Ultimate Easy Chili Con Carne Recipe: A Hearty Classic Made from Scratch

If you’re searching for a delicious and easy Chili con carne recipe that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds, look no further! This classic Tex-Mex dish has its roots in the southwestern United States, where it has been enjoyed for generations. Combining savory ground meat, flavorful spices, and robust beans, Chili con carne is not just a meal—it’s a celebration of rich culinary heritage and comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, a cozy family dinner, or simply craving something spicy and satisfying, this homemade Chili con carne from scratch is sure to please everyone around the table!

This recipe caters to various dietary preferences. You can opt for traditional beef, try a hearty turkey version, or even whip up a vegan Chili con carne that’s so flavorful you won’t miss the meat. With its versatile ingredients and delightful blending of spices, our Chili con carne will become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Serving Size: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Base:

1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium bell pepper (red or green), diced

Spices and Seasonings:

2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Beans and Tomatoes:

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 cup beef or vegetable broth

Optional Garnishes:

Chopped fresh cilantro
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
Chopped green onions

Ingredient Substitutions:

Feel free to swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegan Chili con carne, substitute the meat with a combination of lentils and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and for added depth, consider adding 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or liquid smoke.

Equipment List

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Can opener

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the Base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes or until softened and translucent.
Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef or turkey to the pot. Stir until the meat is fully browned, approximately 7-10 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break apart any clumps of meat.
Enhance the Flavor: Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the pot. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the veggies soften and the garlic is fragrant. This layer of flavor is essential!
Spice It Up: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper over the mixture. Stir until the spices fully coat the meat and vegetables—this is where the magic begins!
Integrate the Beans and Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, black beans, and broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low and let simmer, uncovered for 30-45 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally and taste to adjust seasonings as needed.
Final Touches: Once thickened to your desired consistency, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly. This small step enhances the flavor.

Special Notes

Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze Chili con carne for up to 3 months—just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating: To reheat, simply place in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to loosen the chili. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Troubleshooting: If your chili is too thick, add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too soupy, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow some moisture to evaporate.

Variations and Customizations

This easy Chili con carne recipe is quite versatile:

Vegan Option: Use lentils or mushrooms as a meat alternative, and vegetable broth.
Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, particularly spice mixes, are labeled gluten-free.
Low-Carb: Replace beans with diced zucchini or cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
Extra Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or use spicier chili powder for a kick!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this hearty Chili con carne contains approximately:

Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 10g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare your Chili con carne, imagine the glorious colors of the fresh vegetables, the rich, deep red of the tomatoes, and the warm spices blending to create a wholesome mixture. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, a warm embrace of cumin and chili that signals the promise of a satisfying meal. When it’s ready to serve, the chili should be thick, chunky, and exuding the mouthwatering aroma that draws everyone to the table. Drizzle with sour cream and sprinkle with cilantro for a pop of color that invites your family to dig in.

Conclusion

This easy Chili con carne recipe is perfect for any occasion—be it family gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or meal-prepping for the week ahead. Its hearty flavors and simple preparation make it a favorite for both novice and experienced cooks alike. We hope you enjoy making this classic dish as much as we do! If you tried this recipe, leave a comment below, or share your customized version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish. Happy cooking!

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