Short introduction
Chili con carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground meat, beans, and spices for a comforting meal. It’s a classic comfort food often enjoyed warm on a chilly night, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This recipe is easy to make and can be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Why you’ll love it
You’ll love this chili con carne because it is versatile and can be prepared in under an hour, making it a quick meal option. This dish is packed with protein and fiber from beans and meat, which helps keep you full for longer. Additionally, chili con carne can easily be made in large batches, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/vegetarian substitute)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro
Substitutions & key variations
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- You can choose black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, use canned lentils or mushrooms in place of meat.
- Spice it up by adding jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Cook the meat
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Step 2: Add spices
Once the meat is browned, stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the meat is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 3: Combine ingredients
Add the drained kidney beans and diced tomatoes (including juice) to the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer
Turn the heat down to low and let the chili simmer for at least 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld. If you want it thicker, let it cook uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
Success tips
- Temperature: Make sure to cook the meat thoroughly until it is no longer pink.
- Texture: For a smoother chili, you can blend part of the mixture before serving, or use an immersion blender.
- Common mistakes: Avoid overcooking it; frequent stirring is not necessary. Just let it simmer undisturbed for the best results.
How to serve
Serve the chili con carne hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or chopped green onions. Pair it with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chili con carne in advance?
Yes! Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend. You can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat before serving.
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
You can use dried beans, but they must be soaked and cooked beforehand, which takes additional time.
Is chili con carne spicy?
It can be adjusted according to your taste. You can add hot peppers or leave out the chili powder for a milder version.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything into a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is chili con carne gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free spices and toppings, chili con carne can easily be made gluten-free.
Nutrition notes / equivalents (optional)
Chili con carne is rich in protein and fiber. Each serving typically provides about 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It’s also a good source of iron and zinc, especially when using beef.
Conclusion
Chili con carne is a delicious and filling meal that you can make quickly. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks, pleasing even the pickiest eaters. Try making your own chili con carne today and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!
Links to related recipes
- Classic Beef Stew Recipe
- Easy Chicken Tacos
- Vegetarian Lentil Chili
- Spicy Sausage and Bean Soup
Chili con Carne
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/vegetarian substitute) Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed Can substitute with black beans or pinto beans.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes Include juice.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder Adjust quantity for desired heat.
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Optional toppings
- shredded cheese
- sour cream
- green onions
- cilantro
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Cooking
- Once the meat is browned, stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained kidney beans and diced tomatoes (including juice) to the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
- Turn the heat down to low and let the chili simmer for at least 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. If you want it thicker, let it cook uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.