United States-Southwest Chili
A hearty Southwest chili with ground beef, red beans, and smoky spices, perfect for comforting gatherings and flavorful meals with a bold, southwestern flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef with chopped onion, chopped green pepper, and minced garlic.
- Pour off excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in tomato sauce, red beans, chili powder, salt, and water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika or cayenne pepper in addition to the chili powder. If you're out of red beans, kidney beans or black beans work well as substitutes. Fresh herbs like cilantro can brighten the dish, and you can adjust the salt based on your preference. For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or crumbled tofu.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Southwest Chili with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Stuffed Peppers For Two for a complete dinner experience. Add a side salad for some freshness, or enjoy it with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring halfway for even heating. Chili can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of United States-Southwest Chili contains roughly 347 calories, with 21g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 633mg per serving (28% 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! In fact, chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also incorporate hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance. Remember to adjust your seasoning gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Cornbread is a classic choice, but you can also serve it with rice, baked potatoes, or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, try it with tortilla chips or use it as a topping for nachos.
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).