Very Carne Chile

Prep: 10 min Cook: 210 min Cuisine: Mexican

A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground beef, kidney beans, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family gatherings or casual dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. ground round
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 3 (14 1/2 oz.) cans kidney beans
  • 1 1/2 (14 1/2 oz.) cans tomatoes
  • 1 small can tomato paste
  • 4 or 5 Tbsp. chili powder (depending on strength)
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp. black pepper
  • 1 cup water

Instructions

  1. Trim fat from the ground round.
  2. Set oven to 300°F (150°C).
  3. Put the ground round in a large roaster.
  4. Cook uncovered for 3 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground meats, such as beef and pork. You can substitute kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans if desired. Adjust the chili powder to your taste; if you prefer a milder dish, start with less and add more as needed. Adding a splash of Southwestern Chili Sauce can enhance the depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Very Carne Chile with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Topping with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions adds a delightful creaminess. This dish pairs beautifully with Salsa Mold for a refreshing side. For a complete dinner, consider serving with a side salad or tortilla chips.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Very Carne Chile in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring even heating and avoiding overcooking.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Very Carne Chile contains roughly 837 calories, with 86g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (171% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (102% of the Daily Value), and iron (93% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2348mg per serving (102% of the Daily Value).

837 kcal 42% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 85.5g 100% DV
Total Fat 26.7g 34% DV
Carbs 70.6g 26% DV
Fiber 28.7g 100% DV
Sugar 9.7g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2347.9mg 100% DV
Potassium 2513.8mg 53% DV
Cholesterol 195.1mg 65% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 316.2mcg 35% DV
Vitamin C 31.8mg 35% DV
Calcium 283.2mg 22% DV
Iron 16.7mg 93% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat

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 recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the ground round with a plant-based meat substitute or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. Ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly, and you'll have a delicious vegan version of Very Carne Chile.

What can I serve with Very Carne Chile?

Very Carne Chile pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with warm tortillas, cornbread, or a simple green salad. For added texture, serve with tortilla chips or over rice. It also goes well with Mexican recipes like Homemade Taco Seasoning for a full Mexican-themed meal.

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).

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