The Best Chili In Texas

Prep: 10 min Cook: 45 min Cuisine: American

A hearty Texas-style chili featuring tender sirloin, beans, and a blend of spices, perfect for gatherings and cold weather cravings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 to 1 1/2 lb. prime sirloin, cubed
  • 2 cans red kidney beans or pinto beans
  • 3 cans stewed tomatoes, chopped
  • 3 tsp. beef bouillon
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 Tbsp. to 1/4 c. red chili powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the sirloin and chopped onion in 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  2. Add the beans, chopped stewed tomatoes with juice, and beef bouillon to the skillet.
  3. Simmer the mixture for 45 minutes or until desired thickness.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of minced garlic or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon. You can also try using different beans, like black beans, for a unique twist. Adjust the red chili powder to match your heat preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chili with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Golden Grilled Ham as a complementary dish. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a side salad or tortilla chips.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of The Best Chili In Texas contains roughly 840 calories, with 13g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1227mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).

840 kcal 42% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.2g 26% DV
Total Fat 43g 55% DV
Carbs 103.4g 38% DV
Fiber 7.2g 26% DV
Sugar 16.1g 32% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1226.5mg 53% DV
Potassium 444.9mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.5mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 11.8mg 13% DV
Calcium 98.9mg 8% DV
Iron 4mg 22% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 ground beef instead of sirloin for this chili?

Yes, you can absolutely use ground beef in place of cubed sirloin. Brown the ground beef with the onion until fully cooked, then proceed with the recipe as directed. This substitution will yield a slightly different texture but will still result in a delicious chili.

How can I make this chili spicier?

To increase the spiciness of your chili, add more red chili powder or incorporate fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also add a few dashes of hot sauce or chipotle in adobo for a smoky heat. Taste as you go to achieve your desired level of spice.

What can I serve with chili besides cornbread?

In addition to cornbread, consider serving your chili with tortilla chips, a side of coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. For a filling option, serve it over baked potatoes or rice. Pairing with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade can balance out the richness of the chili.

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).

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