Spicy Tennessee Chili
A hearty, spicy chili with ground beef, beans, and bold seasonings, perfect for comforting gatherings and fans of fiery, flavorful dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil until hot; add chopped onion.
- Cook 2 to 3 minutes until onion is softened.
- Add lean ground beef; cook for 3 to 4 minutes until browned.
- Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, salt, cayenne pepper, and ground cinnamon.
- Add undrained whole tomatoes to the mixture.
- Reduce heat to low; cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring in drained and rinsed red kidney beans.
- Simmer the chili for 1 hour.
- Serve hot with grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste; adding smoked paprika can enhance the flavor. For a thicker chili, let it simmer longer or mash some of the beans before adding them.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili hot, topped with grated cheese and a dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with Chili Cornbread Pie or crusty bread for dipping. Consider a side of Texas Style Beans for a complete meal or a fresh salad to lighten things up. Enjoy with friends for a cozy gathering or game day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Tennessee Chili contains roughly 1234 calories, with 52g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (104% of the Daily Value), iron (77% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1279mg per serving (56% 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?
Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more cayenne pepper or include fresh chopped serrano or habanero peppers. You could also use a spicier chili powder blend. Taste as you go to achieve your desired heat level.
What are some good garnishes for this chili?
Great garnishes include shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Avocado slices or jalapeño slices can also add a nice touch. For a unique twist, try adding crumbled tortilla chips or a dollop of guacamole.
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).