Chilli Con Carne is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture yourself wrapped in a cozy blanket, surrounded by the rich, spicy aroma of simmering beef, beans, and tomatoes. Crock pot birria tacos It’s that perfect blend of heat and heartiness that makes every spoonful feel like a fiesta in your mouth.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together!</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the origin of Chilli Con Carne?
- Can I make Chilli Con Carne vegetarian?
- How long does Chilli Con Carne last in the fridge?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply craving comfort food after a long day, Chilli Con Carne promises to deliver. This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating memories and sharing laughter over bowls brimming with flavor. Healthy Greek ground chicken bowls So grab your apron and get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chilli Con Carne recipe is both simple and satisfying, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- Each bite bursts with spices that dance on your palate
- The vibrant colors make it eye-catching and Instagram-worthy on any dinner table
- Enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve with rice, tortillas, or cornbread for added fun
My friends still rave about the time I made this Chilli Con Carne for a potluck—everyone went back for seconds (and thirds).
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose high-quality ground beef for optimal flavor; I prefer using 80/20 for its rich taste. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Beef Wraps recipe.
- Red Kidney Beans: Canned beans save time; just rinse them well before adding to avoid excess sodium.
- Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for texture; their juicy sweetness balances the heat beautifully. Turkey taco stuffed sweet potatoes.
- Onions: A must-have in any chili; sauté until they’re sweet and translucent for maximum flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; don’t skimp on this aromatic powerhouse!
- Chili Powder: The star of the show! Use your preferred blend to tailor the spice level to your liking.
- Cumin: This earthy spice adds warmth and complexity; it’s almost like a secret ingredient!
- Bell Peppers: Diced green bell peppers contribute crunch and sweetness; you can mix colors for visual appeal.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing the savory base.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing; its light fruitiness complements the robust flavors of the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all other flavors—don’t forget to taste as you go!
- Optional Toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped cilantro provide great finishing touches!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together!
Sauté the Base Ingredients: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened. The aroma will be irresistible!
Add Garlic and Ground Beef: Toss in minced garlic followed by ground beef. Brown until fully cooked and crumbly. You want those browned bits at the bottom—they add flavor!
Add Your Spices: Sprinkle chili powder and cumin over the meat mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly with those fragrant spices.
Pour in Tomatoes and Broth: Add canned tomatoes along with their juices and beef broth. Stir everything together as it begins to bubble invitingly.
Add Beans: Gently fold in the rinsed kidney beans; let them soak up all that lovely chili goodness as it simmers.
Lentil Simmer Time: Reduce heat and let your Chilli Con Carne simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally until thickened—this is when all those flavors meld together beautifully!
With every step, you’ll notice how each ingredient contributes its unique voice to this symphony of flavor—like a well-rehearsed band ready to perform!
Serve your Chilli Con Carne hot with your favorite toppings, maybe some tortilla chips on the side? Your family will be singing its praises before they even finish their first bowl!
You Must Know
- Chilli Con Carne is a hearty meal that warms both the heart and soul
- This dish is perfect for gatherings, providing a comforting aroma that lingers in the kitchen
- The blend of spices creates an irresistible flavor that’s utterly satisfying
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat first, then add onions and garlic before spices to enhance flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap beef with turkey or add beans for extra texture and protein.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat on low heat for best flavor retention.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When cooking Chilli Con Carne, always brown the meat properly; it builds depth in flavor
- Use fresh herbs to brighten up the dish
- If it’s too spicy, balance with a bit of sugar for sweetness
Sharing my first attempt at Chilli Con Carne reminds me of my friend’s surprised face when he asked if I had a secret family recipe. Salsa verde chicken rice skillet.
FAQ
What is the origin of Chilli Con Carne?
Chilli Con Carne originated in Texas and combines influences from Mexican cuisine. For more inspiration, check out this Savory Mexican Birria Tacos recipe.
Can I make Chilli Con Carne vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute meat with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
How long does Chilli Con Carne last in the fridge?
It can last up to 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Chilli Con Carne
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Chilli Con Carne is a hearty, satisfying dish that combines tender ground beef, flavorful beans, and zesty spices for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe not only warms the soul but also brings everyone together around the dinner table. With vibrant colors and bold flavors, each bowl is a celebration of comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and green bell pepper until softened.
- Add minced garlic and ground beef; brown until fully cooked and crumbly.
- Stir in chili powder and cumin, mixing well.
- Pour in canned tomatoes with juices and beef broth; stir to combine.
- Fold in rinsed kidney beans and simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes until thickened.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
