Are you looking for a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than chili con carne, the classic Tex-Mex dish that warms hearts and bellies alike. When done right, a good chili can be a game-changer – rich, savory, and just spicy enough to leave you reaching for more. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different takes on the traditional recipe, each one bursting with flavor and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
From classic Texas-style chili to slow cooker recipes, vegetarian options, and even sweet and spicy twists, there’s something for everyone in our collection of spicy chili con carne recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try something new, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Classic Texas-Style Chili Con Carne
Classic Texas-Style Chili Con Carne: A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a staple of Texan cuisine, with a rich history dating back to the 1850s.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne with Beans
This classic recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, beans, and spices to create a comforting and filling meal perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious chili ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add all remaining ingredients except salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Smoky Chipotle Chili Con Carne
This smoky chili recipe is a twist on the classic Tex-Mex dish, featuring chipotle peppers for an added depth of flavor. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, cumin, and chili powder to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beans, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Three-Bean Chili Con Carne
Spicy Three-Bean Chili Con Carne Recipe
This hearty and flavorful chili con carne recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the sweetness of canned beans, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans; stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Beef and Chorizo Chili Con Carne
A hearty, flavorful chili that combines the richness of beef with the spicy kick of chorizo. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef mince
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
– 1 can (150ml) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 100g chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 tsp chilli powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened (5 minutes).
3. Add the beef mince; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned (5-7 minutes).
4. Add the chorizo, chilli powder, tomatoes, and kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Chili Con Carne
A flavorful and nutritious twist on a classic dish, this vegetarian lentil chili con carne is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing potluck. With a rich blend of spices and tender lentils, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
2. Add lentils, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Cook 1 minute.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chili Con Carne
This recipe takes the traditional chili con carne to new heights by adding sweet and spicy elements, perfect for those who like a little excitement in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
4. Add the pineapple, diced tomatoes, and red kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Dark Beer-Infused Chili Con Carne
Elevate your chili game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the depth of dark beer with the warmth of traditional chili con carne. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this hearty dish is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of dark beer (such as stout or porter)
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the dark beer, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cocoa and Coffee Chili Con Carne
This unique chili recipe combines the deep flavors of cocoa and coffee with tender beef, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the beef broth, coffee, and cocoa powder. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
White Chicken Chili Con Carne
This hearty and flavorful chili con carne recipe combines tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a hint of spice for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, breaking into bite-sized pieces as needed.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, white beans, and half-and-half or heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let chili con carne simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot with optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Chili Con Carne
This hearty, flavorful chili con carne combines tender turkey with nutritious quinoa and a blend of aromatic spices, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or chicken broth.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and cooked quinoa. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bacon and Bourbon Chili Con Carne
This hearty chili con carne recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the rich notes of bourbon, creating a unique and satisfying dish perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, then remove from pot.
2. Add the ground beef to the same pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the pot, cooking until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in the cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and bourbon whiskey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the chili for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Chili Con Carne with Tomatillos
This recipe combines the rich flavors of New Mexico’s famous green chile with the tanginess of tomatillos, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional chili con carne. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a spicy kick any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium-sized tomatillos, husked and chopped
– 4-6 green chile peppers, roasted and chopped
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chopped tomatillos, and green chile peppers. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot over rice, with tortillas, or as a filling for tacos.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili Con Carne
This recipe combines the warmth of pumpkin with the bold flavors of black beans, creating a unique twist on traditional chili con carne. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, pumpkin puree, chili powder, and cumin.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Chili Con Carne
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chili con carne with the creamy, spicy kick of jalapeño poppers. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a party with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 8-10 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes.
4. Stir in sliced jalapeños and shredded cheese. Cook an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Loaded Nacho Chili Con Carne
Get ready to warm up with a hearty and flavorful chili that’s perfect for any occasion! This loaded nacho chili con carne recipe combines the richness of ground beef, beans, and spices with the creaminess of cheese and the crunch of tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, and tortilla chips for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, topped with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Corn Chili Con Carne
This hearty chili recipe adds natural sweetness from roasted sweet potatoes and a pop of flavor from fresh corn, making it perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/bacon for a variation)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in roasted sweet potatoes, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Korean Gochujang Chili Con Carne
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean gochujang with the comforting warmth of chili con carne. The result is a spicy, savory dish that’s perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, gochujang, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-30 minutes or until thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Serve: Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired. Enjoy!
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 bold and flavorful chili con carne recipes! From classic Texas-style to vegetarian lentil, beef and chorizo to sweet potato and corn, there’s something for everyone. Whether you like it smoky and chipotle-spicy or sweet and pineapple-infused, we’ve got you covered. With a variety of protein options from beef to turkey to chicken, and beans galore, these recipes are sure to satisfy your hunger. So grab your chili fixings and get cooking with these mouth-watering concoctions!
Leave a Reply