Texas Hot Chili
A hearty Texas hot chili with rich tomato flavor, spicy chili powder, and savory beef, perfect for satisfying cravings and feeding a crowd on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put tomatoes in a large 8-quart or larger pot.
- Cook ground beef in a frying pan until well done.
- Add chopped onion and green or red sweet pepper to the beef.
- Add chili powder to the mixture.
- Add 1/2 cup water to the mixture.
- Add the beef mixture to the tomatoes in the large pot and start heating.
- Add beef bouillon to the tomatoes.
- Add the cooked beef, onion, and pepper mixture to the pot.
- Add chili beans to the mixture.
- Cook for about 30 minutes, or until the mixture is well heated.
- Add Tabasco sauce if desired and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of beef chuck and sirloin. You can also substitute the chili beans with black beans for a different texture. If you prefer a less spicy chili, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the Tabasco sauce entirely. Adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes. For a heartier dish, toss in some corn or diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Texas Hot Chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Butch'S Chili for a chili cook-off, or enjoy it with tortilla chips for a fun twist. A simple green salad can also complement the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Hot Chili contains roughly 326 calories, with 36g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (73% of the Daily Value), iron (66% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% 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 ground meat with plant-based meat alternatives or extra beans and lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon for added flavor, and ensure that the chili powder is free of meat-based ingredients.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat level, add more chili powder or include chopped fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers. You could also mix in a few dashes of cayenne pepper or use a hotter variety of hot sauce instead of Tabasco. Just remember to start with small amounts and taste as you go!
What can I serve with this chili?
This Texas Hot Chili is versatile and can be served on its own or with various sides. For a classic pairing, serve it with cornbread or over baked potatoes. It also goes well with nachos, rice, or topped on tortillas. For a refreshing contrast, consider a side of coleslaw or a mixed green salad.
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).