Tom'S Favorite Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and spices, perfect for cozy dinners and satisfying a crowd with bold, warming flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic.
- Add salt, pepper, stewed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, tomato juice, and chili powder.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 30 minutes.
- Enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding bell peppers or jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you're short on time, canned beans can be used instead of dried. Adjust the chili powder to your taste to make it milder or spicier. This chili pairs well with cornbread or a side of Baked Beans(In A Crock-Pot).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It goes well with tortilla chips or a side of rice. Consider serving it alongside Skillet Hash or cornbread for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tom'S Favorite Chili contains roughly 548 calories, with 34g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (271% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (151% of the Daily Value), and iron (77% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 982mg per serving (43% 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 in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef, onion, and garlic first, then transfer to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a delicious, hands-off meal.
What can I add to make it vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a mixture of lentils and chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of tomato juice for a depth of flavor. This way, you can enjoy a hearty, meat-free version of this classic dish.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the chili as it cooks. This will help achieve the desired consistency without altering the flavor.
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).