Western Chili
A hearty Western-style chili with ground beef, green peppers, and beans, packed with bold flavors. Perfect for casual dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef and cook green pepper and onion with chili powder until tender.
- Stir to separate the meat.
- Add the remaining ingredients and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring often.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you love beans, feel free to add more, such as black beans or pinto beans. To enhance the flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cumin or smoked paprika. This Western Chili recipe is a great way to use pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Western Chili with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal. For added freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions. This dish also makes a fantastic filling for tacos or burritos, perfect for a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave in a covered bowl until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Western Chili contains roughly 974 calories, with 59g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (140% of the Daily Value), protein (118% of the Daily Value), and iron (98% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2155mg per serving (94% 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 use other types of meat in this chili?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Each will impart a different flavor, so adjust seasonings as needed to maintain the chili's richness.
Is it possible to make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a deliciously blended flavor.
What should I do if I want to make the chili thicker?
If you prefer a thicker chili, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste or let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Another option is to mash some of the kidney beans before adding them to the pot.
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).