If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors, hearty textures, and comforting warmth, this Chili Con Carne Recipe is the answer you’ve been waiting for. Packed with tender ground beef, vibrant beans, and a symphony of spices, it’s a classic that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this chili combines simplicity and soul in every spoonful, making it a staple you’ll want to turn to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chili Con Carne Recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring their own magic to the pot. From the rich umami depth of tomato paste to the satisfying creaminess of beans, every item plays a key role in creating a dish bursting with color, texture, and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the perfect base to sauté the onions and garlic, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 large onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and texture that softens beautifully as it cooks.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Gives an aromatic punch that elevates the entire chili.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this chili fulfilling and deliciously meaty.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and enriches the sauce with a slightly sweet, umami depth.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Brings brightness and a fresh tomato juiciness to the dish.
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed): Offers a creamy texture and boosts protein and fiber content.
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed): Adds earthy flavor and pleasant bite contrast.
- 1 cup beef broth: Provides moisture and a savory base, ensuring the chili is rich and not too thick.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The cornerstone spice that delivers warmth and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a smoky earthiness that pairs beautifully with the chili powder.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Lends a subtly smoky flavor that deepens the chili’s character.
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano: Brings herbal notes that balance the richness of the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of heat and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Perfect if you want a little extra fiery zest.
How to Make Chili Con Carne Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until it softens into a translucent, fragrant base. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its amazing aroma without letting it burn.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown evenly, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial because those browned bits bring tons of flavor to the chili. If there’s excess grease, drain it off so your chili isn’t too oily.
Step 3: Deepen the Flavor with Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste and cook it with the beef for about 2 minutes. This concentrates its sweetness and adds a rich, savory backbone to your chili’s sauce—trust me, this step makes all the difference.
Step 4: Build the Chili Body
Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Sprinkle all the spices—chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne if you like some heat—into the pot. Mix everything thoroughly so those flavors mingle from the start.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it bubble away on low for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the flavors to deepen, marry, and develop a beautiful complexity that’s irresistible.
Step 6: Final Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Maybe it needs a pinch more salt, a hint more spicy cayenne, or a bit of extra cumin. This customization is your secret weapon for the perfect bowl every time.
How to Serve Chili Con Carne Recipe
Garnishes
Toppings make a big difference in turning a great chili into an unforgettable one. Fresh shredded cheese melts gloriously on top, sour cream adds a cool, creamy contrast, and chopped green onions provide a crisp freshness. For some fun texture, scatter tortilla chips or add a squeeze of lime to brighten everything up.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the sauce. Try fluffy white rice, warm cornbread, or even a crisp green salad to balance the rich flavors. Each side brings a new dimension to each bite and rounds out a truly satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve your chili over baked potatoes for a hearty twist, create chili-topped nachos for sharing, or stuff it inside warm tortillas with fresh avocado for a Tex-Mex inspired feast. The Chili Con Carne Recipe is versatile, inviting you to make it your own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chili is famously even better the next day because the flavors get to mingle and deepen overnight. Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and you’ll have an effortless meal waiting for you later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep chili on hand for longer, it freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, and it can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm your chili gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it seems thick, a splash of broth or water helps loosen it back up. You can also microwave it in short bursts until piping hot—just give it a good stir in between.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and your Chili Con Carne Recipe will be just as hearty and delicious.
How spicy is this chili?
The recipe has moderate heat thanks to the chili powder and optional cayenne pepper. For more heat, feel free to add extra cayenne or diced jalapeños. If you prefer mild, simply leave out the cayenne pepper.
What’s the best way to thicken the chili if it’s too watery?
Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to let excess liquid evaporate. Alternatively, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to naturally thicken the sauce without losing the texture.
Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours for a hands-off, flavor-packed chili.
What toppings do you recommend for variety?
Besides the classics like cheese and sour cream, try diced avocado, fresh cilantro, pickled jalapeños, or a dollop of guacamole. Even a squeeze of fresh lime juice can add an exciting brightness.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Con Carne Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s comfort food at its finest. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I love eating it. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual gathering, this dish brings warmth, heartiness, and smiles to the table every time.
Print
Chili Con Carne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This classic Chili Con Carne recipe delivers a hearty, flavorful Tex-Mex dish featuring ground beef, beans, and a robust blend of spices simmered to perfection on the stovetop. Perfect for a satisfying main course that can be easily customized for heat and protein preference.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Sauté onions: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Brown beef: Add ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Incorporate tomato paste: Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Add tomatoes and beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and 1 cup beef broth. Stir well.
- Season: Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Combine thoroughly.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it cook gently for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasonings and serve: Taste and adjust salt or spice levels as desired. Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or tortilla chips.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, add extra cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
- Substitute ground turkey or a meat alternative for a leaner or vegetarian version.
