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A hearty bowl of Chili Con Carne topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

Chili Con Carne

A hearty, flavorful Chili Con Carne with tender beef and a delicious, spicy sauce.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: beef chili, Chili Con, chili con carne, comfort food, Con Carne, hearty chili, spicy chili
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Simmer Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 583kcal
Cost: $18

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder for spice and depth of flavor
  • 1 tablespoon cumin adds earthy warmth
  • 2 teaspoons oregano for a herby kick
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper adds heat
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional for extra heat
  • 3 lbs. boneless beef chuck cut into chunks tender beef for slow cooking
  • Salt and pepper to taste season to preference
  • cup flour helps thicken the chili
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil for searing the beef
  • 12 oz. beer preferably pale ale see notes
  • 2 tablespoons butter for sautéing vegetables
  • 1 yellow onion diced (adds sweetness)
  • 2 jalapeno peppers diced adds heat and flavor
  • 1 green bell pepper diced for crunch and freshness
  • 4 cloves garlic minced aromatic base
  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar balances the heat
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste intensifies tomato flavor
  • 2 tablespoons masa harina optional for thickening and flavor see notes
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce adds depth
  • 2 teaspoons hot sauce adds spice
  • 4 cups beef broth for liquid base
  • 28 oz. crushed tomatoes rich tomato flavor
  • 10 oz. diced tomatoes with green chilies undrained adds texture and heat
  • 2 bay leaves for flavor infusion
  • 16 oz. kidney beans drained adds bulk and texture

Instructions

  • Combine the chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed, then set aside.
  • Pat the beef chunks dry and season with salt, pepper, and 2 teaspoons of the seasoning mixture. Toss to coat. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and toss again.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. In batches, sear the beef until it is browned on all sides, about 1 to 1 ½ minutes per batch. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing. Remove and set aside.
  • Pour in the beer and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it bubble and reduce by half, about 7-8 minutes.
  • Add the butter, diced onions, jalapenos, and green bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
  • Stir in the remaining seasoning mix, garlic, brown sugar, tomato paste, masa harina (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to incorporate the flavors.
  • Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with chilies, beef broth, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Return the seared beef to the pot along with any juices.
  • Simmer the chili uncovered for 3 to 3 ½ hours, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken as it cooks.
  • Once the chili has thickened to your liking, stir in the drained kidney beans and heat for 10-15 minutes.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If desired, add more brown sugar, spices, or hot sauce.
  • Remove the bay leaves before serving. Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, or other toppings of your choice.

Notes

Perfect for meal prepping and makes great leftovers. Serve with your favorite toppings for a cozy meal!

Nutrition

Serving: 400g | Calories: 583kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 43g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 125mg | Sodium: 1238mg | Potassium: 1452mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 1446IU | Vitamin C: 33mg | Calcium: 141mg | Iron: 9mg