Skillet Chili Recipe

Name: Skillet Chili
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds lean ground beef; 1 onion, finely diced; 0.25 cup chopped green bell pepper; 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce; 6 ounces tomato paste; 1 (16 ounce) can chili beans, drained; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce; 0.5 teaspoon seasoning salt; 0.5 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper; 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder

Cook Time: 70 minutes

Ingredients

1 pounds lean ground beef
1 onion, finely diced
cup chopped green bell pepper
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
6 ounces tomato paste
1 (16 ounce) can chili beans, drained
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
teaspoon seasoning salt
teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

Place the ground beef in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until evenly browned.
Drain any excess fat and crumble the beef.
Stir in the diced onion, chopped green pepper, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and chili beans.
Season with chili powder, hot sauce, seasoning salt, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture. Stir occasionally and cook for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. The chili is best when cooked for longer, but you can adjust the cooking time to your preference.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 417
Total Fat: 25g (32% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 10g (48% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 85mg (28% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1098mg (48% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 25g (9% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 7g (23% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 10g
Protein: 27g (53% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 21mg (23% Daily Value)
Calcium: 62mg (5% Daily Value)
Iron: 5mg (26% Daily Value)
Potassium: 1154mg (25% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Chili is a quintessential comfort food in the United States, with countless variations across different regions. The Skillet Chili recipe, a hearty and spicy dish, stands out for its simplicity and bold flavor. Here, we explore the origins, regional differences, and unique characteristics of this dish.

History of Skillet Chili

The origins of chili can be traced back to the American Southwest, particularly Texas, where it was first popularized in the 19th century. The dish is believed to have been influenced by Mexican cuisine, utilizing chili peppers, meat, and beans in a rich, flavorful stew. While traditional chili is simmered for hours in a pot, the Skillet Chili variation cooks quickly in a skillet, offering a more accessible version of the beloved dish for busy weeknights.

Regional Variations

Chili recipes vary greatly across the United States. In Texas, for example, chili is often made without beans, focusing solely on meat and spices. The Skillet Chili recipe, which incorporates beans, is closer to the chili con carne style, found in other parts of the country. Some regions, such as the Midwest, favor a sweeter version, while others may prefer it spicier, as seen in the addition of jalapeos and cayenne pepper in this recipe.

What Makes Skillet Chili Different?

Unlike traditional chili recipes that require long simmering times to develop flavor, Skillet Chili is cooked quickly in a skillet, making it a perfect choice for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy a rich, comforting meal. The use of chili beans and tomato paste gives the dish a thicker consistency, while the combination of spices adds depth and warmth. This recipe is also highly customizable, allowing for the addition of different vegetables, meats, or even additional heat to suit personal preferences.

Where Is Skillet Chili Usually Served?

Skillet Chili is a versatile dish that can be served in various settings, from family dinners to casual gatherings. It is especially popular in colder months, as its hearty nature makes it a filling and warming meal. Many enjoy it with cornbread or over a bed of rice, while others might pair it with tortilla chips or crackers for added crunch. In Texas, its often served as a topping for hot dogs or fries, known as chili dogs or chili cheese fries. The dish is also a popular choice at sports gatherings, especially during the fall and winter seasons.

Interesting Facts About Chili

Chili is often a subject of debate, with some people insisting that beans should never be included in the recipe. The argument is particularly strong in Texas, where "real" chili is made with only meat and spices.
The International Chili Society holds annual competitions, where professional and amateur chili makers compete to see who can create the best chili.
The world's largest chili cook-off took place in the small town of Terlingua, Texas, where it continues to attract thousands of chili lovers each year.
While chili is considered a stew, it is officially categorized as a chili con carne in Texas, which means "chili with meat" in Spanish.
The spices used in chili, especially chili powder and cayenne pepper, are packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Whether you like your chili spicy or mild, with beans or without, Skillet Chili provides a delicious and quick way to enjoy this iconic American dish. With its bold flavors and heartiness, it's no wonder that chili has become a staple in kitchens across the United States.

FAQ about Skillet Chili Recipe

Yes, you can store Skillet Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before storing, and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Yes, Skillet Chili freezes very well. After cooling, store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave until it reaches a safe temperature.

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein options such as lentils or tofu. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to your preference, especially if you're using leaner meats.

To make the chili spicier, you can add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce. If you like more heat, you can also include chopped jalapeños or other hot peppers. Taste as you go to ensure the spice level is to your liking.

Skillet Chili pairs well with a variety of sides such as cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. You can also top it with sour cream, shredded cheese, or sliced green onions for added flavor.

Yes, you can use dry beans instead of canned chili beans. If using dry beans, you will need to soak them overnight or for at least 6-8 hours before cooking. Make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding to the chili.

If your chili turns out too thick, you can add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Start with a small amount and stir it in slowly to avoid making it too runny.

To reduce the sodium in this recipe, you can use low-sodium chili beans, tomato sauce, and seasoning salt. You can also replace seasoning salt with a blend of salt-free spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

Yes, Skillet Chili can be made in advance. It actually benefits from sitting for a few hours or even overnight as the flavors meld together. Simply refrigerate it once it cools down, and reheat it before serving.

To make Skillet Chili vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with plant-based alternatives such as lentils, tofu, or a meatless crumbles option. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Comments

Timothy Rodriguez

08/24/2022 01:11:01 PM

This chili was amazingly delicious. Following my high protein/low carbohydrate diet, I decided to reduce the amount of beans and tomato paste in the recipe. This chili has earned a permanent spot in my recipe collection, as we always enjoy it on New Year's Day and so far, this is the best recipe I have come across. Thank you, Mr. Chinn!

Patrick Collins

09/03/2023 08:03:47 AM

Easy recipe to follow... I made quite a few adjustments as I am currently living abroad and enjoy adding my personal touch to dishes. Instead of seasoning the meat after browning and crumbling, I seasoned it while cooking. Additionally, I finely chopped 3 garlic cloves and mixed them with the tomato paste. I also included red and green chili peppers along with coriander for extra flavor.

Diane Hernandez

03/28/2023 06:31:15 PM

I only used the cooking method from the recipe, but I made some adjustments. I caramelized onions, garlic, and fresh ginger before cooking the beef, so the meat absorbed those flavors. I also deviated from the spice list provided.

Nicole Williams

01/09/2025 07:05:45 AM

Very delicious. I recommend following the recipe as instructed at first, and then adjusting it to suit your desired level of spiciness. Personally, I found that I needed to add extra chili powder and cayenne pepper to satisfy my taste preferences. One thing to keep in mind is to properly soak dry beans before you use them. It's crucial not to overlook this step. If you're using dry beans, make sure to soak them for 18-24 hours prior to cooking. The beans should be soft enough to easily squish between your fingers; if not, continue soaking them until they reach the right consistency.

David Smith

08/28/2023 05:09:59 AM

This recipe is reminiscent of the one I've been using for over 30 years. My personal twist is to double the spices and incorporate extra green peppers. I find that using both red and green peppers adds a delightful complexity. Personally, I prefer using a large can of diced tomatoes instead of tomato paste. This dish pairs perfectly with cornbread or can be enjoyed over pasta.

Mark Collins

10/04/2023 10:17:43 AM

This is my top choice for a fast and satisfying meal. I always get praise when I make this chili. Despite being a Texan, I include beans (shock... horror) for that extra heartiness. I actually double the beans! We enjoy adding sour cream and Fritos on top. Sometimes I skip the green peppers, but this recipe always delivers great results!

Mark Lewis

07/29/2023 01:45:45 PM

I prepare a chili that's quite similar to this recipe. I include a variety of beans such as kidney, black, great northern, baked, and pinto. To cater to my kids' taste for sweet chili, I also mix in some brown sugar. Instead of chili beans, I opt for chili powder. Appreciate sharing the recipe!

Carolyn Johnson

09/11/2023 10:05:42 AM

I enhance my chili with Rotel diced chilies and red pepper flakes. This has become my go-to chili recipe.

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