There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling pot of Steak Chili Con Carne, filling the kitchen with savory spice and hearty aromas. This robust stew is all about tender chunks of seared beef, colorful bell peppers, a tumble of beans, and smoky spices mingling together for a bowl that delivers serious flavor, bite after bite. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a casual gathering or treat yourself on a cozy evening in, Steak Chili Con Carne is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that only gets better with time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Steak Chili Con Carne lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each element not only adds depth of flavor and vibrant color but also creates that satisfying texture which sets this dish apart from your classic chili.
- Olive Oil: Helps sear the beef and develop those rich, caramelized flavors as a base.
- Beef Chuck or Sirloin (cut into 1/2-inch cubes): The heart of your chili, providing juicy, melt-in-your-mouth bites.
- Yellow Onion (diced): Sweetens and mellows the dish as it cooks down.
- Garlic (minced): Boosts flavor with its signature aromatic punch.
- Red Bell Pepper (chopped): Adds pops of sweetness and color throughout the chili.
- Green Bell Pepper (chopped): Offers gentle bitterness to balance the flavors.
- Chili Powder: Brings warmth and classic chili flavor to the forefront.
- Ground Cumin: Adds complexity and that slightly earthy, smoky undertone.
- Smoked Paprika: Enhances the smokiness and deepens color.
- Dried Oregano: Infuses the chili with herby brightness.
- Salt: Essential for making all the flavors pop.
- Black Pepper: Provides subtle heat and sharpness.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional): If you want a little extra kick, don’t hesitate to toss some in.
- Tomato Paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for that signature chili body.
- Diced Tomatoes: Give the chili acidity and more juicy texture.
- Kidney Beans (drained and rinsed): Classic chili beans that soak up all that flavorful sauce.
- Black Beans (drained and rinsed): Add extra creaminess and depth.
- Beef Broth: Brings everything together and keeps the chili luscious and saucy.
How to Make Steak Chili Con Carne
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the steak cubes and let them sizzle, turning to brown all sides. This step is crucial for building that meaty flavor base, so don’t rush—let each piece get a good golden crust before setting it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot (don’t clean it—you want those tasty browned bits!), add the diced onion. Cook, stirring, until it softens and becomes translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper, sautéing for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant and just beginning to soften.
Step 3: Build Your Flavor Base
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you like it spicy. Stir to coat the veggies in all those fragrant spices, letting them bloom in the heat for big, bold flavor. Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring well to caramelize it slightly and unlock its sweetness.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the seared steak (plus any juices) to the pot. Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the pot to release the flavorful fond. Bring to a lively simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook gently for 1 to 1.5 hours. You’re aiming for ultra-tender beef and a sauce that’s thick and rich—taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Final Touches
Right before serving, give your Steak Chili Con Carne one last stir and taste. If you like it even heartier or spicier, now’s the time to add a little splash of hot sauce or extra seasoning. Let it rest for about 10 minutes off the heat so the flavors meld beautifully. Serve piping hot and get ready for happy faces around the table!
How to Serve Steak Chili Con Carne
Garnishes
The right garnishes can take Steak Chili Con Carne from tasty to truly unforgettable. I love scattering chopped cilantro, a dollop of tangy sour cream, and a handful of sharp shredded cheddar cheese over each steaming bowl. Freshly sliced jalapeños or green onions add brightness and crunch, while a squeeze of lime really makes all the flavors shine.
Side Dishes
Pairing your hearty chili with a side dish is a sure way to turn dinner into an event. Warm, buttery cornbread is always a classic, but fluffy rice or even crispy tortilla chips are fantastic for scooping up every last bite. A simple green salad tossed with a citrus vinaigrette adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to all the deep, savory goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get playful with your Steak Chili Con Carne presentation! Serve in individual bread bowls for an impressive touch, or load up baked potatoes with chili, cheese, and your favorite toppings. For a game-day vibe, offer a chili bar with bowls of different toppings and let everyone customize their own. Leftovers make an amazing filling for chili-stuffed tacos or nachos, too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Steak Chili Con Carne just might be even better the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll happily keep for up to 4 days. The flavors only deepen and meld, making for fantastic next-day lunches or midnight snacks.
Freezing
This chili is an absolute superstar when it comes to make-ahead meals. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. It’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months, perfect for those nights when you need a little comfort and don’t want to cook from scratch.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the chili gently in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it’s a bit thick from the fridge or freezer, loosen it up with an extra splash of beef broth or water. Microwave reheating also works well, just use a microwave-safe bowl and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for Steak Chili Con Carne?
Absolutely! While beef chuck or sirloin work beautifully for their marbling and tenderness after simmering, you can also try brisket or even stew meat. Just remember that the key is to cut it into small, uniform cubes for even cooking and the best texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe offers mild heat thanks to the chili powder and black pepper, but it’s easy to adjust. If you love extra heat, toss in the optional cayenne or some chopped chipotle peppers in adobo. Or keep it mild and let your guests spice up their own bowls at the table.
Can I make Steak Chili Con Carne in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Sear the steak and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the beef is perfectly tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Are there vegetarian swaps that work for this recipe?
If you’re looking for a meatless twist, try swapping out the steak for extra beans, lentils, or even hearty vegetables like mushrooms and sweet potatoes. You’ll still get that rich, satisfying texture and can keep all those smoky spices and toppings you love.
What’s the secret to maximum flavor in Steak Chili Con Carne?
It all comes down to searing the beef in batches and letting each layer build before moving to the next. Bloom your spices in oil, caramelize the tomato paste, and don’t skimp on the simmering time. A splash of hot sauce or a touch of chipotle can also heighten both the flavor and aroma!
Final Thoughts
There’s no meal more inviting than a big pot of Steak Chili Con Carne shared with people you love. Whether you stick with the classic toppings or put your own creative spin on it, this recipe guarantees warmth, rich flavor, and plenty of happy “seconds, please!” moments. Give it a try soon—you’ll be hooked after the very first bite.
PrintSteak Chili Con Carne Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Steak Chili Con Carne recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for chilly nights. Tender beef cubes simmered in a rich tomato and bean sauce with a blend of aromatic spices, this chili is a comforting meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Steak Chili Con Carne:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds beef chuck or sirloin (cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add steak cubes in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic, bell peppers, and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Return the steak to the pot, then add diced tomatoes, beans, and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the chili thickens. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Notes
- For extra heat, add chipotle peppers in adobo or a splash of hot sauce.
- This chili is even better the next day and freezes well for make-ahead meals.
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