This Cowboy Chili is a hearty mix of beans, ground beef, and spices that warms you right up. It’s packed with flavor and easy to throw together on a chilly day!
Nothing says comfort like a big bowl of chili. I love to top mine with cheese and a dollop of sour cream. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a cozy night in with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the chili its meaty flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use ground turkey or even vegetarian substitutes like lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans are traditional for chili. If you’re short on one type, black beans or chickpeas can work as tasty alternatives. Just remember to rinse them to cut down on sodium!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are key for spice. If you don’t have chili powder, you could blend some paprika with a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Fresh herbs like cilantro can be used for extra flavor if desired.
Corn: Fresh or frozen corn adds sweetness. If corn isn’t available, you can skip it or swap in diced bell peppers for a different texture and flavor.
How Do I Get the Most Flavor Out of My Chili?
To really enhance the flavors in your chili, try these tips:
- Brown the Meat Well: Make sure to cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned. This caramelizes the meat and adds depth to the flavor.
- Season as You Go: Adding spices while cooking helps develop their flavors. Toast them for a minute to activate the spices before adding liquids.
- Let It Simmer: Give your chili plenty of time to simmer. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Taste Often: Near the end, taste your chili. You may want to adjust seasoning to suit your liking. A little extra salt or chili powder can make a big difference.
How to Make Cowboy Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 (14 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley or cilantro, sliced jalapeño (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cowboy Chili recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 45 minutes to 1 hour for cooking, totaling around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Perfect for a comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until it’s fragrant—this is where the delicious aroma starts!
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot, using a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink. This will give your chili a robust flavor base.
3. Add the Spices:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy). Let everything cook together for 1-2 minutes; this toasts the spices and enhances their flavors.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, pinto beans, and corn kernels. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients, making sure the spices mix in evenly.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. You want it to thicken and for all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Final Taste Check:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or chili powder to suit your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley or cilantro, and sliced jalapeños if desired. Enjoy your Cowboy Chili with sides like cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping!
This Cowboy Chili is perfect for those chilly nights and a surefire crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option. Just remember that it may cook a little quicker, so keep an eye on it to prevent drying out.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of mushrooms, lentils, or extra beans. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
What Type of Beans Are Best for Chili?
You can use various beans in chili depending on your taste preference. Kidney and pinto beans are classic, but black beans or chickpeas also make excellent additions. Just be sure to rinse them well before use!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chili?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until hot. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for later enjoyment!
