Chili Con Carne is a hearty and comforting dish full of bold flavors and a nice kick of spice. It’s packed with tender ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of chili powder and other spices that come together to make a rich, thick sauce. The warmth and depth of this chili make it perfect for chilly nights or anytime you want a filling, satisfying meal.
I love making Chili Con Carne when I want something that feels like a big, tasty hug in a bowl. It’s one of those recipes where you can adjust the spice level to your liking, so whether you like it mild or with a strong bite, it’s easy to make it just right. I usually let it simmer for a while so all the flavors get cozy with each other—the longer, the better in my opinion!
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this chili is with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream on top, plus some crunchy tortilla chips on the side. It’s perfect for sharing at family dinners, game day gatherings, or even for meal prepping since it tastes great as leftovers. Having a big pot of Chili Con Carne around just makes me feel ready for anything.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein that adds richness. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. For a vegetarian take, try crumbled tofu or cooked lentils instead.
Kidney Beans: They bring a creamy texture and some heartiness. Black beans or pinto beans are great substitutes and keep that classic chili vibe.
Chili Powder & Spices: Chili powder is a blend that gives the chili its heat and flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine. Adjust cayenne for your heat preference or leave it out for mild chili.
Tomatoes & Tomato Paste: Diced tomatoes provide a fresh and tangy base, while tomato paste thickens and deepens the sauce. You can use crushed tomatoes if that’s what you have.
How Do You Get Rich, Deep Flavor in Chili Con Carne?
Building flavor starts with gently cooking onions and garlic in oil to soften and release their sweetness. Then browning the ground beef is key—it adds texture and a meaty taste through caramelization.
- Cook onions until translucent before adding spices so they bloom in the fat.
- Toast the spices with the beef for 1-2 minutes to release aromas.
- Simmer the chili low and slow for at least 30 minutes—this helps the flavors meld and sauce thicken.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and taste midway to adjust seasoning.
Taking your time with these steps makes your chili rich, balanced, and delicious every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – perfect for even heat and simmering your chili without burning.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – great for stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
- Chef’s knife – to chop onions, garlic, and peppers easily and safely.
- Cutting board – keeps your workspace clean and organized while prepping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter chili option that still packs flavor.
- Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers for a smokier, spicier chili experience.
- Mix in corn kernels for a sweet crunch and added texture.
- Stir in black beans or pinto beans along with or instead of kidney beans to vary the taste and texture.
How to Make Chili Con Carne
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 (14 oz/400 g) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14 oz/400 g) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving
Time Needed:
This chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and roughly 40 minutes to simmer. In total, plan for about 55 minutes from start to finish. Simmering longer can deepen the flavors, so if you have more time, let it cook gently for up to an hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and clear. Then add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant and tender.
2. Brown the Beef:
Turn the heat up to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Spices and Develop Flavor:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if you like it spicy), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 1–2 minutes so the spices toast lightly and release their aroma.
4. Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth:
Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, and beef broth or water. Mix everything together thoroughly.
5. Simmer Your Chili:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 30 minutes to 1 hour, stirring now and then. This helps the flavors combine and the sauce to thicken.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your chili a taste and add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you want it stronger or spicier. Simmer a bit more if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy this warm and comforting dish!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for Chili Con Carne?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents excess liquid from making the chili watery.
Can I Make Chili Con Carne Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Substitute for Kidney Beans?
Black beans or pinto beans both work well as tasty alternatives. Just drain and rinse canned beans before adding to the chili.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Start with less chili powder and cayenne pepper if you prefer mild chili, and add more gradually to suit your taste. You can also add fresh or pickled jalapeños for extra heat.
