If you are craving a hearty, flavorful dish that warms you up from the inside out, this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Loaded with tender cubes of juicy steak, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich blend of spices, it’s a smoky, savory masterpiece that truly celebrates the spirit of comfort food. Whether you’re inviting friends over or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures that make each spoonful unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each contributing a unique punch of flavor, texture, or color to this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe. From the hearty steak to the aromatic spices and colorful vegetables, every component works together to create that perfect bowl of chili.
- 1 ½ lbs beef steak (sirloin or chuck): The star of the dish, providing rich, juicy meat chunks that soak up all the spices beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for a flavorful sear that locks in the steak’s juices.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation to the chili.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped: For a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds fresh crunch and balances the red pepper’s sweetness.
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional): Kicks up the heat with a lively spicy note.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides tangy, juicy bursts throughout the chili.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: Creates a rich, saucy base full of robust tomato flavor.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds body to the stew.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture and earthy flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Deepens the chili with tender, hearty beans.
- 2 cups beef broth: Builds a savory, flavorful cooking liquid that melds all ingredients together.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin: Brings earthy warmth and a classic chili kick.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth that complements the grilled steak.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: The essential flare-up of classic chili flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano: Offers herbal brightness that balances the rich stew.
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional): Adds unexpected depth and subtle complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring out all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami richness and a little tang.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): To dial up the heat for those who like it spicy.
How to Make Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season those steak cubes generously with salt and pepper, then sear them until they develop a beautiful brown crust. This browning locks in flavor and creates that mouthwatering caramelized exterior we all love. Once seared, remove the steak and set it aside—you’ll add it back later to soak in all the goodness.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them until they’re soft and fragrant, just about 2-3 minutes. This step is key to building the aromatic foundation of your chili, and the heat will coax out their natural sweetness and depth.
Step 3: Cook Vegetables
Next, add the chopped red and green bell peppers along with the jalapeño if you’re using it. Let them soften for 3 to 4 minutes. These veggies brighten the chili visually and texturally, while the jalapeño brings a nice, layered heat that wakes up your palate.
Step 4: Toast Spices
Now it’s time to stir in the tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and cocoa powder if you decided to include it. Let these spices cook with the veggies for about 1 minute. Toasting the spices like this unlocks their full flavor potential and deepens the overall chili essence beautifully.
Step 5: Build the Base
Pour in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth, stirring everything together. This creates the rich and luscious base that will slowly transform into the heart of your chili.
Step 6: Simmer
Return the seared steak to the pot, then add Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper for an optional fiery kick. Cover the pot and let everything simmer gently on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking tenderizes the steak and melds the complex flavors into an irresistible harmony.
Step 7: Add Beans
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the kidney and black beans. These provide creamy texture and hearty substance that make the chili truly filling. Taste and adjust your seasoning with salt, pepper, or maybe a bit more chili powder—you want every bite perfectly balanced.
Step 8: Serve & Enjoy
Serve your delicious Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe piping hot. Top with your favorites like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro for brightness. Grab your favorite bowl, dig in, and enjoy a truly comforting meal that’s sure to impress!
How to Serve Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes turn a good dish into a great one. For this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe, think shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melting over the top, a spoonful of cool sour cream to contrast the heat, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves for a hint of freshness and color. Don’t forget some chopped green onions for a subtle crunch and vibrant green pop!
Side Dishes
Pair your chili with simple but complementary sides like warm cornbread, fluffy white rice, or even crunchy tortilla chips. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also balances the richness of the chili beautifully, keeping your meal fresh and exciting from start to finish.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to elevate your presentation game, try serving the chili in mini bread loaves hollowed out to become edible bowls. Or spoon it over baked potatoes topped with all the fixings for a fun twist. Even layering it in a hearty chili mac or over nachos turns this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe into a show-stopping dish perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve those delicious flavors and tender textures. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld!
Freezing
If you want to save some for a later date, this recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months and makes for a quick, comforting meal on busy days.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, gently reheat the chili in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it seems thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual portions, just cover to prevent splatters and stir halfway through heating.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of steak in this chili?
Absolutely! While this Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe shines with steak cubes, ground beef is a fantastic and quicker option that still delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture.
Is this chili spicy?
The spice level is flexible. The recipe includes jalapeño and cayenne pepper as optional ingredients, so you can adjust or omit them for a milder version. Adding or reducing chili powder also helps tailor the heat to your taste.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! After searing the steak and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add beans during the last 30 minutes for best results.
What type of steak is best for this chili?
Chuck or sirloin steak works best because they become tender with slow cooking but still hold their shape nicely, giving you those perfect bite-sized meat chunks in your chili.
Can I make the chili ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! This stew actually tastes better after resting overnight as the flavors deepen. Make it a day ahead, refrigerate, and gently reheat before serving your guests.
Final Thoughts
This Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe is a celebration of bold flavors, tender steak, and soulful comfort—all simmered into one unforgettable dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a surefire way to bring warmth and joy to the table. Go ahead, dive in, and let this recipe become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Steak Chili Con Carne Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Steak Chili Con Carne is a rich and flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners. Made with tender beef steak cubes, a medley of bell peppers, aromatic spices, and beans, it simmers slowly to develop deep, satisfying flavors. Ideal for a comforting meal served with your favorite toppings like cheese or sour cream.
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 and Liquids
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Beans
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
Spices and Seasonings
- 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. Add steak cubes, season with salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the seared steak cubes from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.
- Cook Vegetables: Add chopped red and green bell peppers, along with finely chopped jalapeño if using. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Toast Spices: Stir in tomato paste, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground oregano, and cocoa powder if using. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to bring out the flavors of the spices.
- Build the Base: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a rich base.
- Simmer: Return the seared steak cubes to the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper if you want extra heat. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add Beans: About 30 minutes before the chili finishes cooking, stir in the drained kidney beans and black beans. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked and flavors melded, serve the chili hot. Garnish with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, cocoa powder is optional but recommended.
- Adjust heat by omitting or including jalapeño and cayenne pepper.
- Use sirloin for leaner steak or chuck for more marbled, tender meat.
- Simmering time can be slightly reduced if using a pressure cooker, but traditional stovetop simmering develops better flavor.
- This chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
