Campbell’s Tomato Soup Chili With Ground Beef Recipe

Ah, Campbell’s Tomato Soup-whether you enjoy it with a grilled cheese sandwich or as a base for something more hearty, it’s a classic comfort food. But have you ever thought about using it as the foundation for a chili? If not, you’re in for a treat! This Campbell’s Tomato Soup Chili with Ground Beef recipe takes that iconic creamy, tangy tomato flavor and transforms it into a rich, savory, and satisfying bowl of chili. Perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or anytime you want a dish that’s both simple and hearty.

Chili is one of those dishes that just hits the spot no matter the season. With the weather turning colder or when you’re craving something filling, this recipe will make you feel like you’ve achieved chili perfection in no time.

This version uses Campbell’s Tomato Soup as the base, and when you add ground beef and a medley of spices, vegetables, and beans, it becomes the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and satisfying for the whole family. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this dish can be made with minimal fuss and still deliver incredible flavor.

So, let’s dive into the details!

Campbell’s Tomato Soup Chili With Ground Beef Recipe

This chili recipe is a blend of the beloved flavors of tomato soup and traditional chili. The ground beef adds richness and depth, while the beans offer texture and substance. The seasonings bring everything together, creating a warm, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and comfort.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb ground beef – The star of this dish, adding the rich, meaty flavor that’s essential in a good chili.
• 2 cans Campbell’s Tomato Soup (about 10.5 oz each) – The creamy tomato base that makes this chili special. It brings tang, creaminess, and a smooth texture.
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – This adds a bit of chunkiness to the chili, giving it some texture and extra tomato goodness.
• 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed – Beans add heartiness and balance to the chili, absorbing the flavorful broth while providing protein and fiber.
• 1 can chili beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed – These beans come in a seasoned sauce, so they add extra flavor and a bit of heat.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped – The onion is sautéed to give the chili a soft, aromatic base that complements the meat and tomato.
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (green, red, or yellow) – A pop of color and a sweet crunch that contrasts the richness of the beef and soup.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is essential for deepening the flavor of the chili with its aromatic, savory essence.
• 1-2 tbsp chili powder – The heart of the chili’s spiciness, giving it that signature warmth.
• 1 tsp cumin – A warm, earthy spice that elevates the chili with a subtle smokiness.
• ½ tsp paprika – Adds a smoky, slightly sweet layer to the flavor profile.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors and brings everything into balance.
• ½ tsp black pepper – A mild heat and an extra layer of flavor.
• 1 cup beef broth or water – To adjust the consistency of the chili and allow the flavors to meld together.

Cooking Instructions

1. Brown The Ground Beef

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it’s browned and fully cooked. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
   • Drain off any excess fat, if necessary, to keep the dish from being too greasy.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes, until they soften and become aromatic.
   • Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

3. Add The Spices

   • Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to bring out the full flavor.

4. Combine The Soup And Tomatoes

   • Pour in the cans of Campbell’s Tomato Soup, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chili beans. Stir everything together, making sure the soup and spices mix thoroughly.
   • Add the beef broth or water to your desired consistency. If you like a thicker chili, use less liquid; for a soupier version, add a little more.

5. Simmer

   • Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. Let it cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.

6. Taste And Adjust

   • Before serving, taste the chili and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you like more heat, add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.

7. Serve

   • Serve your hearty chili in bowls. Top with optional garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for an extra touch.

Ingredient Insights

• Ground Beef: It’s the primary source of protein and gives the chili its rich, meaty texture. Using lean ground beef (90% or higher) can cut down on excess fat, but using fattier beef (like 80/20) adds more flavor and richness.
• Campbell’s Tomato Soup: The beauty of Campbell’s Tomato Soup lies in its creamy consistency and balanced tomato flavor. It creates a velvety texture that enhances the chili’s smoothness. The slight sweetness of the soup cuts through the savory spices and meat, giving the chili a subtle complexity.
• Beans: Kidney beans and chili beans both play a significant role in chili. Kidney beans hold up well in the stew, while chili beans, often pre-seasoned, add another layer of depth.
• Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika adds a perfect balance of warmth and smoky undertones. Cumin provides earthiness, while chili powder offers a lively heat.

Expert Tips

• Low and Slow: For the best flavor, let your chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, let it cook for an hour or more. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors develop and intensify.
• Adjust to Taste: Chili is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to tweak the spices. If you like more heat, add cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño. If you prefer it milder, cut back on the chili powder.
• Make It Ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch, let it cool, and store it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it the next day for an easy, delicious meal.
• Garnish: Don’t skip the toppings! Sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs can take your chili to the next level.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Chili: Skip the ground beef and add more beans or lentils for a vegetarian version. You can also incorporate extra vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach for added texture and nutrition.
• Spicy Chili: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or more chili powder to up the heat level.
• Taco Chili: Mix in some taco seasoning instead of chili powder for a fun, Tex-Mex twist. You can also top with crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
• Cheese Lovers: Stir in cream cheese for extra richness or melt some shredded cheddar cheese into the chili for a cheesy surprise.

Final Words

This Campbell’s Tomato Soup Chili with Ground Beef is everything you want in a chili: hearty, flavorful, comforting, and easy to make. It takes just a few simple ingredients, but it delivers a robust, satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or preparing for a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe will hit the mark.

Chili is one of those dishes that’s made to be enjoyed with loved ones. It’s the kind of food that brings people together, and this Campbell’s Tomato Soup Chili is no exception. It’s simple, filling, and packed with flavor-everything you could ask for in a meal!