Chili Con Carne: 1 Amazing Dinner Recipe

Name: Chili Con Carne: 1 Amazing Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean); 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spicy chili); Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, jalapeños

by Jannet Lisa

10 de October de 2025

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Chili Con Carne has a special place in my heart, evoking memories of chilly evenings and family gatherings around a warm, comforting meal. I remember my dad, a true chili enthusiast, spending hours perfecting his signature recipe, filling our home with the irresistible aroma of simmering spices and rich beef. This isn’t just any beef chili; it’s a dish that brings people together, a true classic comfort food. I’ve discovered over the years that the secret to an truly authentic chili con carne lies in patience and a blend of quality ingredients, allowing those deep flavors to meld beautifully. This easy ground beef chili recipe is my take on that beloved tradition, simplified for your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chili Con Carne

I promise, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my kitchen. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience!

This is hands down the best chili con carne recipe I’ve ever made, bursting with rich, savory flavors that deepen with every bite.
It’s an easy chili con carne recipe to follow, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. You won’t believe how simple it is!
It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s incredibly budget-friendly, making it ideal for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
This recipe is wonderfully versatile; you can adjust the spice level to please everyone, making it incredibly family-friendly.
The prep time is minimal, allowing for more time to enjoy with loved ones.
It’s packed with protein and fiber, offering a wholesome and comforting meal option.

Ingredients for Homemade Chili Con Carne

Gathering the right chili con carne ingredients is the first step to creating this flavorful dish. I’ve found that using quality components truly elevates the final taste and texture of your homemade chili. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing our aromatic veggies.
1 large onion, chopped – provides a sweet and savory base.
3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that deep, aromatic flavor.
1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean) – I prefer 80/20 for richness; don’t go too lean or it can dry out.
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes – the backbone of our rich sauce.
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed – adds substance and a creamy texture.
1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed – another hearty bean, complementing the kidney beans well.
1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies – for a mild, underlying chili warmth.
1 cup beef broth – to create a luscious, simmered consistency.
2 tablespoons chili powder – the star spice, giving our chili its classic flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – adds an earthy, smoky depth.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – for an extra layer of smoky goodness.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spicy chili) – if you like a little kick, this is your secret weapon!
Salt and black pepper to taste – always season as you go.
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, jalapeños – these are my go-to garnishes for the ultimate chili experience.

How to Make Chili Con Carne

Making a delicious pot of homemade chili con carne is a truly satisfying experience. I’ll walk you through each step to ensure your beef chili recipe turns out perfectly. The aroma alone as it simmers will make your kitchen feel like home.

Step 1: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your chopped onion and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. I love how the kitchen starts to smell so inviting at this stage!
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for just another minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.
Step 3: Now, add the 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. You’ll want to brown it thoroughly, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pot to keep your chili from being greasy.
Step 4: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced green chilies, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Step 5: It’s time for the spices! Add the chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. If you’re craving a truly spicy chili with meat, now is the moment to add that cayenne pepper. Mix all these wonderful flavors together until they are well incorporated into your beef chili recipe.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover your pot and let it cook for at least 1 hour, or even up to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. This long, slow simmer is where the magic happens, allowing all the flavors to meld and deepen for an incredible chili con carne.
Step 7: Before serving, taste your chili con carne and season with salt and black pepper as needed. I always adjust this to my preference right at the end.
Step 8: Serve your hot chili con carne with your favorite toppings. This easy beef chili recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner.

Pro Tips for the Best Chili Con Carne

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that will elevate your chili con carne from good to absolutely amazing. These expert tips will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time you make this delicious dish.

Always brown your ground beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients; this builds a foundational layer of flavor.
Don’t rush the simmer! The longer your chili cooks on low heat, the more the flavors will meld and deepen, creating a richer taste.
Use a combination of beans for varied texture and nutrition; I find kidney and pinto beans work wonderfully together.
Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process, especially before serving.

What’s the secret to perfect Traditional Chili Con Carne?

The real secret to a perfect, truly classic chili con carne lies in patience and allowing the flavors to meld. I always let my chili simmer for at least an hour, or even longer if I have the time. This slow cooking process extracts every bit of flavor from the spices and beef, creating an incredibly rich and complex dish.

Can I make Chili Con Carne ahead of time?

Absolutely, and I highly recommend it! Chili con carne almost always tastes better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop and deepen. I often make a big batch on Sunday, let it cool completely, and then store it in the fridge for easy weeknight meals. It’s a fantastic meal prep option.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Homemade Chili Con Carne?

One common mistake I see is not draining the beef fat, which can make your homemade chili con carne greasy. Another is over-mixing the chili, which can break down the beans too much. Also, be sure to use fresh, quality spices, as old spices lose their potency and won’t give your chili the vibrant flavor it deserves.

Hearty Chili Con Carne simmering in a pot, showcasing rich texture and color, an amazing dinner recipe

Best Ways to Serve Chili Con Carne

Once your rich and flavorful chili con carne is ready, the serving possibilities are endless! I love how versatile this dish is, making it perfect for various meals and occasions. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this hearty meal that doubles as a fantastic Mexican beef stew recipe.

For a classic presentation, I often serve a generous bowl of chili topped with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. A side of warm cornbread or crispy tortilla chips for dipping is always a hit! It’s the ultimate comfort food experience.

Another fantastic option is to use your chili con carne as a topping. It’s incredible over baked potatoes, hot dogs, or even nachos for a fun twist. The robust flavors of this beef chili pair wonderfully with a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Nutrition Facts for Chili Con Carne

I find it helpful to know the nutritional breakdown of my favorite dishes. This homemade chili con carne offers a hearty and satisfying meal. Per serving (this recipe makes 6 servings), here’s what you can expect:

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 12g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 850mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

Nutritional values for this chili con carne are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

How to Store and Reheat Chili Con Carne

One of the best things about making a big batch of chili con carne is having delicious leftovers for days! I always make extra because this dish tastes even better the next day. Proper storage ensures your chili stays fresh and flavorful.

First, allow your chili con carne to cool down completely to room temperature before storing. This usually takes about an hour or two. Once cooled, transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

If you’re planning for longer-term storage, chili con carne freezes exceptionally well. I like to portion it into individual servings in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.

For reheating, I prefer to gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through, until piping hot. This works great for a quick lunch if you’ve made a slow cooker chili con carne batch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chili Con Carne

What is chili con carne?

At its heart, chili con carne is a hearty and savory stew, originating from Texas, though heavily influenced by Mexican flavors. The name itself, “chili with meat” in Spanish, perfectly describes this comforting dish. It typically features ground beef simmered in a rich, spiced tomato sauce, often with beans, and a blend of chili powder, cumin, and other aromatic spices. It’s truly a classic comfort food that I find incredibly satisfying.

Why is it called chili con carne?

The name chili con carne directly translates from Spanish to “chili with meat,” which accurately reflects its primary ingredients. The “chili” refers to the chili peppers and chili powder that form the dish’s distinctive spicy and earthy flavor profile, while “con carne” specifies the inclusion of meat, usually beef. I love how the name clearly tells you exactly what you’re getting in this delicious, robust meal.

Can I make chili con carne vegetarian?

While traditional chili con carne always includes meat, you can certainly adapt the recipe to be vegetarian or vegan! I’ve made delicious versions by swapping the ground beef for plant-based crumbles, extra beans, lentils, or even hearty mushrooms. Just remember to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it entirely meat-free. The spices and slow simmer still create an incredibly flavorful dish.

What makes this chili con carne authentic?

For me, an authentic chili con carne hinges on a few key elements: a rich, deep chili flavor from a quality chili powder blend, tender beef, and a long, slow simmer. While some purists argue against beans, I find they add wonderful texture and heartiness, making it more akin to the regional styles I’ve come to love. My recipe focuses on balancing those robust flavors for a truly satisfying and traditional taste.

Variations of Chili Con Carne You Can Try

While my classic chili con carne recipe is a favorite, I love experimenting with different variations to keep things exciting in the kitchen. There are so many ways to adapt this comforting dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

For those looking for a lighter option, a healthy chili con carne recipe can easily be achieved. I often swap out the ground beef for leaner ground turkey or even a mix of ground turkey and finely chopped mushrooms. You can also load it up with extra vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and zucchini for added nutrients and fiber, making it a vibrant and wholesome meal.

If you’re a fan of convenience, converting this to a slow cooker chili is incredibly easy. Simply brown the beef and onions as directed, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours. It’s perfect for busy days!

For a different flavor profile, consider adding a smoky chipotle pepper for an extra kick or a touch of unsweetened cocoa powder to deepen the richness. You can also experiment with different types of beans or even add a splash of dark beer for a truly unique and robust chili con carne.