Cowboy Chili is a hearty dish packed with beans, ground beef, and a mix of tasty spices. It’s perfect for warming you up on a chilly day!
This chili is like a hug in a bowl, and it’s great for sharing with friends. I love topping mine with cheese and some crispy tortilla chips. Yum! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work too. For a plant-based alternative, try lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans are traditional here, adding heartiness. If you’re short on time, canned beans are a great choice. You can also substitute black beans or cannellini beans based on your preference!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin provide the chili’s distinct flavor. If you run out of chili powder, a combination of paprika and cayenne can work. For a different kick, add a dash of chipotle powder or even taco seasoning.
Vegetables: Besides onions and garlic, consider adding bell peppers or corn for extra texture and sweetness. They can enhance both the flavor and nutrition of your chili!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Chili?
Achieving great flavor starts with the sautéing process. Always cook your onions and garlic until they are soft—the sweetness adds depth. After browning the beef, toasting the spices is crucial too! This extra step brings out their full flavor.
- Sauté onions in oil until softened, then add garlic.
- Don’t rush the beef browning; it develops a nice crust.
- After adding spices, let them cook briefly before adding liquids to bring out their oils and flavor.
- Let the chili simmer gently; this is where the magic happens as flavors meld together.
Remember to taste along the way and adjust seasonings to your liking! A little salt or extra spice can make your chili truly special.
Cowboy Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for heat preference)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1-2 fresh jalapeño peppers, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cowboy Chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30-45 minutes to simmer on the stove. You’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in about an hour or so, perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until they are soft and translucent. This step is important as it builds the base flavor of your chili!
2. Add Garlic and Beef:
Add the minced garlic to the pot, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. Then, raise the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it out to keep the chili from being too greasy.
3. Spice It Up:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix and let the spices toast for about 1-2 minutes—this step brings out their rich flavors!
4. Mix in the Tomatoes:
Add the tomato paste to the beef mixture and stir well, cooking for another minute. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes, including their juice, and the beef broth. Mix everything together until fully combined.
5. Add the Beans:
Now it’s time to add in both types of beans, which make the chili hearty and filling. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer. After it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot partially, allowing it to simmer for at least 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and let those flavors meld beautifully!
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder according to your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cowboy Chili hot in bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro leaves, and slices of jalapeño for that extra kick. Pair it with warm cornbread or tortilla chips—and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Chili?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian alternative, you can use lentils, black beans, or a plant-based meat substitute.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you enjoy a spicy kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers while cooking. You can also use spicy chili powder or hot sauce to crank up the heat to your preference!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes, Cowboy Chili is great for make-ahead meals! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat on the stove when you’re ready to serve. The flavors actually deepen and improve overnight!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
