Bachelors Chili Recipe

Tired of bland bachelor meals? This evolving chili recipe is a game-changer! Start with a hearty beef base, then let it transform throughout the week in your slow cooker, adding new flavors and ingredients each day. Approved by a dietician, this recipe is a delicious and surprisingly nutritious way to enjoy a variety of proteins and vegetables. Get ready for a flavorful journey that culminates in a hearty chili-gumbo hybrid! Perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying snacking.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 190 mins
Calories 170 kcal
Protein 22g
Rating 4.0 (1 Reviews)
Bachelors Chili

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Bachelors Chili

  • Lean Ground Beef
  • Stewed Tomatoes
  • Whole Tomatoes
  • Dark Red Kidney Beans
  • Black Beans
  • Great Northern Beans
  • 1 (15 ounce) can corn
  • Ground Cayenne Pepper
  • Ground Pepper
  • Bay Leaves
  • Lemon Juice
  • Hot Chili Peppers
  • Worcestershire Sauce
  • Aloe Juice

How to Make Bachelors Chili

  1. Brown 1 lb ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off excess fat.
  2. Transfer browned beef to a 6-quart slow cooker.
  3. Add one (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes.
  4. Add one (15 ounce) can pinto beans, one (15 ounce) can corn, and one (4 ounce) can chopped green chilis. Stir in 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), and salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until flavors meld.
  6. Throughout the week, add additional ingredients as desired. Suggestions include: 1 (15 ounce) can of peas (day 2), 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (day 3), 4 ounces cooked shrimp (day 4), 4 ounces diced chicken (day 5).
  7. Each time you add ingredients, stir well to combine.
  8. Continue cooking on low. The chili will thicken and develop richer flavors over time, evolving into a chili-gumbo hybrid by the end of the week.
  9. Serve warm. Enjoy as a hearty meal or a flavorful snack throughout the day.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

7 g

Sugar

23g

Fat

5g

Carbs

9g