Midwest Comfort Chili
Inspired by the nostalgic flavors of Steak and Shake, this mild and slightly sweet chili is perfect for families and children. Rich in flavor yet gentle on the palate, it combines ground beef, savory soup, and a medley of beans, creating a hearty dish reminiscent of cozy dinners shared at home. This recipe transforms a classic fast-food favorite into a homemade masterpiece that warms the heart and satisfies both young and old. Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a game day treat, this chili is sure to become a beloved family staple.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
oil
2 tablespoons (for browning beef)
ground beef
1 1/2 lbs (browned)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Campbell's French onion soup
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can (pureed in a blender)
chili powder
1 tablespoon (to add flavor)
ground cumin
2 teaspoons (to enhance taste)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
cocoa powder
2 teaspoons (for added richness)
ranch style beans or chili beans
2 (15 ounce) cans (drained)
tomato paste
1 (6 ounce) can (to thicken chili)
tomato sauce
1 (8 ounce) can (to add moisture)
cola
1 cup (not diet)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the oil and add the ground beef. Season with salt and cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
2
While the beef cooks, pour the can of Campbell's French onion soup into a blender and blend for one minute until smooth.
3
Once the beef is browned, if necessary, drain any excess fat and return the meat to the skillet.
4
Add the blended soup to the beef, followed by the chili powder, ground cumin, pepper, cocoa, and cola. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5
Transfer the mixture to a crockpot. Add the ranch-style beans (or chili beans), tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Stir everything together until well-incorporated.
6
Cover the crockpot with a lid and set it to low heat for 6 hours or high heat for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
7
Once finished cooking, give the chili a good stir and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Midwest Comfort Chili with your favorite toppings!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the inspiration for Midwest Comfort Chili?
This chili is inspired by the nostalgic flavors of Steak and Shake.
Is this chili spicy?
No, this chili is mild and gentle on the palate, making it perfect for families.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, its slightly sweet and mild flavor profile is specifically designed to be enjoyed by children.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1.5 lbs of ground beef.
How should the Campbell's French onion soup be prepared?
The soup should be poured into a blender and blended for one minute until smooth before adding it to the meat.
Can I use diet cola in this recipe?
No, the recipe specifies using regular cola rather than a diet version.
How long does the chili cook in a crockpot on low heat?
It should cook for 6 hours on the low heat setting.
How long does the chili cook in a crockpot on high heat?
It should cook for 2 hours on the high heat setting.
What kind of beans are used?
You can use either ranch-style beans or chili beans.
Should the beans be drained before adding them?
Yes, the beans should be drained before being added to the crockpot.
Why is cocoa powder included in the ingredients?
Cocoa powder is added to provide a layer of richness to the chili.
What size can of tomato paste is required?
You will need one 6 ounce can of tomato paste.
What size can of tomato sauce is required?
The recipe calls for one 8 ounce can of tomato sauce.
How much cola should I add?
The recipe requires 1 cup of cola.
What is the first step in cooking the beef?
Warm 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
Should I season the beef while it browns?
Yes, season the beef with 1/2 teaspoon of salt while it cooks.
What should I do with excess fat from the beef?
If necessary, drain any excess fat after the beef has browned.
What spices are used for the flavor base?
The flavor base includes chili powder, ground cumin, and black pepper.
How much ground cumin is needed?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of ground cumin.
Is this a good recipe for game day?
Yes, it is described as an ideal treat for game day or a cozy weeknight dinner.
How many cans of beans are needed?
The recipe requires two 15 ounce cans of ranch-style or chili beans.
Does this chili contain any sweetener?
The sweetness comes from the cola and the flavor profile of the French onion soup.
What is the texture of the finished chili?
It is a hearty dish with a smooth base thanks to the blended soup and tomato products.
What equipment is needed to blend the soup?
A standard kitchen blender is used to puree the French onion soup.
Can I substitute the oil for browning?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of oil, though you can use any neutral cooking oil suitable for browning meat.
When do I add the tomato paste?
The tomato paste is added to the crockpot along with the beans and tomato sauce.
How much chili powder is used?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of chili powder.
Is this considered a Midwest style dish?
Yes, it is titled Midwest Comfort Chili and features flavors common to that region.
How much black pepper is included?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 12 ingredients in this recipe.