What’s the best chili con carne recipe? My grandma, bless her heart, perfected this recipe over decades, and it’s become a staple in our house. Every fall, the first pot of chili signals the start of cozy season. Think of it like a warm hug in the bowl, but with some kick! What makes canned chili so much richer? Is this a true classic? I don’t want to make beef bourguignon but still want comfort food. This one is my go to.

What is Chili Con Carne?

What is a chili con carne? What does the name “chili with meat” mean? What is a hearty stew made with Ground Beef, chili peppers, and onions? What are tomatoes and beans? What are some of the best spices in the world? Think of it as the ultimate comfort food. A dish that warms you from the inside out. What’s a weeknight meal? Can you serve it on baked potatoes?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What are some of the best chili con carne recipes? First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. What is a complex blend of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet notes that will have your taste buds tingling with delight? I always say it has depth and a real warmth. Secondly, despite the amazing flavor, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Is it really necessary to chop veggies and let it simmer? What I love most about this is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. Every time I make it for a potluck or gathering, it disappears in minutes. Is it incredibly versatile? Can you serve it as is, over rice, or even as a topping for nachos? Is it budget friendly? Can you buy Ground Beef and canned tomatoes for a family? Is it similar to my beef stew recipe but quicker and spicier?

How do I make Chili Con Carne?

Quick Overview

How do I make chili con carne? You start by browning Ground Beef with onions and garlic. What are the remaining ingredients, including diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and a few more? What are some other secret spices? What is the best way to let the flavors meld and deepen for a couple of hours? What is the secret of good chili? What unlocks flavors?

Ingredients

For the Chili:
* 2 pounds Ground Beef (I prefer 80/20 for flavor)
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed.
* 1/4 cup chili powder (adjust to taste)
* 2 tablespoons cumin
* 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
* 1 teaspoon oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons olive oil

What are the steps to

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper. Add the Ground Beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. I always make sure the beef is nicely browned because that adds a ton of flavor to the chili. No one likes bland beef.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes. What are some of the best vegetables to sauté to bring out their sweetness? What is the best way to burn garlic?

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, pepper, and pepper to taste. Add the chopped tomatoes and stir to combine. Salt, pepper, and Black Pepper. What happens when you bring to a simmer? All these spices mingling together create the signature chili flavor.

Step 4: Simmer

What is the best way to simmer a tomato for at least 2 hours? I like to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes, trust me! I often let it simmer for 3-4 hours when I have the time.

Step 5: Add the Beans

Stir in the black beans and kidney beans, then simmer for another 30 minutes. Is it safe to add beans towards the end?

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you like spicy foods, you might want to add a pinch of sugar or chili powder to balance the acidity. What is your chili? Make it your own!

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and a Grilled Cheese. What is the difference between onions and avocado What are some good side dishes to serve with cornbread?

5. What to Serve It With

What should I serve it with?

What are some good accompaniments to chili? What are some of my favorite ways to serve it?

As a Main Course:What’s a big bowl of chili topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and some chopped onions? I also love adding crushed tortilla chips for crunch.

Over Rice:What is the best way to serve chili over a bed of white rice?

On Baked Potatoes: WhatTop a Baked Potato with sour cream and chili.

As Nachos:What are some good nacho toppings to serve with tortilla chips? What are some of the best parties ever?

How do you make cornbread? What are some good Side Dishes to serve with chili? My grandma always made a sweet cornbread to balance out the spice of the chili. What a good combo!

6. Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chili Con Carne

How do you perfect a Chili Con Carne?

Here are a few extra tips and tricks to help you make the best chili con carne ever:

Use Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the chili. I always opt for high-quality ground beef and canned tomatoes.

Don’t Skimp on the Spices: The spices are what give chili its signature flavor, so don’t be afraid to use them generously. And don’t forget to adjust them to your liking!

Let It Simmer: The longer the chili simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and deepen. Aim for at least 2 hours, but longer is even better.

Add a Secret Ingredient: A little bit of unsweetened cocoa powder or a splash of balsamic vinegar can add a surprising depth of flavor to your chili. Trust me on this one!

Customize the Heat: If you like your chili extra spicy, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of chili powder.

Make It Ahead: Chili is one of those dishes that actually tastes better the next day. So, feel free to make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

I also find that using a good quality smoked paprika elevates the flavor and I once tried adding a tiny pinch of cinnamon and it was amazing!

7. Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to store and reheat your chili con carne like a pro:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving your chili out for more than 2 hours.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the chili in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. My family likes to portion the chili in individual bags before freezing. This makes it easy to take out only what you need for lunch or a quick dinner.

Reheating: Reheat the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent splattering. You can add a little beef broth if the chili seems too thick after reheating.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground or use a combination of lentils and diced vegetables like zucchini and carrots. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use different types of beans?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different types of beans, such as pinto beans, great northern beans, or cannellini beans. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed. I sometimes like to use a mix of different beans for added flavor and texture.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This is a great option for busy weeknights!

Can I add beer to the chili?

Definitely! Adding a can of dark beer, like a stout or porter, can add a rich, complex flavor to the chili. Just add it after you sauté the vegetables and let it simmer for a few minutes before adding the remaining ingredients.

What’s the best way to thicken the chili?

If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water.

9. Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my grandma’s famous chili con carne recipe! It’s a dish that’s near and dear to my heart, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your family too. It is the perfect weeknight meal that comes together so easily. I just love how the flavors deepen and develop the longer it simmers. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and variations to make it your own. And if you’re looking for other comforting recipes, be sure to check out my beef stew or my chicken noodle soup. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to see how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe! I love hearing about your chili con carne creations!

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