Tommy'S Famous Chili Recipe
Tommy's Famous Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish with tender ground beef, fresh peppers and onions, and rich tomato-based seasonings, perfect for comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up bell peppers and onions very finely.
- Melt 1 stick of margarine in a frying pan and add the peppers and onions, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add half a package of chili season mix, half a package of taco mix, and half a cup of water.
- Cover and cook on low heat until flavors meld and vegetables are tender.
- In a large pot, cook ground beef until browned, then add chili beans, tomato soup, chili powder, and catsup.
- Combine the cooked beef mixture with the vegetable mixture and simmer for additional flavor blending.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato soup for a fresher taste. If you want a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream before serving. This chili pairs excellently with cornbread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, diced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a crunchy texture. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. Also, try it as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos for a delicious twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a bowl, covered, for 2-3 minutes until heated through. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tommy'S Famous Chili Recipe contains roughly 818 calories, with 26g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 freeze the chili for later use?
Yes, this chili freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños for heat. Alternatively, use mild chili beans and reduce the amount of taco mix. If you accidentally make it too spicy, add a bit of sugar or honey to balance the heat.
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be used as alternatives to ground beef. For a lighter option, consider using lean ground beef or a plant-based substitute. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked.
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).