Zeke'S Chili(Crock-Pot Recipe)
A hearty, flavorful chili perfect for slow cooking, featuring ground beef, beans, and a spicy tomato base, ideal for cozy gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and half of the chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain off the grease from the beef and onions.
- In a crock-pot, combine the cooked beef and onions with kidney beans, tomato, tomato sauce, tabasco sauce, cayenne pepper, chili powder, worcestershire sauce, and salt.
- Use your hands to break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces.
- Cook on the low setting for 8 to 10 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of beer or beef broth to the mixture. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also adjust the heat by using more or less cayenne pepper and tabasco sauce according to your taste. For a different twist, add some corn or bell peppers for extra texture and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or cornbread for a heartwarming meal. For a fun twist, try serving it over spaghetti like Cincinnati Chili, or alongside a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a bowl until hot, stirring occasionally, or warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zeke'S Chili(Crock-Pot Recipe) contains roughly 20 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 551mg per serving (24% 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 lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute like tempeh or tofu. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor of the new ingredients.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
If your chili turns out too spicy, you can mellow the heat by adding a dollop of sour cream, some shredded cheese, or a little sugar to balance the flavors. Another option is to add more diced tomatoes or tomato sauce to dilute the spiciness.
How can I thicken my chili?
To thicken your chili, you can let it simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the beans with a fork and stir them back into the chili, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to achieve the desired thickness.
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).