Thick, hearty, and packed with bold spices, Chili Con Carne is pure comfort food in a bowl. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and let the rich, smoky flavors do all the heavy lifting.
Simmered slowly to develop rich layers of flavor, this classic beef chili is deeply satisfying — the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out. If you love cozy, slow-cooked meals, you might also enjoy our Guinness Beef Stew, another hearty favorite that’s perfect for chilly days.
Perfect for game days, cozy dinners, or anytime you crave something hearty and comforting, homemade Chili Con Carne is easier to make than you might think — and so much better than anything from a can. And if you’re looking for a fresh side to round out the meal, our Greek Salad with Feta Cheese offers a crisp, refreshing contrast.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground beef (450g)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (425g)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (425g)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (15g)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (7g)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (2g)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (1g)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth (240ml)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Classic Chili Con Carne
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and red pepper until softened.
- Add the ground beef, cooking until browned and breaking up lumps with a spoon.
- Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, and kidney beans. Stir well.
- Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot with toppings of your choice.
Handy Tips for Success
- Brown the meat thoroughly — it adds richness and depth.
- Let the chili simmer gently to develop flavor.
- Adjust spices to your heat preference.
Fun Variations to Try
- Add chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
- Stir in a square of dark chocolate for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Try swapping beef for ground turkey or chicken.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
A Taste of the American Southwest
Chili Con Carne originated in the 19th-century Southwest United States, blending Mexican and Texan flavors into one bold, hearty stew.
Originally made with just beef, chilies, and spices, it evolved over time to include beans, tomatoes, and a variety of regional styles — each fiercely defended by chili lovers everywhere.
Best Ways to Serve Chili Con Carne
Ladle hot chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, or crushed tortilla chips.
It’s great on its own or served over rice, baked potatoes, or cornbread.
FAQs About Chili Con Carne
Can I make Chili Con Carne ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting overnight. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I freeze leftover chili?
Absolutely — cool completely, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Is chili better with or without beans?
It’s personal preference! This version includes beans, but true Texas chili traditionally does not.
How spicy is this recipe?
Moderate. You can adjust the cayenne pepper to make it milder or hotter.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Sure — swap beef for crumbled tempeh or use additional beans and veggies.
Final Thoughts
Bold, hearty, and packed with rich flavor, homemade Chili Con Carne is a soul-warming dish that’s as satisfying on chilly nights as it is for weekend gatherings.
One bowl is never enough.
