Zesty Chili
A hearty, spicy chili packed with ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, perfect for casual gatherings and comfort food lovers craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onion and green pepper.
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Add chili beans, stewed tomatoes, and tomato juice to the meat mixture.
- Adjust the amount of tomato juice for desired chili consistency, using less for thicker chili.
- Add chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the chili for 1 hour.
- Serve hot topped with shredded Cheddar cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use canned black beans and lentils in place of the meat. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference to ensure a balanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this zesty chili hot, topped with shredded Cheddar cheese for extra richness. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. Consider serving a side of Ranger Rice With Beef for a hearty combination or a simple green salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of tomato juice if the chili thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zesty Chili contains roughly 135 calories, with 5g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 735mg per serving (32% 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?
Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance, store in the fridge, and reheat when you're ready to serve. Just be sure to adjust the consistency with tomato juice if needed.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian chili. The cooking times remain the same, but be aware that the flavor profile will slightly differ based on your choice.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water can help achieve a thicker consistency without altering the flavor.
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).