Hearty-but-Healthy Chili

Be sure to put this recipe, courtesy of Marie Hejl, on your menu during your favorite college bowl game, for a warm weeknight dinner or when you're tired of holiday leftovers!

Prep time: 10 minutes, Cook time: 20 minutes
Serves 4-6

2 lbs. Nolan Ryan’s Guarantee Tender lean ground beef or chili meat
1 package taco seasoning
1½ cups water, divided
2 cans (15 oz. each) pinto or black beans with liquid
2 cans (14½ oz. each) diced tomatoes with juice
4 cups fresh or frozen corn
2 tablespoons ranch salad dressing 
½ tablespoon dried red pepper flakes, optional 

Directions
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. 

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

Suggested toppings
Shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped fresh cilantro
Sliced fresh jalapeños 

Serve with 
Warm cornbread or tortilla chips 

About Marie: 
Nolan Ryan’s Guaranteed Tender Meats is pleased to share this recipe from our friend, Marie Hejl. Marie is a self-taught cook who grew up in Austin, Texas with two working parents and three hungry brothers. The focus of her cooking is easy, quick and “healthy enough” cuisine. Today, she is the host of Cooking with Marie, an award-winning cooking show that airs in 80 markets across the nation and several international markets. www.withmarie.com