Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Bold Flavor – The addition of Guinness gives this chili a deep, malty richness that sets it apart.
Tender and Hearty – Slow-cooked beef makes this chili melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Perfect for a Crowd – Great for game days, parties, or family dinners.
Easy to Customize – Adjust the spice level and ingredients to your preference.
Make-Ahead Friendly – The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

Ingredients

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

Ground beef or cubed beef chuck
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Red bell pepper, diced
Jalapeño, diced (optional for heat)
Canned diced tomatoes
Tomato paste
Guinness stout
Beef broth
Canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Canned black beans, drained and rinsed
Chili powder
Smoked paprika
Cumin
Oregano
Salt and pepper
Worcestershire sauce
Brown sugar (optional, to balance flavors)

Directions

Brown the Beef – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the Aromatics – Add diced onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using) to the pot. Cook until softened.
Add Spices and Tomato Paste – Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
Deglaze with Guinness – Pour in the Guinness and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to cook off some alcohol.
Add Remaining Ingredients – Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and brown sugar (if using). Bring to a simmer.
Simmer – Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld.
Add Beans – In the last 20 minutes, stir in the kidney and black beans. Let them warm through.
Adjust Seasoning – Taste and add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
Serve – Enjoy hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cornbread.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Spicier Version: Add extra jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.
Thicker Chili: Use less broth or let it simmer uncovered for longer.
Meaty Twist: Try adding bacon or sausage for extra depth.bacon or sausage for extra depth
Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead.
Different Beans: Swap kidney or black beans for pinto or cannellini beans.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Let the chili cool completely, then freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.

FAQs

How does Guinness affect the chili’s flavor?

Guinness adds a deep, malty richness that enhances the overall depth of flavor. It also helps tenderize the meat.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I use a different type of stout?

Yes, but dark stouts like Guinness work best for a rich, bold flavor. If substituting, try another stout or porter.

Can I make this chili without Guinness?

Absolutely. Substitute the Guinness with additional beef broth or a splash of coffee for a similar depth of flavor.

What are the best toppings for Guinness Beef Chili?

Shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, chopped cilantro, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips all make great toppings.

Is this chili very spicy?

Not necessarily. You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeños, chili powder, and other spices.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version of this chili.

What side dishes pair well with this chili?

Cornbread, crusty bread, rice, or a side salad complement this dish well.

How can I make it thicker?

Let it simmer uncovered for a while or mash some of the beans to naturally thicken it.

Can I make this a day ahead?

Yes! In fact, chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Conclusion

Guinness Beef Chili is a bold, comforting dish packed with deep flavors and hearty ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, a gathering, or meal prep, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Serve it with your favorite toppings and enjoy the rich taste that Guinness brings to this classic chili.

Guinness Beef Chili

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Guinness Beef Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together the deep, malty richness of Guinness with tender beef and a medley of spices. This comforting chili is perfect for cold nights, game days, or any time you’re craving a satisfying bowl of warmth. The addition of Guinness enhances the depth of flavor and helps tenderize the meat, making it incredibly delicious.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Brown the Beef – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté Aromatics – Add diced onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using) to the pot. Cook until softened.
Add Spices and Tomato Paste – Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
Deglaze the Pot – Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Add Remaining Ingredients – Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar (if using). Bring to a simmer.
Simmer – Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld.
Add Beans – In the last 20 minutes, stir in kidney and black beans. Let them warm through.
Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more spices as needed.
Serve – Enjoy hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cornbread.

Notes

For a spicier chili – Add extra jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.
To thicken the chili – Let it simmer uncovered for a longer time, or mash some of the beans to naturally thicken it.
Vegetarian option – Replace beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead.
Make-ahead – Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.