Description
A hearty and flavorful homemade Chili Con Carne recipe, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean preferred)
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, corn chips.
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, draining any excess fat.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.
Notes
- For a thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of simmering.
- This chili freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and freezing for up to 3 months.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
- Using a quality beef broth will enhance the overall flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex