Texas Braggin' Chili
A hearty Texas-style chili packed with ground beef, chili powder, garlic, and tomato flavors, perfect for cold nights and chili lovers seeking bold, smoky taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ground beef and chopped onion until browned.
- Add chili powder and comino seed, and cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add tomato paste and mix well.
- Pour in tomato juice or V-8 to make the mixture soupy.
- Add optional Ranch Style beans and bouillon beef cubes.
- Simmer the chili on low heat for several hours, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and it thickens.
- Serve hot, topped with a scoop of rice and a side of crushed jalapenos or red pepper for extra flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you prefer a spicier chili, throw in some diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, or use black beans instead of Ranch Style beans for a different texture. This dish is great for meal prep and pairs beautifully with Stuffed Bell Peppers(For Two).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Texas Braggin' Chili hot, ideally with a scoop of fluffy rice to absorb the flavors. Garnish with crushed jalapenos or red pepper for an extra kick. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a side of Ellie'S Vegetable Soup for a nutritious balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, pour the cooled chili into freezer-safe bags, removing excess air, and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Braggin' Chili contains roughly 64 calories, with 3g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (18% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making chili a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just refrigerate it after cooking, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The longer it sits, the better it tastes.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a mix of beans, such as black beans and kidney beans, to maintain heartiness.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, start with a smaller amount of chili powder and add more gradually until it reaches your desired heat. You can also include fresh or pickled jalapenos for extra spice, or add a splash of hot sauce right before serving.
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).