Meatball Chili

Meatballs made with ground beef, seasoned fine dry bread crumbs and eggs are browned, then cooked with additional crumbled ground beef, onion, green pepper, canned tomatoes, chili beans, tomato juice, chili seasoning mix and chili powder.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs ground beef, divided
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup seasoned fine dry Italian bread crumbs
• 2 Tbsp milk
• 1/4 tsp ground red pepper
• 3/4 tsp black pepper, divided
• 2 tsp salt, divided
• 3/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 3 to 4 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium chopped onion
• 1/2 chopped green pepper
• 1 pkg original chili seasoning mix
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with jalapenos
• 2 can (15 oz) chili hot beans
• 1 (46 oz) can tomato juice

Directions:

For meatballs mix 1 lb. of the ground beef, eggs, 1/2 tsp salt, bread crumbs, 1/4 tsp. black pepper, red pepper, milk and cheese; shape into small balls; brown in olive oil in skillet. Remove onto a plate to drain. For chili brown remaining 2 lbs ground beef, onion, 1/2 tsp. pepper, 1 1/2 tsp salt and green pepper in large Dutch oven. Drain off grease. To the mixture add chili seasoning mix, chili powder, tomatoes, and beans. Stir well and simmer 5-10 minutes. Add the tomato juice; simmer 20 minutes. Add meatballs; simmer 20 minutes. Cool slightly. Let set a few hours or overnight in cold place for the flavors to blend. Reheat and serve.

Number of Servings: 10

Notes from the Cook: Something a little different with the meatballs in the chili. Serve with hot bread, cornbread, or crackers.