If you’re craving a meal that’s bold, hearty, and packed with layers of rich flavors, this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe is absolutely the answer. Tender steak cubes slow-simmered in a robust tomato base with vibrant bell peppers, warming spices, and hearty beans make it a comforting classic that never disappoints. The combination of smoky, spicy, and savory notes creates a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day, yet is versatile enough to enjoy anytime you want that satisfying chili fix with a steak twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each component plays a star role, whether it’s the succulent steak for richness, the trio of tomatoes adding brightness and depth, or the carefully balanced spices that make every bite sing.
- 1 ½ lbs beef steak (sirloin or chuck): Choose tender cuts cut into bite-sized cubes for the perfect meatiness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For beautifully searing the steak and layering in flavor.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and aromatic base flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives that essential punch of savory depth.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Brings vibrant color and a slightly sweet crunch.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds fresh earthiness and balances the sweetness.
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional): For those who want a gentle kick of heat.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides chunks of juicy tomatoes to brighten the chili.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: Creates a rich, saucy base for the chili.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds hearty texture and protein.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Contributes earthiness and smooth texture.
- 2 cups beef broth: Enriches the flavors with savory, meaty depth.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Brings a warm, earthy spice profile.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky flavor without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: The essential chili spice that ties the dish together.
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano: Adds a herbaceous note to balance the bold spices.
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional): Secret ingredient for a deep, rich complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To perfectly season and bring out all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami richness and a touch of tang.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who want an extra touch of heat and excitement.
How to Make Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season your steak cubes generously with salt and pepper, then sear them until nicely browned on all sides. This caramelization locks in those mouthwatering flavors and forms the foundation of your chili. Once browned, remove the steak and let it rest while you move to the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them gently for about 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. This step softens the veggies and releases their natural sweetness that will blend beautifully with the meat and spices.
Step 3: Cook Vegetables
Next, toss in the red and green bell peppers along with the finely chopped jalapeño, if you want some heat. Let these cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften just right, lending both texture and fresh pops of color to the chili.
Step 4: Toast the Spices
Now it’s time to bring in the spice mix. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and the cocoa powder if you’re using it. Allow them to cook for about a minute to toast the spices and release their full aroma—this is a truly transformative step that deepens the character of your chili.
Step 5: Build the Base
Pour in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir everything together to create a rich and flavorful base. This tomato-beef broth blend simmers down to tenderize the steak even further and marry all those beautiful flavors.
Step 6: Simmer the Chili
Return the seared steak to the pot, then add Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper for a spicy kick if you like. Cover the pot and let your chili simmer gently on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking method is essential to tenderize the steak cubes and meld all the flavors into one harmonious dish.
Step 7: Add the Beans
In the final 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the kidney and black beans. Beans add heartiness and texture, making the chili feel substantial and satisfying. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your palate before removing from heat.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe piping hot, and consider topping it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or sprigs of fresh cilantro for a bright, fresh finish. This chili is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for cozy family dinners or lively gatherings.
How to Serve Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes elevate your chili experience and add extra layers of flavor and texture. Consider shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, cooling sour cream, chopped green onions, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro leaves. Each adds a burst of freshness, creaminess, or melt-in-your-mouth goodness that perfectly complements the robust chili.
Side Dishes
For sides, classic cornbread or warm tortilla chips work wonderfully to scoop up every last bite. A simple side salad or steamed rice can also balance the richness and provide a lighter counterpoint. Pick sides that suit the occasion and your mood, whether it’s indulgent or wholesome.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to get a little creative? Serve the chili in mini bread bowls for an impressive presentation or spoon it over baked potatoes for a deconstructed twist. You can also layer it in a casserole dish topped with cheese and bake it until bubbly—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The versatility in presentation makes this recipe perfect for casual nights or special gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This steak chili is even better the next day when the flavors have had extra time to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool the chili before sealing to keep it fresh and tasty.
Freezing
If you want to save a batch for later, this chili freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen chili will keep well for up to 3 months and can be a lifesaver for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the chili in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. You might need to add a splash of beef broth or water if it thickens too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe highlights tender steak cubes, ground beef can be substituted for a quicker and equally delicious chili experience.
How spicy is this chili, and can I adjust the heat?
The recipe includes jalapeño and optional cayenne pepper, but you can easily control the spice level by reducing or omitting these ingredients to suit your taste buds.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! After searing the steak and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the beans in the last hour.
Is the cocoa powder necessary?
While optional, cocoa powder adds a subtle depth and richness to the chili that balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. It’s worth trying at least once to experience the complexity it brings.
What can I serve with this chili for a complete meal?
In addition to cornbread and rice, this chili pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even crispy tortilla chips for extra crunch and variety.
Final Thoughts
This Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe is a spectacular way to enjoy a classic dish with a delicious steak upgrade. It’s warm, satisfying, and packed with flavor that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just a cozy night in, give this recipe a try and savor every hearty, comforting bite.
Print
Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 6.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Steak Chili Con Carne recipe features tender cubes of seared beef simmered slowly with tomatoes, beans, and a blend of aromatic spices, creating a rich and flavorful chili perfect for a cozy meal. Enhanced with optional spicy jalapeño and cocoa powder for depth, it’s a satisfying dish that yields six generous servings.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 ½ lbs beef steak (sirloin or chuck), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
Tomatoes and Beans
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the steak cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear the meat until it is nicely browned on all sides. Once browned, remove the steak cubes from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped red and green bell peppers along with the finely chopped jalapeño if using. Continue to cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and beginning to release their flavors.
- Toast Spices: Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground oregano, and cocoa powder if using. Cook the mixture for about 1 minute to allow the spices to toast and become aromatic, enhancing the chili’s overall flavor.
- Build the Base: Pour in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients into a flavorful base for the chili.
- Simmer: Return the seared steak cubes to the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper if desired for extra heat. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Beans: About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans. Continue to simmer until the beans are heated through and the chili thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve the chili hot, optionally topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture. This hearty dish is perfect for sharing and warming up on cooler days.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
- The cocoa powder adds a subtle depth to the chili but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Using sirloin will yield a leaner chili, whereas chuck will provide richer, more tender meat.
- Leftover chili stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
