Chili Con Carne

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chili Con Carne is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy to make and full of bold, savory flavors. It’s a one-pot wonder that requires minimal prep and delivers a rich, flavorful result. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a big party, this recipe is guaranteed to please. It’s also great for meal prepping or freezing, making it an excellent go-to recipe for busy weeks.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like crumbled tempeh or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly chili.
• Spicy Chili: Add more cayenne pepper or a couple of chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
• Toppings: Customize your chili with various toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or avocado slices. Crushed tortilla chips can add a crunchy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: Chili Con Carne can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra broth if needed. You can also microwave individual servings until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef and works wonderfully in chili.

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. You can make it a day or two ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

How do I thicken my chili?

If your chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. You can also add a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina to thicken it up.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add corn, zucchini, or carrots to the chili for more flavor and texture.

What beans are best for chili?

Kidney beans and black beans are the most commonly used beans in chili, but you can experiment with other beans like pinto beans or white beans if you prefer.

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I use canned chili beans instead of regular beans?

Yes, canned chili beans will work, but they may already have added spices, so adjust the seasoning as needed.

How spicy is this chili?

The spiciness of this chili is moderate. If you prefer it milder, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount.

What should I serve with chili?

Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, or even a simple side salad.

Can I add more meat to the chili?

Yes, you can increase the amount of ground meat for a heartier chili. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Conclusion

Chili Con Carne is a perfect comfort food that’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a meal to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe will become a favorite in your rotation. With its flexibility and rich taste, it’s sure to please every palate.

Chili Con Carne

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Chili Con Carne is a rich and hearty Tex-Mex dish made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of bold spices. It’s a perfect comfort food for cozy nights or gatherings. Easy to make, full of flavor, and versatile in its variations, it’s an ideal choice for meal prepping and freezing. Serve it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 40min
• Total Time: 50min
• Yield: 4-6servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.

Notes

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with crumbled tempeh or lentils for a plant-based chili.
• Spicy Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add jalapeños for extra heat.
• Toppings: Customize with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips.

Storage/Reheating:

• Storing: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: Cool and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding broth as needed.