Vegetable Chili Medily(Serves 12 People)
A hearty vegetable chili with tender ground beef, beans, and pasta, packed with bold flavors and perfect for feeding a crowd or a family gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- About 1 1/2 hours before serving, in a heavy 10-quart saucepan over medium heat, cook ground beef and onions until the meat loses its pink color; stir often.
- Add the chili beans, red kidney beans, tomato juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper; heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Cook the elbow macaroni separately according to package instructions, then drain.
- Stir the cooked macaroni into the chili before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or using a mix of ground beef and turkey. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also adjust the chili powder to your spice preference for a milder or hotter chili. This dish pairs well with cornbread or a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the vegetable chili in bowls, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor. It goes well with crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side. This hearty meal is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, and you can also pair it with Ruby Wolfe Soup for a delightful meal combination.
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 low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in individual portions until heated through. If the chili thickens, add a splash of water or tomato juice to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Chili Medily(Serves 12 People) contains roughly 223 calories, with 13g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (122% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1089mg per serving (47% 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, making the chili a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator after it cools down and reheat before serving. It can be stored for up to 4 days, making it a great option for meal prep.
What can I substitute for the elbow macaroni?
You can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta types like penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Alternatively, for a low-carb version, consider adding zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a unique twist.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with beans, lentils, or textured vegetable protein. You can also add diced vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and corn for added texture and nutrition, ensuring it remains hearty and filling.
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).