Chili con Carne is a beloved dish that has warmed hearts and filled stomachs for generations. This hearty stew, rich with flavor and spice, is a staple in many households, particularly during the colder months. Rooted in Mexican cuisine, the name translates to “chili with meat,” highlighting its primary components: chili peppers and ground beef. What makes this dish truly special is its ability to evoke comfort, making it a go-to for family dinners, game days, or any occasion where you seek a satisfying meal. Whether you prefer a traditional recipe or a twist on the classic, Chili con Carne is versatile enough to cater to various tastes. In this article, we will guide you through a delicious and easy ground beef chili recipe that promises to please your family and friends.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the perfect Chili con Carne. Ensure that your spices are fresh for the best flavor.

• Meat:
  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• Vegetables:
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• Spices:
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder (preferably a spicy chili seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Liquids:
  • 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• Toppings (optional):
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped green onions
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Avocado slices

Feel free to substitute ground turkey or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Additionally, you can explore homemade chili sauces to elevate your Chili con Carne further. Check out our related guide for more tips.

Steps / Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices, which enhances their flavor.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the kidney beans. Mix everything together, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
5. Simmer: Add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste your chili after 30 minutes. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
7. Serve: Ladle the Chili con Carne into bowls and add your favorite chili toppings. Enjoy it hot!

Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best results with your Chili con Carne, consider the following tips:

• Storage: Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Make-Ahead: Chili is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Prepare it a day in advance and reheat for an even more flavorful meal.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid skipping the toasting of spices; it significantly enhances the flavor. Also, do not rush the simmering process; longer cooking times deepen the flavors.
• Slow Cooker Option: For an easy weeknight dinner, you can make this chili in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the liquids. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Chili con Carne Variations

There are countless ways to customize your Chili con Carne. Consider these variations:

• Beanless Chili: For those who prefer a meatier, traditional Mexican chili experience, simply omit the beans.
• Spicy Kick: Add fresh jalapeños or habaneros for a fiery heat.
• Vegetarian Chili: Replace the ground beef with lentils or a mix of vegetables for a hearty, vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

Chili con Carne can be served on its own, but pairing it with delicious sides enhances the meal. Consider serving it with:

• Freshly baked cornbread to soak up the rich flavors.
• A side of tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
• Complementary drinks such as a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea.

Chili con Carne

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: Mexican Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

—

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

30 min

🔥

Calories

—

PRINT

Chili con Carne is a beloved dish that has warmed hearts and filled stomachs for generations. This hearty stew, rich with flavor and spice, is a staple in many households, particularly during the colder months. Rooted in Mexican cuisine, the name translates to 'chili with meat,' highlighting its primary components: chili peppers and ground beef. What makes this dish truly special is its ability to evoke comfort, making it a go-to for family dinners, game days, or any occasion where you seek a satisfying meal. Whether you prefer a traditional recipe or a twist on the classic, Chili con Carne is versatile enough to cater to various tastes. In this article, we will guide you through a delicious and easy ground beef chili recipe that promises to please your family and friends.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons chili powder (preferably a spicy chili seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• Shredded cheese (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Chopped green onions (optional)
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Avocado slices (optional)

Directions

1.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks.

2.

Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

3.

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices, which enhances their flavor.

4.

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the kidney beans. Mix everything together, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.

5.

Add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

6.

Taste your chili after 30 minutes. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

7.

Ladle the Chili con Carne into bowls and add your favorite chili toppings. Enjoy it hot!

Recipe Reviews

• hassan★★★★★June 1, 2026

  Excellent recipe!

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