Chilli con carne is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s loved worldwide for its rich, spicy taste. Originating from Texas, this classic recipe combines ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a medley of spices to create a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this chilli con carne recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chilli con carne is:

Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or a topping for baked potatoes and nachos.
Comforting: A warm and hearty meal ideal for cooler days.
Simple to Make: Requires basic pantry ingredients and minimal prep time.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need For The Chilli Con Carne Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make chilli con carne:

For the Chilli:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
500g (1 lb) ground beef
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup (240ml) beef stock
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

Grated cheddar cheese
Sour cream or plain yogurt
Fresh cilantro or green onions
Sliced jalapeños

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.
Season with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), and oregano. Stir to coat the beef evenly with spices.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Liquid

Mix in the diced red bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, and beef stock. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Chilli

Reduce the heat to low and let the chilli simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste the chilli and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
If the chilli is too thick, add a splash of water or beef stock to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve the chilli hot with your choice of toppings. Pair it with rice, tortilla chips, or a side of cornbread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

Brown the beef well: This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Use quality spices: Fresh spices make a big difference in taste.
Make it ahead: Chilli con carne tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Customize the heat: Add more cayenne or fresh chili peppers if you like it spicier.

What to Serve with Chilli Con Carne

Chilli con carne is versatile and pairs well with:

Steamed rice or quinoa
Cornbread or crusty bread
Tortilla chips for scooping
A side salad for freshness

Ingredient Swaps

If you’re missing an ingredient, try these substitutions:

Ingredient	Substitute
Ground beef	Ground turkey or chicken
Kidney beans	Black beans or pinto beans
Beef stock	Chicken or vegetable stock
Red bell pepper	Green bell pepper or zucchini

Common Questions

Can I make chilli con carne vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based mince or additional beans and vegetables.

How do I store leftovers?
Store the chilli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.