Sun River Sensation-Chili
A hearty chili casserole featuring bacon, green peppers, onions, beans, and beef, simmered with rich spices and burgundy for a flavorful, satisfying meal perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer green peppers, sweet onions, green onions, and bacon for 20 minutes.
- Combine kidney beans, chili con carne without beans, ketchup, and chili sauce in a large casserole dish.
- Add the cooked bacon mixture to the casserole and mix well.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and add one pint of burgundy wine.
- Return to oven and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
- Add the cooked ground hamburger to the casserole and stir to combine before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try using smoked bacon or add a dash of liquid smoke. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground hamburger with lentils or a meat alternative. Adjust the spice level with your favorite chili powder or hot sauce. Additionally, for a deeper flavor, let the chili sit overnight before reheating, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Perfect Potato Soup for a complete dinner. Enjoy with tortilla chips for a crunchy side or alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sun River Sensation-Chili contains roughly 548 calories, with 27g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (395% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 648mg per serving (28% 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 use different types of beans in this chili?
Absolutely! You can substitute red kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure any beans you use are properly cooked and drained before adding them to the casserole.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can also use spicier chili sauce instead of the regular variety. For a unique twist, include a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce when serving.
Is it necessary to add the burgundy wine?
The burgundy wine adds depth and richness to the chili, enhancing the overall flavor. However, if you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with beef broth or a splash of vinegar for acidity. Just remember, it may alter the final taste slightly.
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).