There’s nothing that says “cowboy grub” like a like a great big steaming bowl of chili. It’s the perfect meal whether you’re watching the big game on Sunday or just sitting around a campfire on the back forty. Recently, we were sent one of the best chili recipes we’ve seen in a long while from Marie Hejl of Austin, Texas. Marie’s got a TV show, and a book, called Cooking With Marie. Both are full of more more great cooking recipes, so check them out.

Oh, and don’t tell your cowboys, but this is what’s called a “heart healthy” chili recipe. So cook up some chili, sit back, kick up your cowboy boots and eat with no guilt!

Hearty-But-Healthy Chili Recipe

Serves 4 to 6

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds lean ground beef
• 1 package taco seasoning
• 1½ cups water, divided
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) pinto or black beans with liquid
• 2 cans (14½ ounces each) diced tomatoes with juice
• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn
• 2 tablespoons ranch salad dressing
• ½ tablespoon dried red pepper flakes, optional

Toppings:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced fresh jalapeños

Preparation:

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, about 8-10 minutes. Add taco seasoning and 1 cup water; stir to combine. Add the beans, tomatoes, corn, ranch dressing, red pepper flakes if desired and remaining water. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes to allow flavors to combine.

Top individual servings with cheese, cilantro and jalapeños. Serve with warm bread or tortilla chips.

Variations: Use one can each of pinto and black beans. Substitute two 14-ounce cans of corn for fresh or frozen.

Marie’s Suggested Occasions:

• Game-watching party
• Warm weeknight dinner
• Casual winter-holiday dinner party

Excerpt from Cooking With Marie: On Any Occasion! (Bright Sky Press; Albany, Texas 2007); Author: Marie Hejl; Photographer: Jim Hejl, Jr., Copyright Cooking With Marie® 2007. All Rights Reserved.