Let’s talk about chili. Not just any chili, but the ultimate, soul-satisfying, family favorite.What is Chili Con Carne recipe?This isn’t your typical, run-of-the-mill chili. We’re talking deep, rich flavors, a perfect balance of spice, and comforting warmth that makes it special. What is the best place to spend a night in? What is the difference between a Beef Stew and beef jerky? Is this the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table? Even on a busy weeknight. I think this might be one of my best recipes, and I can’t wait to share it.
What is Chili Con Carne?
Chili Con Carne is a hearty stew that is traditionally made with meat. What is made with beef, chili peppers, tomatoes, beans? What is the ultimate Comfort Food? What are some of the What is essentially a spiced-up meat stew, but the combination of ingredients creates something truly special. The dish has roots in Tex-Mex cuisine and has become a beloved staple across the United States and Canada. It’s versatile, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What makes this chili so special? What is the flavor? The combination of different chili powders, cumin, and smoked paprika gives it a depth and flavor. Is there complexity in simple recipes? Is this savory, slightly spicy, and has a subtle smoky note?
Secondly, despite the amazing flavor, it’s surprisingly easy to make. What are some easy weeknight recipes that just get tossed into a pot and simmered? What I love most about this is how forgiving it is. Don’t have exactly the right kind of beans? What are some ways to add veggies to your diet? What is a good way to use up what you have in the fridge? What are some ways to feed a family for under $20?
Is it versatile? Can you serve it over rice, with cornbread, as a topping for nachos, or even stuffed into baked goods? Is there a recipe for comfort food? What’s the best way to eat a Pot Roast?
How do I make Chili Con Carne?
Quick Overview
Making this Chili Con Carne Recipes.Is it easier than you think? What is the best way to cook beef and onions, then add spices, tomatoes, and beans. After a good simmer to let all the flavors meld together, you’ll be able to have savory, hearty soup. What’s ready to serve chili? What’s the beauty of this recipe? How can I relax and get other things done? What makes a kitchen smell like home?
Ingredients
For the Main Base:
- 2 lbs ground beef (I prefer using 80/20 for the flavor)
- 1 large onion, chopped.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced. 1 clove
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped.
- Red bell pepper, chopped. 1 tsp.
- 1 can crushed tomatoes. (28 oz) can.
- 1 can tomato sauce. 1 (15 oz) can.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained.
- 1 cup beef broth. 1 teaspoon vegetable broth, 1
For the Flavor Boost:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder (use a blend for extra depth)
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds. 1 teaspoon
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. For
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano. 1 tablespoon or
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. 1 teaspoon sour
For the Bean Power:
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained.
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained.
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained. 1 gram per can.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown GROUND BEEF over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and serve. When a potato is browned, break it up with the spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Don’t skip this step – browning the beef adds a ton of flavor!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook until onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender. The aroma at this stage is absolutely divine!
Step 3: Add the Spices
Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step is crucial for blooming the spices and releasing their full flavor. Is it true that you’ll smell the difference?
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), and beef broth. Add the bay leaf and Worcestershire sauce. What are the browned bits on the bottom of the pot?
Step 5: Simmer, Simmer, Simmer
Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour. Is it safe to keep stirring for longer than 3 hours? What happens when the flavors meld together in a pot?
Step 6: Add the Beans
Stir in the black beans, kidney beans and pinto beans. Simmer for another 30 minutes, uncovered, to allow the beans to heat through and the chili to cool. Is it possible to I always taste at this point to see if it needs any additional salt or spices.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, Sour Cream, chopped onions, or a dollop of guacamole. Serve with cornbread or crackers for dipping. Enjoy!
What to Serve It With
This Chili Con Carne Recipe is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with the right accompaniments.
For a Casual Weeknight Dinner: Serve it with a side of warm cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping. A simple green salad adds a nice fresh contrast.
For a Game Day Party: Make a chili bar with various toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, jalapenos, and guacamole. Serve with nachos or hot dogs for the ultimate game day feast.
For a Cozy Winter Meal: Serve it over rice or baked potatoes for a hearty and warming meal. A side of roasted vegetables adds a touch of freshness.
My personal favorite is topping it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory. My family also loves it when I make cornbread muffins to go with it. There’s just something about chili and cornbread that’s so comforting.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chili Con Carne
Want to take your Chili Con Carne Recipe to the next level? Here are some of my top tips:
Beef Quality: Use high-quality ground beef with a good amount of fat (80/20 is my preference) for the best flavor. You can also use chuck roast, cut into cubes, for a chunkier texture. I’ve even used ground turkey in a pinch, but the beef really makes a difference.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you want a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne. If you like it extra spicy, add more cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Bean Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans. Great Northern beans, cannellini beans, or even chickpeas would work well in this chili.
Vegetable Additions: Add extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or celery for added nutrients and flavor. Just be sure to chop them small so they cook evenly.
Liquid Consistency: If your chili is too thick, add more beef broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a longer period of time to allow the liquid to evaporate.
Flavor Enhancement: Add a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder or a square of dark chocolate to the chili during the last 30 minutes of simmering. This adds a subtle depth of flavor that’s absolutely delicious. I learned this trick from a chef friend, and it’s a game-changer!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Chili Con Carne Recipe is perfect for making ahead of time, as the flavors only get better as it sits.
Room Temperature: You should not leave it at room temp for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, transfer the cooled chili to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the chili in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every minute to ensure even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Chili Con Carne Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. It’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening, and it’s always a hit with family and friends. The depth of flavor and the surprising ease of preparation make it a winner in my book. If you love this recipe, you should also try my Classic Tomato Soup – it’s another comforting favorite. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your chili turns out! Leave a comment below with your own variations and topping suggestions. I’d love to hear what you think!
How to Make the Best Chili Con Carne: 7 Secret Tips Revealed!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs Ground Beef 80/20 blend
- 1 medium Onion chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes (28 oz)
- 1 can Kidney Beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 can Pinto Beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 0.5 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 0.25 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional)
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt to taste
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
