Texas Chili Con Carne

This Texas Chili Con Carne is a hearty, meaty dish that brings together tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, flavorful chile purée. It’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or just a cozy night in. The bold flavors and customizable toppings make it a standout choice for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For Chilies and Broth
• For Beef and Vegetables
• For Spices and Flavorings
• For Optional Toppings
• How to Make Texas Chili Con Carne
• Step 1: Toast and Blend Chilies
• Step 2: Sear the Beef
• Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Spices
• Step 4: Simmer the Chili
• Step 5: Finish and Serve
• How to Serve Texas Chili Con Carne
• Toppings
• Accompaniments
• How to Perfect Texas Chili Con Carne
• Best Side Dishes for Texas Chili Con Carne
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Texas Chili Con Carne
• Reheating Texas Chili Con Carne
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Texas Chili Con Carne different from other chili recipes?
• Can I use other meats for Texas Chili Con Carne?
• How do I adjust the heat level in my Texas Chili Con Carne?
• What toppings pair well with Texas Chili Con Carne?
• How can I customize my Texas Chili Con Carne recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of various chilies and spices creates a rich, savory taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Easy to Customize: You can adjust the heat level by choosing how many jalapeños or chipotle chilies to add.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: With about 11–12 cups, this recipe is great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with tortilla chips, cornbread, or your favorite toppings like cheese and sour cream.
• Comforting and Filling: This chili is a classic comfort food that warms you up from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To make Texas Chili Con Carne, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the chili evenly without overflow.
• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth chile purée that enhances the chili’s flavor profile.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and easy.

Ingredients

For Chilies and Broth

• 4 New Mexico chilies, stems and seeds removed (5–6 inches each)
• 3 Ancho chilies, stems and seeds removed (4 inches each)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth, plus more as needed

For Beef and Vegetables

• 4 lbs boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• 1 extra-large yellow onion, chopped (about 2.5 cups)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped (about 1.5 cups)
• 2–6 jalapeños, seeds and ribs removed for less heat if desired, diced (optional)*
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (about 1.5 tablespoons)

For Spices and Flavorings

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon allspice
• 2 teaspoons Mexican oregano
• 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups tomato purée, plus more as needed

For Optional Toppings

• Tortilla chips
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Sour cream
• Mexican hot sauce
• Diced onions (green, purple, or yellow)

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How to Make Texas Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Toast and Blend Chilies

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add chilies and toast for about 2 minutes per side until slightly darkened and aromatic.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 5–10 minutes until softened.
Transfer the mixture to a blender. Remove the center insert of the lid, cover with a kitchen towel, and blend on low speed until smooth.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in the pot over medium-high heat. Pat beef dry with paper towels; season generously with salt and pepper.
Working in batches, sear beef for about 3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer seared beef to a bowl; repeat with remaining beef.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Spices

Return the empty pot to medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeños (if using), sautéing for about 4 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and allspice; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Pour in tomato purée, blended chile mixture, Mexican oregano, and cocoa powder; stir well to combine.
Return seared beef along with any accumulated juices back into the pot. Bring to a simmer before reducing heat to low. Cook for 2–3 hours while stirring occasionally until beef is tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Season chili with salt and pepper near the end of cooking to taste. Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as tortilla chips or sour cream.

How to Serve Texas Chili Con Carne

Texas Chili Con Carne is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your chili experience.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese – A sprinkle of cheddar adds creaminess and flavor.
• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness and color.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and cuts through richness.
• Sour Cream – This cool, tangy addition balances the heat.
• Diced Onions – Use green, purple, or yellow onions for added crunch and flavor.

Accompaniments

• Tortilla Chips – Perfect for scooping up chili or enjoying on the side.
• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread complements the savory chili beautifully.
• Rice – Serve over rice for a hearty meal that soaks up the sauce.

How to Perfect Texas Chili Con Carne

Making Texas Chili Con Carne can be simple, but there are ways to elevate your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your chili is unforgettable.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh spices and herbs to enhance the taste. Don’t shy away from experimenting!
• Quality Meat: Choose well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness and flavor. Searing it properly adds depth.
• Simmer Long: Allowing the chili to simmer lets flavors meld together beautifully. Patience pays off!
• Adjust Consistency: If your chili is too thick, add more broth; if too thin, incorporate extra tomato purée for richness.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your chili while cooking to adjust seasonings as needed.

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Best Side Dishes for Texas Chili Con Carne

Complementing your Texas Chili Con Carne with the right sides can create a complete meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Cornbread – This sweet bread enhances the spicy flavors of the chili and is great for dipping.
2. Mexican Rice – Flavorful rice adds substance and balances the meal nicely.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies bring freshness and a smoky element to your plate.
4. Coleslaw – Crunchy slaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chili texture.
5. Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas make a fantastic finger food option alongside your chili.
6. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole provides a rich dip that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips.
7. Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains add an interesting twist that complements the spice of the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Texas Chili Con Carne is a rewarding experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Not toasting the chilies can result in a bland flavor. Always toast chilies until aromatic for depth.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Searing too much beef at once leads to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for that perfect sear.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding too much broth can dilute the flavors. Start with less and adjust as needed during cooking.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to an unbalanced dish. Season gradually throughout the cooking process.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: Not allowing enough time for simmering makes the beef tough. Patience is key—let it cook low and slow.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Texas Chili Con Carne

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in the container for expansion.

Reheating Texas Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 30-40 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Texas Chili Con Carne different from other chili recipes?

Texas Chili Con Carne typically uses meat without beans and focuses on rich, bold flavors from various chilies and spices.

Can I use other meats for Texas Chili Con Carne?

Yes, you can experiment with different cuts like brisket or pork, but traditional recipes often stick with beef chuck.

How do I adjust the heat level in my Texas Chili Con Carne?

To control spiciness, adjust the number of jalapeños or substitute them with milder peppers like bell peppers.

What toppings pair well with Texas Chili Con Carne?

Toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, and fresh cilantro enhance the flavor and texture of your chili.

How can I customize my Texas Chili Con Carne recipe?

Feel free to add beans or different vegetables if desired, but keep in mind that traditional Texas-style chili usually excludes beans.

Final Thoughts

Texas Chili Con Carne is a hearty dish full of rich flavors that can easily become a favorite at any gathering. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today!