Chili Con Carne Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that bursts with flavor, this Chili Con Carne recipe is an absolute winner. A classic blend of tender ground beef, robust spices, and rich tomato goodness, Chili Con Carne is perfect for warming up chilly evenings or feeding a crowd with minimal fuss. Every spoonful brings together textures and tastes that feel like a big, cozy hug, making it a favorite in many kitchens including mine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chili Con Carne lies in its simplicity, with straightforward ingredients that each add a unique touch to the final dish. From the savory ground beef to the aromatic spices, each component builds layers of flavor and texture that make this chili truly special.

• 1 lb ground beef: The main protein that provides richness and a meaty base.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with garlic.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers an unmistakable aromatic punch to elevate the flavor.
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and fiber, balancing the meat.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and bright color to the chili.
• 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the beefy flavor and helps create the perfect texture.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the chili beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder: The signature spice that defines the chili’s warmth.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthy, smoky notes essential for authentic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Complements spices with a subtle sweetness and color.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
• Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions to add creaminess and freshness.

How to Make Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and browning the ground beef until it’s fully cooked all the way through. This step creates a rich base of flavor. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the chili from becoming greasy while still maintaining that meaty goodness.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic into the pot with the beef. Cooking them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant is the secret to layering flavor early on. This step wakes up the palate and gives the chili its inviting aroma.

Step 3: Add Beans and Tomatoes

Now, stir in the rinsed kidney beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. These ingredients come together to add heartiness, acidity, and thickness to your chili. Combining them well helps the chili reach its perfect consistency and flavor balance.

Step 4: Season Your Chili Con Carne

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly to disperse the spices evenly, ensuring every bite has that classic chili warmth and depth you’re craving.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low and let your Chili Con Carne gently simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. This simmering time is crucial — it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the sauce to thicken, creating that luscious, spoon-worthy texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your chili into bowls and if you like, add those optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. These garnishes add cooling, creamy, or fresh contrast that makes each bite even more delicious.

How to Serve Chili Con Carne

Garnishes

Adding garnishes to your Chili Con Carne takes the dish from simple to spectacular. Consider sprinkling shredded cheese that melts into the hot chili, a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, or chopped green onions for a fresh bite and vibrant color. These toppings complement the robust flavors perfectly and also make your bowl look absolutely irresistible.

Side Dishes

Chili Con Carne pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Classic cornbread or crusty bread is ideal for scooping up every last bit. A scoop of fluffy rice can stretch the meal further while ground tortillas or tortilla chips add crunch. A side salad with crisp, fresh veggies helps balance the richness of the chili and brightens the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the bowl and try serving your Chili Con Carne over baked potatoes or as a filling for tacos or stuffed bell peppers. You can also turn it into a chili cheese dip for parties by adding extra cheese and serving with chips. These ideas bring a fun twist and make your favorite chili even more versatile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Chili Con Carne cool to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week without losing any of its rich, hearty flavors.

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully, so don’t hesitate to double the recipe and save some for later. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen Chili Con Carne will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 3 months.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your Chili Con Carne again, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the sauce if needed and keep it tasting fresh.

FAQs

Can I make Chili Con Carne without beans?

Absolutely! While kidney beans add texture and balance, you can simply omit them if you prefer a bean-free chili. It will still be delicious and rich in flavor with the beef and spices.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken work as leaner alternatives, and for a vegetarian version, try crumbled tofu or cooked lentils to keep that hearty texture without the meat.

How spicy is Chili Con Carne?

The dish is typically mildly spicy, but you can easily adjust the chili powder or add fresh chili peppers to increase heat according to your preference.

Is Chili Con Carne suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Since the flavors deepen over time, Chili Con Carne is perfect for meal prepping. It tastes even better the next day and stores well in the fridge or freezer.

Can I make Chili Con Carne in a slow cooker?

Yes, just brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for tender, well-developed flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so satisfying about a bowl of well-made Chili Con Carne—it’s comforting, flavorful, and downright addictive. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether you’re making it for family, friends, or just because you deserve something delicious. Once you do, I’m pretty sure it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen too!