Chilli Con Carne Recipe – 5 Irresistible Steps to a Delicious & Comforting Meal
The Chilli Con Carne recipe is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug. Originating from Tex-Mex cuisine, this hearty, protein-rich stew of minced meat, beans, tomatoes, and spices has won hearts all around the globe.
Whether you’re serving it over fluffy rice, stuffing it in tacos, or enjoying it with tortilla chips, this comforting one-pot meal is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Ready to discover how to make the most delicious Chilli Con Carne in just 5 easy steps? Let’s dig in!
Discover how to make the ultimate Chilli Con Carne recipe in 5 easy steps! A warm, hearty, and protein-packed classic that’s full of bold flavors.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 500 g ground beef (or plant-based mince for vegan version)
- 1½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (400g chopped tomatoes)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (400g kidney beans, drained)
- 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander or parsley (to garnish)
- Optional: A square of dark chocolate for a deep (rich flavor)
5 Irresistible Steps to Make Chilli Con Carne
Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add chopped onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and bell pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Brown the Meat
- Add ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Add the Flavor
- Sprinkle in cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Stir to coat the meat evenly. Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to intensify the flavors.
Simmer the Magic
- Pour in chopped tomatoes, drained beans, and a splash of water if needed. Add sugar, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Optional: Add dark chocolate at this stage for richness.
Serve and Savor
- Garnish with fresh herbs. Serve hot with rice, crusty bread, tortilla chips, or even over a baked potato!
Serving Suggestions
- Over steamed rice
- Inside tacos or burritos
- With nachos and guacamole
- Topped with sour cream and cheddar (or vegan alternatives)
Why You’ll Love This Chilli Con Carne Recipe
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High in protein and fiber
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One-pot meal – easy cleanup
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Customizable heat level
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Great for meal prep and freezing
Pro Tips
- Add a splash of lime juice for a fresh finish.
- Chill overnight – it tastes even better the next day!
- Replace beef with lentils or soy mince for a vegan version.
Final Thoughts
This Chilli Con Carne recipe hits the sweet spot of easy, satisfying, and bold-flavored cooking. It’s a guaranteed favorite whether you’re feeding a family, prepping lunches, or warming up on a cozy evening.
Ready to spice things up? Try this recipe today and taste why it’s earned its spot as a classic comfort food!
This classic chilli con carne recipe is not just easy to prepare, but also perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknights.