Classic Chili Con Carne
Love making a huge batch and freezing it for later? This classic Chili Con Carne recipe is the ultimate easy comfort food rich, hearty, and packed with bold Southwest flavor. Whether you’re planning weeknight dinners, game-day meals, or make-ahead freezer recipes, this traditional beef chili delivers every time.
Originating in Texas and the American Southwest, Chili Con Carne meaning “chili with meat” is a thick, savory stew made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and warming spices. It’s filling, budget-friendly, and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for batch cooking and freezer meals.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Con Carne:
Perfect for meal prep & freezing
Feeds a crowd (great for parties & family dinners)
High-protein, hearty, and satisfying
Customizable spice level
One-pot comfort food
Servings: 10–12:
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, diced
5 cloves garlic, minced
3 pounds ground beef (chuck recommended for best flavor)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 (12-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
3 cups beef broth
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro
Directions:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir to evenly coat the meat and sauce.
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if needed.
Stir in kidney beans and pinto beans. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes to let flavors fully develop.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with cornbread, steamed rice, or tortilla chips
Spoon over baked potatoes or hot dogs
Pair with a crisp green salad for balance
Variations & Pro Tips:
Spicy chili: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle chili powder
Chunky chili: Use cubed beef chuck instead of ground beef
Vegetarian option: Replace beef with extra beans or plant-based protein and use vegetable broth
Freezer-friendly: Cool completely, portion into containers, and freeze up to 3 months
Next-day magic: Chili tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen
