Culver's Chili: Ingredients, Nutrition & Facts

Culver's chili is a hearty beef-based soup featuring ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, and a blend of spices. It contains 220 calories per standard 8-ounce serving, is gluten-free, and has been a consistent menu item at Culver's restaurants across the United States since its introduction.

Culver's chili stands as one of the fast-casual chain's most popular side menu items, offering customers a warm, satisfying option that complements their famous ButterBurgers and frozen custard. This article provides a comprehensive look at what makes Culver's chili distinctive, its nutritional profile, and how it fits within the restaurant's overall menu strategy.

What Exactly Is in Culver's Chili?

Culver's serves a traditional beef chili that follows a straightforward recipe focused on quality ingredients. The primary components include:

• Ground beef (the main protein source)
• Tomato products (providing the base liquid and acidity)
• Red kidney beans (adding texture and fiber)
• Onions and garlic (for aromatic depth)
• A proprietary spice blend (including chili powder, cumin, and other seasonings)

Unlike some regional chili variations, Culver's version contains beans, placing it firmly in the "Texas-style with beans" category rather than the bean-free "Texas red" tradition. The restaurant chain maintains consistent quality control across locations, ensuring the same taste profile whether you order chili in Wisconsin or Florida.

Nutritional Profile of Culver's Chili

For health-conscious diners, understanding the nutritional content of Culver's chili is essential. Here's the detailed breakdown for a standard 8-ounce serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	220	11%
Total Fat	9g	12%
Saturated Fat	3.5g	18%
Cholesterol	35mg	12%
Sodium	970mg	42%
Total Carbohydrates	20g	7%
Dietary Fiber	6g	21%
Sugars	5g	-
Protein	15g	-

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Notably, Culver's chili contains a substantial 15 grams of protein per serving, making it a relatively balanced option among fast-food sides. The 6 grams of dietary fiber (21% of daily value) primarily comes from the kidney beans and tomato ingredients.

Special Dietary Considerations

For customers with specific dietary requirements, Culver's chili offers several notable attributes:

• Gluten-free: Culver's officially lists their chili as gluten-free, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity
• Dairy-free: The standard recipe contains no dairy ingredients
• Vegetarian status: Contains ground beef, so not vegetarian or vegan
• Allergen information: Contains soy (in the form of soybean oil) and is prepared in facilities that handle other common allergens

Customers with severe allergies should consult with restaurant staff about potential cross-contamination risks, as kitchen practices can vary by location despite corporate guidelines.

How Culver's Serves Their Chili

Culver's offers their chili in two standard serving sizes:

• Regular: 8 ounces (220 calories)
• Large: 12 ounces (330 calories)

The chili is served piping hot in a disposable paper bowl with a plastic lid and spoon. Many customers enjoy it as a standalone meal, while others pair it with Culver's signature ButterBurger or cheese curds. Unlike some chili-focused restaurants, Culver's doesn't typically offer customization options like adding extra beans or removing onions.

Seasonal Availability and Menu Placement

One advantage of Culver's chili is its year-round availability. Unlike some fast-food chains that offer chili only during colder months, Culver's serves this item consistently throughout all seasons. It's positioned as a permanent menu feature rather than a limited-time offering.

The chili appears in the "Sides & Soups" section of the menu, priced competitively with other side options. This strategic placement encourages customers to add it to their main meal order, whether they're purchasing a sandwich, salad, or dinner platter.

Customer Reception and Popularity

Based on customer reviews and feedback across multiple platforms, Culver's chili generally receives positive ratings. Regular customers often cite it as a comforting, reliable option that delivers consistent quality. The most common praise focuses on:

• The hearty beef flavor without being overly spicy
• The appropriate bean-to-meat ratio
• The satisfying thickness and texture
• The reasonable calorie count for a fast-food side

Criticism tends to center on the sodium content (970mg per serving, which is 42% of the recommended daily value) and the limited customization options. Some chili enthusiasts wish for a spicier version or additional topping choices.

How Culver's Chili Compares to Competitors

When evaluating culver's chili nutritional information against similar fast-casual offerings, it holds its own reasonably well:

• Compared to Steak 'n Shake's chili (290 calories for 8oz), Culver's version is lower in calories
• Unlike Wendy's chili (which contains no beans), Culver's includes kidney beans for added fiber
• The sodium content is comparable to most fast-food chili options
• It contains more protein than many competing options due to the higher meat content

For those specifically searching does culver's chili have beans, the answer is definitively yes—red kidney beans are a standard ingredient in their recipe.

Ordering Tips for Culver's Chili

To get the most from your Culver's chili experience:

• Ask for it extra hot if you prefer a spicier kick (staff can sometimes add extra seasoning)
• Consider pairing it with a side salad for a more balanced meal
• Check with your local restaurant about availability before visiting, as rare supply chain issues might temporarily affect menu items
• For those monitoring sodium intake, be aware that one serving contains 42% of the recommended daily value

Is Culver's chili gluten-free?

Yes, Culver's officially lists their chili as gluten-free. However, customers with severe gluten sensitivity should be aware of potential cross-contamination risks in restaurant kitchens.

How many calories are in Culver's chili?

A standard 8-ounce serving of Culver's chili contains 220 calories. The larger 12-ounce portion contains 330 calories.

Does Culver's chili contain beans?

Yes, Culver's chili contains red kidney beans as one of the primary ingredients, along with ground beef and tomato products.

Is Culver's chili available year-round?

Yes, unlike some fast-food chains that offer chili only seasonally, Culver's serves their chili consistently throughout all seasons as a permanent menu item.

What is the sodium content of Culver's chili?

A standard 8-ounce serving of Culver's chili contains 970mg of sodium, which represents 42% of the recommended daily value based on a 2,000 calorie diet.