Warm up with this hearty Chili Con Carne recipe! A flavorful, comforting dish packed with spices, beans, and beef – perfect for cold weather nights.
There is nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Chili Con Carne on a cold evening. This dish has a way of warming both the body and the soul. It combines the richness of tender ground beef with a flavorful blend of spices, beans, and tomatoes. The result is a meal that feels hearty, filling, and deeply satisfying. Chili Con Carne is more than just comfort food—it’s a tradition, a recipe that brings families and friends together around the table.
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can make it mild or fiery, depending on your taste preferences. Add extra beans for more fiber and texture, or keep it meat-heavy for a rich and robust flavor. It’s also a dish that gets even better the next day, as the spices have more time to develop. Whether served with rice, crusty bread, or tortilla chips, this chili is a cold-weather classic that never fails to impress.
Cooking a batch on the weekend ensures you have leftovers for busy weeknights. It freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. With its bold flavors and cozy appeal, Chili Con Carne truly is the ultimate winter comfort food.
Ingredients :
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Directions :
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until softened.
- Stir in the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned.
- Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, and oregano. Cook for 1–2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Add diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well.
- Pour in the beef broth, then add kidney beans and black beans.
- Season with salt and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once thickened and flavorful, remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve hot with rice, bread, or tortilla chips.
How to Prepare :
Preparation begins with chopping your vegetables—onion, garlic, and bell pepper. This creates the aromatic base. Browning the ground beef is key, as it develops a deep, savory flavor. When adding the spices, let them toast for a moment in the heat to release their natural oils. This step intensifies the chili’s flavor.
The combination of tomatoes, beans, and broth creates the signature hearty texture. Simmering low and slow is important. It allows the flavors to mingle and the chili to thicken naturally. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more cayenne for heat, or balance with a pinch of sugar if it tastes too acidic. By the end, you’ll have a rich, comforting dish ready to warm everyone at the table.
Preparation Time :
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings :
This recipe makes 6 servings. Perfect for a family meal or to save leftovers for the next day.
FAQs :
Q1: Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, in fact, it tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Q2: Can I freeze Chili Con Carne?
Absolutely! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove for best results.
Q3: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Simply replace the beef with lentils, extra beans, or a meat substitute.
Q4: How can I make it less spicy?
Reduce or skip the cayenne pepper and chili powder. You can also add a dollop of sour cream when serving.
Q5: What can I serve with Chili Con Carne?
It pairs well with rice, cornbread, tortilla chips, baked potatoes, or even pasta for a twist.
Conclusion :
Hearty Chili Con Carne is more than just a meal—it’s an experience of warmth and comfort. Every spoonful brings a balance of spice, richness, and texture. It’s the kind of dish that makes a cold winter evening feel cozy. By combining beef, beans, spices, and tomatoes, you get a nourishing and flavorful bowl that satisfies every craving.
This recipe is not only easy to make but also flexible to suit different tastes. Whether you like it mild or spicy, chunky or smooth, you can always adjust the ingredients. Plus, its ability to store well makes it a practical dish for families and busy individuals. Imagine walking in from the cold and being greeted by the aroma of simmering chili—it’s pure comfort in a bowl.
So, when the weather turns chilly, grab your pot and make this classic Chili Con Carne. Share it with family, friends, or even keep it all for yourself. It’s one of those timeless recipes that truly makes you feel at home.
Would you like me to also create a shorter social media version of this recipe for your Facebook group, with emojis and a more engaging tone?
