Station 7'S Chili Fire
A hearty, smoky chili with tender beans and savory barbecue flavor, perfect for casual gatherings or comfort food cravings, appealing to meat lovers and chili enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the beans in a slow cooker for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Mash up the whole tomatoes with a fork.
- Add the cooked beans, mashed tomatoes, hamburger, tomato paste, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and Texas Pete to the slow cooker.
- Cook in the slow cooker for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- The longer it cooks, the better it tastes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions to the mix. If you're looking for a spicy kick, jalapeños or cayenne pepper can be used instead of Texas Pete. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Using fire-roasted tomatoes can enhance the smoky flavor, similar to the taste found in Jeanette'S Hot Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Topping with shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions can elevate the dish. It pairs beautifully with recipes like Cheesy Brunch Pie for a brunch gathering, or serve with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if the chili thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Station 7'S Chili Fire contains roughly 821 calories, with 57g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (208% of the Daily Value), protein (115% of the Daily Value), and iron (114% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 592mg 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 make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the hamburger with lentils, textured vegetable protein, or even more beans. This will maintain the heartiness while catering to vegetarian diets. Also, ensure to use vegetarian-friendly barbecue sauce.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, start with a smaller amount of Texas Pete and gradually increase it to your taste. You can also add milder peppers or a pinch of sugar to balance out the heat if it becomes too spicy.
Is there a way to make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance and let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of water if necessary for the right consistency.
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).