Virginia'S Chili
Virginia's Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, tomato sauce, and chili beans, perfect for a comforting meal suitable for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger meat in a skillet.
- Drain the excess fat from the meat.
- Pour the cooked meat into a pan and add water.
- Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes.
- Add tomato sauce, chili seasoning, and chili beans to the mixture.
- Let this mixture cook for about 15 minutes.
- Use a potato masher to mash the mixture while still on the stove.
- Turn the burner to low and simmer for 20 more minutes, stirring often.
- If the mixture becomes too thick, add more water. The chili is best thickened.
- Serve with sliced cheese, sweet pickles, and onions as side dishes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding diced onions and bell peppers when browning the hamburger meat. You can substitute the hamburger with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a spicier chili, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Using fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the dish's freshness. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
Serving Suggestions
Virginia's Chili is best served hot and pairs beautifully with sliced cheese, sweet pickles, and diced onions on the side. For a complete meal, serve it with cornbread or over rice. You can also enjoy it with a side of Layered Lettuce for a refreshing contrast. This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virginia'S Chili contains roughly 399 calories, with 22g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2338mg per serving (102% 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?
Yes, Virginia's Chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors often improve after a day in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove before serving. It’s a fantastic dish for meal prep or for entertaining guests.
How can I make my chili thicker?
To thicken your chili, let it simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce excess liquid. You can also mash some of the beans or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. However, if it gets too thick, remember you can always add more water to reach your desired consistency.
What kind of beans can I use in this recipe?
While the recipe calls for chili beans, you can use other varieties such as black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans. Each will add a unique flavor and texture to your chili. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to the mix.
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).