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A hearty bowl of Chili Con Carne topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

Chili Con Carne

A hearty, flavorful Chili Con Carne with tender beef and a delicious, spicy sauce.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Simmer Time 3 hours
Total Time 6 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 583kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: beef chili, Chili Con, chili con carne, comfort food, Con Carne, hearty chili, spicy chili
Cost: $18

🛒 Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder for spice and depth of flavor
  • 1 tablespoon cumin adds earthy warmth
  • 2 teaspoons oregano for a herby kick
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper adds heat
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional for extra heat
  • 3 lbs. boneless beef chuck cut into chunks tender beef for slow cooking
  • Salt and pepper to taste season to preference
  • cup flour helps thicken the chili
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil for searing the beef
  • 12 oz. beer preferably pale ale see notes
  • 2 tablespoons butter for sautéing vegetables
  • 1 yellow onion diced (adds sweetness)
  • 2 jalapeno peppers diced adds heat and flavor
  • 1 green bell pepper diced for crunch and freshness
  • 4 cloves garlic minced aromatic base
  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar balances the heat
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste intensifies tomato flavor
  • 2 tablespoons masa harina optional for thickening and flavor see notes
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce adds depth
  • 2 teaspoons hot sauce adds spice
  • 4 cups beef broth for liquid base
  • 28 oz. crushed tomatoes rich tomato flavor
  • 10 oz. diced tomatoes with green chilies undrained adds texture and heat
  • 2 bay leaves for flavor infusion
  • 16 oz. kidney beans drained adds bulk and texture

📋 Instructions

  • Combine the chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed, then set aside.
  • Pat the beef chunks dry and season with salt, pepper, and 2 teaspoons of the seasoning mixture. Toss to coat. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and toss again.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. In batches, sear the beef until it is browned on all sides, about 1 to 1 ½ minutes per batch. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing. Remove and set aside.
  • Pour in the beer and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it bubble and reduce by half, about 7-8 minutes.
  • Add the butter, diced onions, jalapenos, and green bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
  • Stir in the remaining seasoning mix, garlic, brown sugar, tomato paste, masa harina (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to incorporate the flavors.
  • Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with chilies, beef broth, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Return the seared beef to the pot along with any juices.
  • Simmer the chili uncovered for 3 to 3 ½ hours, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken as it cooks.
  • Once the chili has thickened to your liking, stir in the drained kidney beans and heat for 10-15 minutes.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If desired, add more brown sugar, spices, or hot sauce.
  • Remove the bay leaves before serving. Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, or other toppings of your choice.

📝 Notes

Perfect for meal prepping and makes great leftovers. Serve with your favorite toppings for a cozy meal!

🥗 Nutrition

Serving: 400g | Calories: 583kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 43g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 125mg | Sodium: 1238mg | Potassium: 1452mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 1446IU | Vitamin C: 33mg | Calcium: 141mg | Iron: 9mg