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A hearty and comforting one-pot meal, this classic Midwest Chili is packed with ground beef, two kinds of beans, and a savory, mildly spicy tomato base. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, it simmers to perfection and is ready for all your favorite toppings.
For 6 servings
Brown Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Bloom the Spices
Combine Ingredients and Simmer
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A hearty and comforting one-pot meal, this classic Midwest Chili is packed with ground beef, two kinds of beans, and a savory, mildly spicy tomato base. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, it simmers to perfection and is ready for all your favorite toppings.
This midwest recipe takes 90 minutes to prepare and yields 6 servings. At 723.08 calories per serving with 49.76g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for dinner or lunch or supper.
Slow Simmer and Serve
Add 1-2 minced jalapeños or a serrano pepper along with the onion and bell pepper. You can also add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper with the other spices.
Omit the ground beef and beef broth. Sauté the vegetables in oil and add an extra can of black beans and a can of corn. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables and spices on the stovetop as directed. Transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Feel free to swap the kidney or pinto beans for black beans, cannellini beans, or great northern beans based on your preference.
The ground beef and beans provide a substantial amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle maintenance, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
With two types of beans, this chili is rich in dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and can contribute to lowering cholesterol.
Ground beef is a great source of heme iron, a type of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is vital for transporting oxygen in the blood and preventing fatigue.
The tomato base of the chili is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases. Cooking tomatoes, as in this chili, actually increases the bioavailability of lycopene.
Midwest Chili can be a balanced and nutritious meal. It's high in protein from the beef and packed with fiber from the beans, which aids digestion and promotes fullness. The tomatoes provide vitamins and antioxidants. To make it healthier, use leaner ground beef (90/10 or higher), opt for low-sodium canned goods, and load up on vegetable toppings.
A 1.5-cup serving of this Midwest Chili contains approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the fat content of the ground beef used. This estimate does not include toppings like cheese or sour cream, which will add extra calories.
The main difference is the ingredients. Texas chili (Chili con Carne) is traditionally made with chunks of beef and a sauce from dried chiles, and crucially, it does not contain beans or tomatoes. Midwest chili is a milder, tomato-based stew with ground beef and plenty of beans.
Yes, this chili freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Classic Midwest toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, crushed saltine or oyster crackers, and sliced green onions. Other great options are diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.