Chili Con Carne is a timeless, soul-warming dish that brings bold flavors and cozy comfort to any table. This hearty stew, packed with ground beef, kidney beans, and canned tomatoes, simmers with aromatic chili powder to create a meal that’s both satisfying and versatile.
Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. Serve it with cornbread or over rice, and top with sour cream or cheddar cheese for extra richness. Its scalable recipe makes it ideal for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for quick, flavorful meals.
This dish stands out for its adjustable spice level, allowing you to tailor it to your family’s preferences. The thick, hearty texture and robust flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, while its simplicity ensures even novice cooks can master it.
For those looking to support their metabolism and maintain a healthy weight, consider pairing this meal with supplements like Moringa Actives or Keto Actives to enhance your wellness journey.
See also: 20 Easy Dinner Recipes For Family
Ingredients for Chili Con Carne
To make this delicious Chili Con Carne, gather the following ingredients. Each item is linked to a high-quality option for your convenience:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for optimal flavor)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) canned tomatoes, diced
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- Olive oil for cooking
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Green onions, sliced
- Jalapeños, sliced
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
To prepare this Chili Con Carne, you’ll need the following kitchen tools. Each is linked to a reliable product to streamline your cooking process:
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Can opener
- Ladle for serving
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cup
See also: Best Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering Chili Con Carne that will have everyone asking for seconds:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing the onion and green bell pepper. Mince the garlic. Drain and rinse the kidney beans. Having all ingredients prepped will make the cooking process seamless.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the Dutch oven. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Add Spices
Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to coat and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their flavor.
Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Add the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 6: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of beef broth.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more chili powder or cayenne pepper for extra heat, or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle the chili into bowls using a ladle. Serve with cornbread or over rice. Top with sour cream, cheddar cheese, green onions, or jalapeños for added flair.
Tips for the Perfect Chili Con Carne
- Adjust the Heat: Customize the spice level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper or adding fresh jalapeños.
- Make Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This recipe freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for plant-based meat or extra beans for a vegetarian version.
- Boost Metabolism: Pair this meal with Fat Burn Active to support your weight loss goals while enjoying hearty dishes.
See also: Easy Baked Ziti Recipe
Nutritional Facts
Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings, without toppings):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 5g)
- Carbohydrates: 30g (Dietary Fiber: 8g, Sugars: 6g)
- Sodium: 900mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Vitamin A: 20% DV
- Vitamin C: 30% DV
- Iron: 25% DV
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes. For precise values, use a nutritional calculator with your exact ingredients.
To support digestive health and weight management, consider incorporating Probiosin Plus into your routine. Its probiotic properties can enhance gut health, complementing the fiber-rich kidney beans in this recipe.
FAQs About Chili Con Carne
1. Can I make Chili Con Carne in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer to a slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. How can I make Chili Con Carne less spicy?
Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use mild chili powder. Adding more tomato sauce or a dollop of sour cream when serving can also mellow the heat.
3. What’s the difference between Chili Con Carne and regular chili?
Chili Con Carne specifically includes meat (usually ground beef) and chiles, while “regular” chili may be vegetarian or include a wider variety of beans and vegetables.
4. Can I use different beans in Chili Con Carne?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or a mix for variety.
5. How do I store leftover Chili Con Carne?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in a microwave. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
See also: The Best Beef Tacos
Conclusion
This Chili Con Carne recipe is a go-to for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. Its rich, spicy profile and satisfying texture make it a staple for family dinners, game days, or meal prep. With the right tools, like a trusty Dutch oven, and quality ingredients, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress.
For those focused on wellness, enhance your meal with supplements like Cappuccino MCT for a metabolism boost or Fibre Select to support digestion. These additions can help you maintain your health goals while enjoying indulgent flavors. Try this recipe today and savor the warmth of homemade Chili Con Carne.
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