Thomas'S Chili
A hearty chili spaghetti dish packed with bold spices, ground beef, and tender pasta, perfect for satisfying family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix tomato juice and tomato puree in a large kettle. Add chili powder, black pepper, salt, paprika, and cinnamon. Mix and heat to almost a boil.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, drain off the grease, and add to the kettle.
- In the same skillet, cook the chopped onion until half done, drain, and add to the kettle.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and add kidney beans.
- Cook spaghetti until al dente, then drain.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the kettle, turn off heat, and let sit for 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Thomas's Chili, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños for extra heat. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked ground beef can expedite the process. For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, especially if you prefer more spice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Thomas's Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a delightful finish. It pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or a fresh salad like Covered Bridge Potato Salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider adding a side of Homemade Pork Sausage to complement the chili's flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the chili thickens, add a splash of water or tomato juice to reach your desired consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thomas'S Chili contains roughly 2075 calories, with 43g protein, 265g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (150% of the Daily Value), iron (108% of the Daily Value), and protein (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2533mg per serving (110% 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?
Yes, Thomas's Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove before serving, adding a bit of water or tomato juice if it becomes too thick.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To kick up the heat in Thomas's Chili, add more chili powder or include diced fresh jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes during cooking. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for guests to customize their spice levels.
What can I serve with chili?
Thomas's Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad such as Fruit And Vegetable Salad. For a filling meal, consider serving it with a side of Bill's Baked Beans, as the sweetness complements the chili’s spice.
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).