If you are craving a comforting, hearty, and flavor-packed meal, this Chili Con Carne Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender beans, and vibrant peppers in a rich tomato sauce that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is reliably satisfying and easy to customize with your favorite toppings and sides. From its smoky paprika undertones to the gentle kick of cayenne, this Chili Con Carne Recipe is a timeless classic that bursts with bold flavors and simple ingredients that truly sing together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Chili Con Carne Recipe are straightforward yet essential. Each component layers flavor and texture, creating that irresistible balance between savory, spicy, and hearty. From the fragrant garlic to the rich crushed tomatoes, every item plays a starring role in making this dish unforgettable.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing and adding a subtle richness without overpowering the spices.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds a warm, aromatic punch that deepens the flavor.
- 1 onion, diced: Brown, white, or yellow onions provide sweetness and texture to the base.
- 1 red capsicum (bell pepper), diced: A splash of vibrant color and a mild, sweet crunch.
- 1 lb / 500g beef mince / ground beef: The hearty protein that brings body and substance.
- 3 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that enriches the sauce’s depth and color.
- 800g / 28 oz can crushed tomato: The juicy, tangy heart of the dish that combines flavors with a luscious texture.
- 14 oz / 420g can red kidney beans, drained: Adds creaminess and a satisfying bite while complementing the beef.
- 2 beef bouillon cubes, crumbled: Packs in savory umami that boosts the meaty richness.
- 1 1/2 tsp sugar: Balances acidity and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 – 1 1/2 cups / 125 – 375 ml water: Adjusts the consistency depending on cooking preferences.
- 1 – 2 tsp cayenne pepper: Adds that perfect spicy warmth—feel free to tweak to your heat tolerance.
- 4 tsp paprika powder: Smoked or sweet, paprika gives color and a subtle earthiness.
- 5 tsp cumin powder: Essential for that unmistakable chili flavor with its nutty, peppery notes.
- 2 tsp garlic powder: Amplifies garlic richness, especially when cooked longer.
- 2 tsp onion powder: A handy way to deepen onion flavor alongside fresh onions.
- 2 tsp oregano: Brings herbal brightness and ties all spices together.
- 1 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the spices.
- Rice, corn chips, tortillas: Perfect for serving and soaking up all the delicious sauce.
- Sour cream, yogurt, grated cheese, coriander/cilantro: Classic toppings to add creaminess, tang, and freshness.
How to Make Chili Con Carne Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and diced onion, cooking them for about one minute until aromatic. Next, add the diced red capsicum and continue cooking for another two minutes until the onion turns translucent and the capsicum softens a bit. This step lays down a flavorful foundation for your chili, infusing the oil with fragrant goodness that will carry through the whole dish.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Crank the heat to high and add your ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up as it cooks. You want to make sure it browns evenly and thoroughly, which should take a few minutes. Browning the meat not only adds depth with those caramelized bits but also starts building that satisfying meaty flavor that’s central to any great Chili Con Carne Recipe.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the Chili Spice Mix—paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir continuously as the spices toast against the hot beef; this releases their essential oils and intensifies their flavor. This little extra step before adding liquids is key to unlocking those bold, warm flavors that make this chili stand out.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Liquids
Pour in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine everything. Add the drained kidney beans and crumble in the beef bouillon cubes. Pour half a cup of water for a quicker cooking time or one and a half cups if you prefer a slow-cooked stew-like chili. Add the sugar to balance acidity. Bring everything to a gentle simmer so all those flavors start melding together.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
For a quick cook, leave the chili simmering uncovered on medium-low heat for about 20 to 40 minutes, letting it bubble gently and thicken. Alternatively, cover it and slow cook on low heat for between 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Slow cooking allows flavors to deepen and textures to unify beautifully, making your Chili Con Carne recipe all the more luscious.
Step 6: Final Taste and Adjustments
Just before serving, taste your chili and adjust the salt if needed. This final seasoning step ensures every bite has perfectly balanced flavors. The consistency should be rich without being too watery; if it’s too thick, a splash of water can help loosen it up.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your Chili Con Carne hot over steamed rice, or serve it alongside crunchy corn chips or warm tortillas. Top with your favorite garnishes, and you have yourself a bowl of pure comfort and flavor to dig into.
How to Serve Chili Con Carne Recipe
Garnishes
Toppings are where you can really make this Chili Con Carne Recipe your own. Cool dollops of sour cream or thick natural yogurt lighten the heat and add creaminess. Grated cheese melts deliciously on top, adding a savory finish, while fresh coriander or cilantro brings a refreshing, herbaceous note that brightens each spoonful.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up all its rich sauce. Fluffy white or brown rice is a classic choice, providing a comforting backdrop. Crunchy corn chips or soft warm tortillas add textural contrast, perfect for scooping up thick chili. You can even try crusty bread for a rustic touch. These sides make every bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond the bowl, try layering this Chili Con Carne Recipe in nachos: scatter chips on a baking sheet, cover with chili, sprinkle cheese, and bake until bubbly. Or turn it into stuffed peppers by filling halved capsicums with chili and topping with cheese, then baking until golden. For a fun family dinner, serve it as a chili dog topping—just spoon over hot dogs in buns with your favorite garnishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a day, giving you an even tastier lunch or dinner the next time. Make sure to consume within 3 to 4 days to enjoy the freshest taste.
Freezing
This Chili Con Carne Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It’s perfect for batch cooking and quick meals down the line. Frozen chili will keep well for up to 3 months without losing its rich flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. If it has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of water to loosen it up. You can also microwave it covered, pausing to stir every minute or so to heat evenly. Either way, you’ll have a warm and comforting meal ready in no time.
FAQs
Can I make this Chili Con Carne Recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add extra beans and vegetables like mushrooms or lentils. Use vegetable bouillon instead of beef and avoid dairy toppings for a vegan-friendly version.
How spicy is this recipe, and can I adjust it?
This Chili Con Carne Recipe has a moderate kick thanks to the cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding less cayenne for milder chili or more for a bolder spice profile.
What type of beans work best in this chili?
Red kidney beans are classic because they hold their shape and add creaminess, but you can also use black beans, pinto beans, or even a mix depending on your preference.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute with ripe fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to cook them down longer to achieve that rich sauce consistency. Canned crushed tomatoes are convenient and provide consistent flavor year-round.
Is it okay to prepare the Chili Con Carne Recipe in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown your meat and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until flavors meld and chili thickens nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Con Carne Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a warm embrace after a long day. It’s comforting, full of bold flavors, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes and occasions. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this chili delivers every single time. Go ahead—dive in and treat yourself to a bowl of this hearty, delicious goodness.
Print
Chili Con Carne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (Quick Cook) or up to 2 hours (Slow Cook)
- Total Time: 40 minutes (Quick Cook) or up to 2 hours 10 minutes (Slow Cook)
- Yield: 5.5 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
A hearty and flavorful Chili Con Carne recipe featuring ground beef simmered with tomatoes, kidney beans, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a comforting meal served over rice or with corn chips, tortillas, and your favorite toppings like sour cream, cheese, and coriander.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, diced (brown, white, yellow)
- 1 red capsicum (bell pepper), diced
- 1 lb / 500g beef mince / ground beef
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 800g / 28 oz can crushed tomato
- 14 oz / 420g can red kidney beans, drained (or other beans)
- 2 beef bouillon cubes, crumbled
- 1 1/2 tsp sugar (any type)
- 1/2 – 1 1/2 cups / 125 – 375 ml water
- 1 – 2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 4 tsp paprika powder
- 5 tsp cumin powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder (or onion powder)
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp oregano
- 1 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
Serving Suggestions
- Rice
- Corn chips
- Tortillas
- Sour cream or yoghurt
- Grated cheese
- Coriander / cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion. Cook for 1 minute, then add diced red capsicum and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Brown the Beef: Increase heat to high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook while breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it is mostly browned and no longer pink.
- Add Spice Mix: Sprinkle all the listed spices (cayenne pepper, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano) over the browned beef. Stir and cook until the beef is browned all over to release extra flavors from the spices.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Mix in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, crumbled beef bouillon cubes, sugar, and water. For a quick cook, use 1/2 cup (125 ml) water; for slow cook, use 1 1/2 cups (375 ml). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer for Quick Cook: For the quicker version, reduce heat to medium-low, keep the pan uncovered, and let the chili simmer gently for 20 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Or Slow Cook: For slower cooking, cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let the chili simmer very gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. This tenderizes the flavors deeply.
- Season to Taste: Just before serving, adjust the salt as needed to suit your preference.
- Serve: Serve the chili hot over cooked rice, or ladle into bowls alongside corn chips or warm tortillas. Offer toppings like sour cream, grated cheese, and fresh coriander for added flavor.
Notes
- Note 1: Beef bouillon cubes add rich depth of flavor; crumbling them ensures even distribution.
- Note 2: Adjust cayenne pepper quantity according to your preferred spice level.
- Note 3: You can use a slow cooker if you prefer; transfer ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Note 4: Cooking times may vary slightly with different stoves or equipment; adjust accordingly.
- Note 5: Serving with rice, corn chips, or tortillas adds variety and texture to the meal.
- Note 6: Toppings like sour cream, yoghurt, grated cheese, and fresh coriander complement the chili beautifully.
- Note 7: Leftover chili can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
