Chili Con Carne is a hearty and comforting dish packed with tender ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of warm spices. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with a rich, inviting smell that makes you feel right at home. With its thick, slightly spicy sauce and chunks of soft beans and meat, it’s a classic that’s loved in many kitchens.
I’ve always found that making chili Con Carne is a great way to bring people together. I like to let it simmer for a long time so all the flavors can blend perfectly—it really turns into something special. Sometimes I add a bit of dark chocolate or a splash of beer to deepen the taste. It’s fun to experiment and find little tweaks that make it your own. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day.
My favorite way to enjoy chili Con Carne is with a big spoonful over warm rice, or topped with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. I also love serving it with some crunchy tortilla chips on the side because the contrast in textures is just great. It’s such a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days or when you want something filling and full of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish for its rich flavor and texture. If you prefer, ground turkey or plant-based meat make great swaps for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Kidney Beans: They add creaminess and protein. If you don’t have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans work well too.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes keep the chili saucy and fresh-tasting. You can use crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture or fresh tomatoes when in season.
Spices: Cumin, paprika, and chili powder create the classic chili flavor. Don’t skip toasting them with tomato paste—it brings out their aroma. Adjust chili powder and cayenne for your heat level.
Beef Broth: Adds depth to the flavor. Water works as a substitute but broth makes the chili richer.
How Do You Build Deep Flavor in Chili Con Carne?
Layering flavors step-by-step helps make chili taste amazing.
- Sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant for a flavorful base.
- Brown the ground beef well to develop a rich, savory taste.
- Toast spices with tomato paste—this unlocks their oils and boosts the aroma.
- Simmer the chili for at least 30 minutes, giving time for ingredients to mingle and thicken.
If you can, let the chili simmer longer on low heat or even refrigerate overnight for even better flavor. Simple steps like these make your chili warm, tasty, and comforting every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven – great for even heat and slow simmering.
- Wooden spoon – perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Sharp chef’s knife – makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy.
- Cutting board – provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.
- Can opener – essential for opening canned tomatoes and beans.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter chili option.
- Add diced bell peppers or corn for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Stir in a few squares of dark chocolate to deepen the chili’s rich flavor.
- Mix in cooked black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans for variety.
How to Make Chili Con Carne?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for serving)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili con carne recipe takes around 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and about 40 minutes to cook, including simmering. Total time is roughly 50 minutes. The simmering time allows the flavors to blend together beautifully. You can also let it simmer longer for even deeper flavors if you have time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you smell that wonderful aroma.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with your spoon and cook for 7-8 minutes until it’s browned and cooked all the way through. Drain any extra fat if there’s a lot.
3. Add Spices and Tomato Paste:
Mix in the tomato paste along with ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook everything together for 1-2 minutes, letting the spices toast a bit to release their flavors.
4. Combine Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, the drained kidney beans, and the beef broth. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and cover the pot partially with a lid. Let it cook slowly for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps all the flavors come together and the chili to thicken.
6. Taste and Finish:
Give your chili a taste and adjust the salt or chili powder if you want a little more kick. When it’s ready, spoon it into bowls and add your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and a squeeze of lime if you like.
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of chili con carne with some tortilla chips, rice, or crusty bread for a perfect meal!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for Chili Con Carne?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents excess moisture in the chili.
Can I Make Chili Con Carne Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Make it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Chili Con Carne?
Chili goes great with tortilla chips, steamed rice, crusty bread, or even baked potatoes. Add toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime to enhance the flavors.
