What to Do With Leftover Chili: Delicious Ideas for Your Next Meal

If you're like most people, you've occasionally ended up with a surplus of chili, whether from an extra-large batch or from uneaten leftovers. Whether you've made chili from scratch or you simply have some extra store-bought chili on hand, you may be wondering: What can I do with all this chili? Instead of letting it go to waste, there are plenty of delicious ways to use up your extra chili for meals and snacks.

Why Use Leftover Chili?

Using leftover chili is a great way to save money, reduce food waste, and get the most out of your ingredients. Chili is also a great way to add flavour and nutrition to a variety of dishes. Whether you use beef, turkey, chicken, or vegetarian chili, its rich, filling flavour adds a great kick to any meal. Plus, it's super easy to reheat and use up in a variety of dishes.

Chili is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be used as a topping for nachos, as a filling for tacos, as a topping for baked potatoes, or as a base for soups and stews. It can also be used to make chili macaroni and cheese, chili dogs, and chili fries. The possibilities are endless!

How to Reheat Leftover Chili

If you made homemade chili, or if you have some store-bought chili that has been refrigerated or frozen, it's important to safely and properly reheat your chili before using it. The best way to do this is by simmering the chili in a pot over low to medium heat until it is heated through. You may also use the microwave, but be aware that this method may cause your chili to become dry. Make sure the temperature has reached at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit before consuming.

When reheating chili, it is important to stir it occasionally to ensure that it is heated evenly. If you are using the microwave, make sure to cover the chili with a lid or paper towel to prevent splattering. Additionally, if you are reheating a large amount of chili, it is best to divide it into smaller portions and reheat it in batches. This will help to ensure that the chili is heated through without burning.

Easy Chili Recipes to Try

If you don't already have leftover chili on hand, there are plenty of easy recipes you can try to make a fresh batch. Classic chili recipes usually involve simmering ground beef and vegetables like onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes in a spicy chili powder and tomato sauce base. However, you can also make vegetarian chili using beans, vegetables, and spices instead of ground meat. You can also mix up your chili recipes by adding interesting ingredients like quinoa, lentils, avocados, taco shells, and more.

If you're looking for a unique twist on chili, you can also try adding different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack. You can also add a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, diced onions, jalapenos, and cilantro. For a smoky flavor, you can also add a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika. Finally, if you're looking for a bit of sweetness, you can add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to your chili.

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Chili

Now that you have your chili prepped and reheated, it's time to get creative with it. There are almost infinite ways to use chili in your meals. Here are some ideas to get your started:

1. Make a chili omelette. Simply scramble some eggs and add chili to the mix. Top with cheese and serve with toast for a delicious breakfast.

2. Create a chili mac and cheese. Mix cooked macaroni with chili and top with cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

3. Make chili nachos. Layer chips with chili, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Create a chili quesadilla. Spread chili on a tortilla, top with cheese, and fold in half. Grill in a pan until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown.

5. Make chili soup. Simply add chili to a pot of broth and simmer until heated through. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and some freshly chopped cilantro.

Chili-Filled Sandwiches

Turn your leftover chili into something special by making a delicious chili sandwich. Try filling a grilled cheese sandwich with chili and cheese for an extra kick of flavour. Or use your chili to stuff baked potatoes or tacos shells. You can also spread chili on toast with melted cheese as an easy snack.

Chili Casseroles

Chili casseroles are easy to make and look impressive when served. Simply layer cooked macaroni or pasta with cheese, corn, tomatoes and chilli together in an oven-proof dish for an easy and comforting meal. For a heartier version add black beans or cooked ground beef. Bake in the oven until golden brown and serve hot.

Chili Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes become a hearty meal when topped with chili. Take a large potato, cut it in half and scoop out the middle. Fill each half with chili and top with cheese, sour cream, and any other toppings of your choice. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Chili-Inspired Pizzas

This unique twist on pizza is sure to please! Start with your favourite store-bought pizza dough or homemade pizza base. Spread chili on top and sprinkle your favourite cheese. Add additional toppings such as jalapeño slices, diced tomatoes, olives, onions, etc. Bake in the oven until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Chili Burritos and Quesadillas

Turn chili into a convenient handheld meal by filling burritos or quesadillas with it! Spread chili on a warm tortilla along with some cheese and any additional ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, bell peppers or onions. Fold the burrito and serve with sour cream or guacamole.

Chili Soup and Stews

Leftover chili also makes a great soup or stew. Simply combine it with vegetable or chicken broth and some additional vegetables like potatoes, peas, carrots, and celery. Simmer until the vegetables are tender. This soup makes a warming winter dinner when served with dinner rolls.

Making a Meal Out of Leftover Chili

Leftover chili can also be served as a main course. Serve it with cooked rice or potatoes and top with grated cheese or green onions for extra flavour. Top it with some sour cream or avocado slices to give it added richness and texture.

Tips for Storing Leftover Chili

Once you’ve reheated your leftover chili, it’s important to store it properly in order for it to remain safe for consumption for up to four days. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you are ready to eat it. You can also store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions for Leftover Chili

Leftover chili can be served as part of many delicious dishes. It can be served over cooked macaroni for a quick and easy macaroni and cheese dish. It can also be used in stuffed peppers- simply spoon your chili into hollowed-out bell peppers, top with cheese and bake until golden brown. Another delicious idea is to spread it onto warmed cornbread or English muffins.

Ideas for Adding Flavor to Leftover Chili

Once you’ve reheated your chili, there are endless possibilities for jazzing it up! For example, try adding some diced jalapeños for spice or some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for texture. You can also try adding cooked ground beef or chorizo to give it a meatier texture. To give your chili even more flavour, try adding different herbs like oregano and cumin or some diced tomatoes or tomato sauce.

Leftover chili can be incredibly versatile and can easily be transformed into delicious meals for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Be sure to follow food safety practices when reheating and storing your chili for the best results. So go ahead — pick up your next batch of chili today — your taste buds will thank you!