The Art Of Reuse: How To Make A Chili Out Of Last Night’s Dinner

Have you ever found yourself with leftover spaghetti sauce, wondering what to do with it? Well, wonder no more! You can easily transform that leftover sauce into a delicious and hearty chili. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make chili out of leftover spaghetti sauce.

Gather Your Ingredients

Leftover Spaghetti Sauce: The star of the show!
Ground Beef or Turkey: Lean ground beef or turkey adds protein and richness.
Onion: Chopped onion provides flavor and texture.
Green Bell Pepper: Adds color and crunch.
Canned Beans: Kidney beans, black beans, or a mix of both add fiber and texture.
Canned Corn: Optional, but adds sweetness and texture.
Chili Seasoning: A blend of spices that gives your chili its signature flavor.
Chicken or Beef Broth: Adds depth and moisture.
Shredded Cheese (Optional): Topped over the chili for a cheesy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot and sauté until softened.
3. Add the Spaghetti Sauce: Pour in the leftover spaghetti sauce and stir to combine.
4. Season the Chili: Add the chili seasoning and stir well.
5. Add the Beans: Drain and rinse the canned beans and add them to the pot.
6. Add the Corn (Optional): If desired, drain and rinse the canned corn and add it to the pot.
7. Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours for a more flavorful chili.
8. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, if desired.

Variations

• Spicy Chili: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños for some heat.
• Vegetarian Chili: Omit the ground meat and add an extra can of beans for a meatless option.
• Sweet Chili: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Different Sauces: Experiment with using different leftover sauces, such as marinara, vodka sauce, or Alfredo sauce.

Tips

• Use a Rich Spaghetti Sauce: The flavor of the chili will depend on the flavor of the spaghetti sauce you use. Choose a sauce that is full of flavor and spices.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: If you have a lot of leftover spaghetti sauce, don’t try to cram it all into one pot. Divide it into two pots and cook each one separately.
• Simmer Slowly: The longer you simmer the chili, the more flavorful it will become. Allow it to simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the chili is too thick, add some chicken or beef broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for longer to reduce the liquid.

What to Serve with Chili

• Cornbread: A classic pairing that adds a sweet and savory touch.
• Rice: A fluffy bed for the chili, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• Sour Cream: A creamy topping that balances the heat and adds richness.
• Avocado: Sliced avocado adds a fresh and creamy element.
• Tortilla Chips: For dipping and scooping up the chili.

In a nutshell

Transforming leftover spaghetti sauce into a hearty and flavorful chili is a clever way to reduce food waste and create a delicious meal. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a comforting and satisfying chili that will warm you up on a cold day.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use any type of ground meat for the chili?
A: Yes, you can use lean ground beef, turkey, or even a mix of both.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the chili?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms.

Q: How can I make the chili spicier?
A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a few chopped jalapeños, or a dash of chili powder to taste.

Q: Can I freeze the leftover chili?
A: Yes, chili freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing it for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I reheat the chili?
A: You can reheat the chili on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through.