If you’re craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that’s packed with robust flavors and tender chunks of perfectly cooked beef, let me introduce you to an absolute winner: the Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe. This dish blends succulent steak cubes with a vibrant mix of beans, spices, and tomatoes, creating a rich, comforting bowl that feels like a big, delicious hug. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply treating yourself to a satisfying dinner, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory depth, mild heat, and sticky texture that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient contributes something essential to the final bowl. From the juicy steak that adds hearty texture to the aromatic spices that build layers of flavor, these ingredients come together effortlessly to create pure magic.
- 1 ½ lbs beef steak (sirloin or chuck): Choose tender cuts that hold up well during slow cooking for juicy chunks in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sear the beef beautifully and sauté the aromatics without burning.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the base of the chili.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chili with a warm, fragrant kick that’s essential for balance.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Brings sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds a subtle crunch and fresh note against the richness.
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional): For those who love a bit of heat, it lifts the chili without overpowering.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings bright acidity and texture.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: Creates a thick, luscious chili sauce base.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds a slight sweetness.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Classic chili staple for heft and earthiness.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: A complementary bean with a slightly creamy texture.
- 2 cups beef broth: Builds a rich, savory liquid foundation.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds a smoky, warm earthiness essential to chili.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Infuses subtle smoky notes that deepen complexity.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: The star spice for a classic chili flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano: Adds a herby brightness that balances the warmth.
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional): Surprising depth and slight richness without sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami punch and richness.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Kick up the heat for those who like it fiery.
How to Make Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season your steak cubes generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear them until beautifully browned on all sides—this step locks in the juices and builds a deep flavor base. Once browned, remove the steak and set it aside because we’ll add it back later to simmer gently in all those spices and liquid.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in diced onions and minced garlic. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This quick step unlocks their sweet and savory essence, which serves as the chili’s aromatic backbone.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add chopped red and green bell peppers, along with the finely chopped jalapeño if you’re using it. Cook everything for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften just slightly but still hold some bite and vibrant color. This keeps the chili fresh and lively with every spoonful.
Step 4: Toast the Spices
Now stir in tomato paste, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and cocoa powder. Cooking them with the vegetables for about a minute helps release their oils and intensifies the flavors, giving your chili that unique, warm, layered taste you’d expect from a top-notch Chili Con Carne.
Step 5: Build the Base
Pour in your diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Give everything a thorough stir to combine all the ingredients into a rich, chunky sauce. This liquid base will bubble away into a luscious chili in the next steps.
Step 6: Simmer
Return the seared steak cubes to the pot, then add Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper if you want to boost the heat even more. Cover the pot and reduce your heat to low, letting it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking tenderizes the steak to fall-apart goodness while thickening the chili into a hearty meal.
Step 7: Add the Beans
About 30 minutes before you finish cooking, stir in the kidney and black beans. This timing lets the beans warm through without getting mushy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking, ensuring every element sings in harmony.
Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
Your Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe is now ready to delight. Ladle it into bowls and get ready for a comforting, flavorful experience that’s as pleasing on the eyes as it is to the palate.
How to Serve Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes really elevate this dish. Think shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack melting into the bowl’s warmth, dollops of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt to soothe the spice, chopped fresh cilantro for brightness, and sliced green onions for a mild crunch. You can also add avocado slices or a squeeze of fresh lime to brighten the flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Chili is wonderfully versatile with sides. Classic corn bread, either sweet or savory, is always a show-stopper. Tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas work beautifully for scooping. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider steamed rice or even crispy roasted potatoes alongside your chili bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, turn your Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe into a chili bar. Offer various toppings and sides so everyone can customize their bowls. You might also stuff the chili inside baked sweet potatoes for a fun, portable meal or layer it over nachos for a loaded snack perfect for game day. It’s also fantastic as a filling for stuffed peppers or chili-topped baked potatoes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili tastes even better the next day once all the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will keep well for 3 to 4 days. Let it come to room temperature before reheating to preserve the texture.
Freezing
Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion your chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave—just be sure to cover and stir halfway through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the chili seems too thick after refrigeration.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of steak for this chili?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a classic alternative, though using steak cubes creates a more luxurious texture and takes the dish to another level. The slow simmer helps tenderize the steak beautifully.
What cut of steak works best for the chili?
Sirloin or chuck steak are excellent choices because they are flavorful and stay tender when cooked low and slow. Avoid lean cuts like flank or tenderloin as they can dry out during simmering.
Is the cocoa powder really necessary?
While optional, cocoa powder adds a subtle richness and deepens the flavor profile without making the chili taste like chocolate. It enhances the complexity and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! After searing the steak and sautéing the aromatics on the stove, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Add beans in the last 30 minutes to prevent them from getting mushy.
How spicy is this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe?
The heat level is customizable. The recipe includes jalapeño and cayenne pepper as optional ingredients, so you can adjust these to your taste, from mild to fiery. The chili powder also adds warmth without overwhelming spice.
Final Thoughts
This Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like home in every spoonful. It’s full of warmth, flavor, and comforting textures that bring people together around the table. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser or just a reliable weeknight delight, give this recipe a try—you’ll love how it fills your kitchen and heart with goodness.
Print
Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Steak Chili Con Carne combines tender seared beef steak cubes with a rich medley of tomatoes, beans, and bold spices simmered to perfection. With layers of smoky, spicy flavors complemented by aromatic vegetables, this chili is a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 ½ lbs beef steak (sirloin or chuck), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables and 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 Base
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Beans
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Spices
- 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
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season steak cubes with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot oil until browned on all sides. Remove the steak cubes from the pot and set aside to retain their juices.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent, releasing their flavors into the oil.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped red and green bell peppers along with finely chopped jalapeño if using. Sauté the mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and begin to release their juices.
- Toast Spices: Stir in the tomato paste along with ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and cocoa powder if using. Cook this spice blend with the vegetables for about 1 minute to allow the flavors to bloom and deepen.
- Build the Base: Pour in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients into a flavorful chili base.
- Simmer: Return the seared steak cubes to the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper if desired for more heat. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir the chili occasionally to prevent sticking and help flavors meld.
- Add Beans: About 30 minutes before the chili is done, stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans. This ensures the beans heat through without becoming mushy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the hot chili into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added creaminess and freshness.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper.
- Cocoa powder is optional but adds a rich depth to the chili’s flavor.
- Use sirloin or chuck steak as they hold up well during long simmering without becoming tough.
- Be sure to rinse and drain the beans to reduce excess sodium.
- This chili can be made a day ahead; flavors will deepen when reheated.
- Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
