Chili Con Carne Recipe: 6 Bold Spices That Make a Difference
Introduction
Rich, hearty, and boldly spiced – this chili con carne recipe is comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends at your next get-together, this dish delivers the kind of flavor that makes everyone ask for seconds.
What makes this chili stand out? It’s all about the spices—six powerhouse seasonings that bring warmth, depth, and a little kick to every spoonful. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot wonder that comes together in under an hour. Minimal fuss, maximum flavor.
Fun fact: Chili con carne has roots that trace back to the American Southwest, often linked with Texas cowboy culture. But did you know some early versions didn’t even include beans? Over time, families across generations have added their own twists—this one’s ours. chili con carne recipe
Compared to our equally-loved Creamy Chicken Enchiladas recipe (which you can check out here), this chili con carne recipe leans more into bold, smoky flavors, while still being just as easy to whip up on a weeknight.
Ready to warm things up in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the spicy, savory world of chili con carne!
What is Chili Con Carne?
Ever wondered why it’s called chili con carne? Well, it literally means “chili with meat” in Spanish. Makes sense, right? But wait—why not just call it beef stew with a kick? Maybe because “chili con carne” sounds way more fun (and delicious).
Some say this dish was first created by Texan trailblazers who tossed dried chilies and beef into a pot over an open fire. Whatever the origin, it’s safe to say this meal has stood the test of time. As the saying goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach—and a spicy bowl of chili con carne might just be the shortcut.
So what are you waiting for? Scroll down, gather your spices, and let’s make dinner magic.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Con Carne Recipe
🌶 Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
The real magic of this chili con carne recipe lies in the six bold spices: cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, coriander, and cayenne pepper. These transform basic ingredients into a slow-cooked, flavor-packed delight that tastes like it simmered all day—even though it didn’t.
💰 Budget-Friendly and Hearty
Why order takeout or buy canned chili when you can make your own for a fraction of the cost? With affordable pantry staples and ground beef, this recipe feeds a family and stretches into leftovers you’ll actually look forward to eating.
🧀 Delicious Toppings and Customization
Love sour cream? Add a dollop. Obsessed with shredded cheese? Go for it. Prefer it spicy? Toss on some jalapeños. Chili con carne is the ultimate customizable dish. Pair it with our Mexican Rice Pilaf (another reader favorite) for a full Tex-Mex feast.
Grab a spoon and try this homemade version—you’ll never go back to the canned stuff again.
How to Make Chili Con Carne
Quick Overview
This chili con carne recipe is simple, bold, and perfect for busy weeknights. All it takes is 15 minutes of prep and about 30–35 minutes of simmering. The result? A thick, rich chili that’s deeply satisfying and incredibly easy to make.
🛒 Key Ingredients for Chili Con Carne Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to create the perfect bowl of chili:
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium (150g) |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Ground beef (80/20) | 500g (1.1 lbs) |
| Red bell pepper (diced) | 1 large (150g) |
| Chopped tomatoes (canned) | 400g (14 oz) |
| Kidney beans (drained) | 400g (14 oz) |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Beef broth | 300ml (1 1/4 cups) |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground coriander | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 teaspoon (optional) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
(Add a high-quality photo here showing the ingredients arranged beautifully on a table.)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Spice it Up
Stir in the cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices.
Step 4: Add Veggies and Tomatoes
Add the diced red bell pepper, tomato paste, and chopped tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Pour in the Broth and Simmer
Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Step 6: Add Beans and Finish
Stir in the kidney beans and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and top with your favorites—sour cream, cheese, green onions, or tortilla chips.
What to Serve Chili Con Carne With
Need some pairing ideas? Here’s how to round out your meal:
- Cornbread – A sweet contrast to the spicy chili.
- Steamed White Rice – Makes the chili go even further.
- Tortilla Chips – For scooping or crunch on top.
- Avocado Slices – For a creamy, cooling bite.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Adds a vibrant side that complements the chili perfectly.
Wash it all down with a cold Mexican lager or a tangy limeade!
Top Tips for Perfecting Chili Con Carne
- Toast the Spices: Don’t skip the 1–2 minute toast after adding your spices. It unlocks deeper, richer flavor.
- Meat Alternatives: Swap beef for ground turkey or use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
- Let It Rest: If you have time, let the chili sit for 15–20 minutes before serving. The flavors get even better.
- Double Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so make extra for future meals.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator:
Store leftover chili con carne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Let the chili cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
To Reheat:
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat until warmed through.
- From Frozen: Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat as above.
Final Thoughts
This chili con carne recipe is everything you want in a meal: simple, bold, comforting, and endlessly customizable. It’s sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation