Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend gathering? Look no further than this Better Homes & Gardens-inspired chili recipe! This hearty and delicious dish is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is your ticket to a satisfying and healthy meal the whole family will love. It's the perfect example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, all while delivering on delicious dishes and homemade cooking. This recipe is truly one of the best recipes out there for a flavorful and satisfying chili.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, avocado
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Brown the meat: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become!
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or avocado.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
- For a deeper flavor: Toast the chili powder and cumin in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes before adding them to the pot. This will enhance their flavor significantly.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder chili, omit it altogether. For a fiery kick, add more!
- Thicken the chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot while it's simmering. Alternatively, you can simmer the chili uncovered for the last 15 minutes of cooking time.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of chopped mushrooms and 1 cup of cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
- White Chili: Use white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans) instead of kidney and pinto beans for a creamy white chili.
- Beef and Bean Chili: Enhance the meaty flavor by adding 1 cup of chopped cooked chuck roast along with the ground beef.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Better Homes & Gardens inspired chili recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the satisfaction of creating a flavorful and hearty meal from scratch! It's a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and a sure-fire hit for your next family dinner. Remember to adapt it to your preferences and enjoy the delicious results!