Wisconsin Chili
A hearty, flavorful Wisconsin Chili with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and pasta, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet and drain excess fat.
- In a large Dutch oven, combine stewed tomatoes, tomato paste, drained pinto beans, cooked ground beef, and elbow macaroni.
- Add 1 to 2 cans of water to reach desired consistency.
- Season with pepper and chili powder to taste.
- Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions and garlic while browning the ground beef. If you're short on time, you can use canned beans and pre-cooked macaroni to speed up the process. Feel free to adjust the chili powder and pepper levels to suit your heat preference. For a twist, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika. This recipe is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a comforting option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Wisconsin Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a side of Easy Bisquick Lasagne Squares for a hearty dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Wisconsin Chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water if it thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wisconsin Chili contains roughly 173 calories, with 11g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (161% of the Daily Value), potassium (35% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 719mg per serving (31% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or lentils. Additionally, ensure you use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. Beans and pasta will still provide a hearty texture, making it satisfying without the meat.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the spice level, add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers while cooking the ground beef. You can also incorporate cayenne pepper or additional chili powder to taste. For a smoky flavor, consider adding chipotle in adobo sauce. Just be careful to adjust the seasonings gradually to avoid overwhelming the dish.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, brown the ground beef and drain the fat before adding it to the slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients, including the macaroni, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just add the macaroni in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
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).