Chili Con Carne is a classic American comfort dish with roots in Tex-Mex cuisine. This hearty, beef-based stew is known for its rich chili flavor, meaty texture, and savory tomato base. Beloved for its simplicity and robust taste, it's often served during cool seasons or at gatherings. This recipe captures the traditional essence of chili with pantry staples, making it a go-to weeknight or game day meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion (large, diced)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 56 oz crushed tomatoes
- 32 oz kidney beans
- 15 oz tomato sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- In a 5-quart Dutch oven over high heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic, stirring often until the meat is well browned.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
- Stir in chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer
- Stir in crushed tomatoes with their liquid, kidney beans, and tomato sauce.
- Over high heat, bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Skim any excess fat from the top if needed.
- Serve hot.
Tips
- Add 1 to 2 chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
- Substitute half the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add 1 cup of beef broth if you prefer a looser, soupier chili.
- Stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of tomato paste for richer tomato flavor.
- Add cumin (1 to 2 tsp) for a more Tex-Mex profile.
- Replace kidney beans with pinto or black beans for variation.
- Add diced green bell pepper when sautéing the onions for extra vegetables.
- Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months—this chili reheats very well.
Nutrition
Calories: 260kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 22gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 720mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 650IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 3.5mg
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