Chili Con Carne Recipe | How to Make Chili Con Carne

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is lower in fat, while ground pork is often less expensive.

kidney beans

🥗Healthier: black beans

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Black beans are more nutritious, while canned beans can be more budget-friendly.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil is healthier, while vegetable oil is often cheaper.

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Add ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Remove the meat from the pot and drain excess fat if needed. Set aside.

In the same pot, add onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add bell pepper and chili pepper and cook another 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Return beef to the pot. Add spices, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, allowing the tomato paste and spices to caramelize slightly.

Add crushed tomatoes, beef stock, beans, and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful. Add a splash of liquid if it becomes too thick.

Remove bay leaves. Stir in chopped parsley or cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary