Looking for a cozy and comforting dinner? This Hearty Chili Con Carne is loaded with ground beef, kidney beans, and rich spices. It’s the perfect one-pot meal for a chilly evening or anytime you crave a satisfying, flavorful dish.
Ingredients for Hearty Chili Con Carne:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (learn more about beans)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin (discover the benefits of cumin)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup sour cream (for garnish)
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How to Make Hearty Chili Con Carne
- Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. - Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. - Add Spices
Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt. Let the spices cook for 2-3 minutes to release their flavors. - Simmer the Chili
Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir everything together, bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. - Serve
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh cilantro.For a complete Tex-Mex meal, serve this with our easy cornbread recipe!
Tips for the Best Chili Con Carne:
- For extra flavor, try using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- Want more heat? Add more cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to spice things up.
- Leftovers taste even better! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Recipe Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
This Hearty Chili Con Carne is a classic, savory dish perfect for cold nights and easy enough for weeknight cooking.