Tex'S Chili
A hearty Tex-Mex chili with rich tomato flavors, spicy kick, and tender beans, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck in a Dutch oven.
- Add chopped garlic, finely chopped onion, salt, and cumin seed.
- Cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in chili powder.
- Add tomato sauce and Ro-Tel tomatoes.
- Add water and simmer, covered, over low heat for 30 minutes.
- Add 2 to 3 cans of red kidney beans.
- Cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or jalapeños. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the water or add more beans. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a mix of beans instead of meat. Pair this dish beautifully with sides like Homemade Salsa For Canning or tortillas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Tex's Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping. You might also consider serving it alongside Basic Salsa and tortillas to create a complete meal that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tex'S Chili contains roughly 373 calories, with 21g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1820mg per serving (79% 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?
Absolutely! Tex's Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving for a delicious, time-saving meal.
Is there a way to make this chili spicier?
Yes! To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking. You can also experiment with different chili powders, such as chipotle for a smoky flavor or cayenne pepper for additional heat.
Can I freeze Tex's Chili?
Yes, Tex's Chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or microwave until heated through.
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).