If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, you’ve got to try this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that hugs you from the inside with tender, perfectly seared steak cubes swimming in a richly spiced tomato base, complemented by vibrant peppers and creamy beans. Every spoonful is a celebration of savory depth and warmth, making it an irresistible meal for chilly evenings or whenever you want a little extra comfort on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every item plays a crucial role in building those signature layers of flavor and adding texture and color to the pot. You’ll be surprised how these everyday staples come together to create something so extraordinary.
- 1 ½ lbs beef steak (sirloin or chuck): Choose well-marbled cuts for tenderness and rich flavor; cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for searing the steak and sautéing the aromatics, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when cooked down, forming the base of your chili.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers that unforgettable aromatic punch, lighting up the entire dish.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Brings a pop of color and a mild sweetness to balance the spices.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds crunch and an earthy contrast to the red pepper’s sweetness.
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for heat): A fantastic way to add a little kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Fresh-sounding acidity that brightens and lightens the base.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: Provides a thicker, saucier texture to the chili.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor with a rich umami boost.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Classic chili bean that adds creaminess and body.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Offers a slightly sweeter, earthier flavor and great texture contrast.
- 2 cups beef broth: Keeps everything succulent and infuses savory depth into the chili.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin: The warm, nutty backbone spice every great chili needs.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish to something truly special.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: The essential spice mix that brings classic chili flavor to life.
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano: Brings an herbal note that balances the spices perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional, for depth of flavor): A surprising secret ingredient that adds complex richness without sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste as you go to make sure the flavors shine.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and adds a tangy depth to the meat and broth.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat): For those who love their chili with a fiery kick.
How to Make Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add your steak cubes, seasoned generously with salt and pepper. It’s crucial to sear them well, letting each piece get that beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in the juices. Once seared, remove the steak and set it aside—this step really builds the deep beefy flavor that makes this chili unforgettable.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Without cleaning the pot, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for just a few minutes until fragrant and soft. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with a mouthwatering aroma that hints at what’s to come—this is where the flavor foundation is laid.
Step 3: Cook Vegetables
Next, add the red and green bell peppers along with the jalapeño if you’re using it. Cook these until they start softening, about 3 to 4 minutes. The peppers add freshness and color, brightening the dish up and balancing out the richness of the steak.
Step 4: Toast Spices
Now, sprinkle in your spices and tomato paste. The cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and optional cocoa powder all need a quick toast for about a minute to release their essential oils and deepen their flavors. Stir constantly to prevent burning—this quick step transforms your chili into a flavor powerhouse.
Step 5: Build the Base
Pour in all the tomatoes—both diced and crushed—and the beef broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This combination will become your chili’s rich sauce, packed with that perfect balance of acidity and savoriness.
Step 6: Simmer
Return the seared steak to the pot, then add Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, letting everything simmer gently for 1½ to 2 hours. This slow cooking tenderizes the steak and allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a truly hearty chili experience.
Step 7: Add Beans
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the drained and rinsed kidney and black beans. These add a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness, rounding out the dish perfectly. Taste and adjust your seasoning here to make sure every bite sings.
Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
Finally, ladle this delicious chili into bowls and get ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor. It’s wonderful on its own but truly shines when topped with your favorite garnishes.
How to Serve Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes takes your Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe to the next level. Think shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for creamy richness, a dollop of cool sour cream to mellow the heat, or freshly chopped cilantro for that bright herbal note. Even sliced green onions or diced avocado work beautifully for added texture and freshness.
Side Dishes
For a meal that feels complete, serve your chili with classic sides like warm cornbread or crusty bread to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds some crispness and contrast. If you want to go a little more indulgent, cheesy tortilla chips or rice also complement the dish wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz things up, try serving this chili over baked sweet potatoes for a fun twist or use it as a filling for chili dogs or loaded nachos. You could also spoon it into baked tortillas for hearty chili enchiladas. The possibilities are endless and every option guarantees a crowd-pleasing meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe tastes even better the next day, making leftovers a real treat. Store your chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
Planning ahead? This chili freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your chili again, reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between so it heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin or chuck are great for their balance of tenderness and flavor, you can use other beef cuts as long as they’re suitable for slow cooking and cutting into bite-sized pieces.
Is this chili very spicy?
The heat level is quite customizable. The jalapeño and cayenne pepper are optional and can be adjusted or omitted depending on your spice preference.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can adapt the recipe by substituting the steak with hearty vegetables, tofu, or plant-based meat substitutes, and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Why do you add cocoa powder to chili?
The cocoa powder adds a subtle, rich depth to the chili’s flavor profile without tasting chocolatey. It enhances the meaty, smoky elements and makes the dish more complex.
How thick should the chili be?
It should be thick and hearty but not dry. The broth and tomatoes create a saucy consistency that coats the steak and beans beautifully, perfect for spooning over sides or dipping with bread.
Final Thoughts
Making this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe is like inviting warmth and indulgence right into your kitchen. It’s trustworthy comfort food with exciting layers of flavor that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. I can’t wait for you to savor this rich, satisfying dish as much as I do—give it a try and watch it disappear fast!
Print
Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty Steak Chili Con Carne recipe featuring tender beef steak cubes simmered with a blend of aromatic vegetables, beans, and rich spices to create a warming and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 ½ lbs beef steak (sirloin or chuck), cut into bite-sized cubes
Vegetables & 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)
Tomato & 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 & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 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. Add the steak cubes, season them with salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the seared steak and set it aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped red and green bell peppers along with the finely chopped jalapeño if using. Cook the mixture for about 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften and release their flavors.
- Toast Spices: Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground oregano, and cocoa powder if using. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and deepen their aroma.
- Build the Base: Pour in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir everything together to combine all ingredients evenly in the pot.
- Simmer: Return the seared steak cubes to the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper if using for added heat. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to meld flavors.
- Add Beans: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans. Continue to cook and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve the chili hot with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro to enhance the flavors and add creaminess.
Notes
- For spicier chili, increase the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- This chili freezes well; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Serve with rice, cornbread, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
