Wanda'S Original Beanless Chili
A hearty, flavorful beanless chili with rich tomato and beef flavors, perfect for feeding a large family or gathering with bold, savory notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Pour the browned beef and onions into a large (5-quart) saucepan.
- Add tomato juice, tomato sauce, bay leaves, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve hot, ideal for a large family gathering.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the skillet when browning the beef and onions. If you're looking for a milder chili, reduce the chili powder or use a mild variety. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner version or add canned diced tomatoes for extra texture. Adjust salt to taste based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This chili is perfect for serving at large family gatherings. Pair it with cornbread or crusty bread for a hearty meal. For added flavor, top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It also goes well with a side of rice or a fresh green salad, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wanda'S Original Beanless Chili contains roughly 2344 calories, with 113g protein, 269g carbohydrates, and 138g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (254% of the Daily Value), protein (226% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
How spicy is this chili?
The spiciness of this chili can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder you use. For a milder chili, start with 2 tablespoons and taste before adding more. You can also add ingredients like sour cream or avocado to balance the heat when serving.
What can I serve with beanless chili?
Beanless chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of creamy coleslaw or over rice. You can also explore other beef recipes like Hearty Hamburger Pie for a satisfying dinner.
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).