.

What can I use instead of kidney beans?

If kidney beans aren’t available, you can substitute them with black beans or pinto beans. Both options will still provide a hearty texture and complement the spicy flavors of the chili.

How can I make this chili less spicy?

To reduce the heat, cut back on the chili powder and crushed red pepper. You can also add more canned tomatoes or beans to dilute the spice. A bit of sugar can also balance the heat without adding spiciness.

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).

American recipes → Beef recipes → All recipes →