Cowboy Chili is a hearty dish filled with bold flavors! It features ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices that make it warm and tasty. Perfect for a cozy night in!
This chili is great for sharing, especially on chilly days. I love to add some cornbread on the side; it makes every bite even better. You can’t go wrong with this satisfying meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the chili its heartiness. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives if you want a vegetarian version.
Kidney Beans: These add protein and texture. If you’re out of kidney beans, pinto or black beans work well too. Mixed beans can add a fun twist!
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are essential for depth of flavor. If you’re low on spices, use a pre-mixed chili seasoning packet, but adjust it as they often contain added salt.
Diced Tomatoes: Keep it classic with canned diced tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes work in a pinch, but you’ll need to chop them and simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.
How Do I Make My Chili Extra Flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your Cowboy Chili, focus on properly toasting the spices. When you add the spices to the meat, cook them for a minute. This releases their essential oils, boosting their flavor. Also, low, slow cooking helps meld all the flavors together.
- Don’t rush the simmering—aim for at least 30 minutes, but an hour is even better.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for an extra kick.
- Consider toppings like green onions or sour cream to add freshness and creaminess.
How to Make Cowboy Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 to 60 minutes to cook, depending on how long you let it simmer. Total time will be around 45 minutes to 1 hour—perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Cook it for about 5 minutes until it softens and then add the minced garlic. Give it a stir and let it cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a wonderful flavor for your chili!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Using a spoon, break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Make sure it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 7 to 8 minutes. If there’s too much fat, carefully drain it from the pot.
3. Toast the Spices:
Now, it’s time to bring in the flavor! Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you want to add some heat), salt, and black pepper over the beef. Stir everything together and let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes. This toasting of the spices really enhances their flavor.
4. Combine the Chili Ingredients:
Next, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, beef broth, and rinsed kidney beans into the pot. Stir everything well to combine all the delicious ingredients.
5. Let it Simmer:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you have more time, letting it simmer for up to an hour will make the flavors even better!
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste the chili. If you think it needs more flavor, feel free to add more salt, pepper, or chili powder according to your taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now for the best part! Serve your hot Cowboy Chili in bowls and top it with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro leaves. Enjoy your hearty meal! Ideal for sharing or enjoying all by yourself on a cold day!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works perfectly in this recipe. Just be mindful that it might not have the same richness as beef, so consider adding a bit more seasoning for flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Kidney Beans?
No problem! You can use other types of beans like pinto beans, black beans, or even a mixed bean blend. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the chili.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative like lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it up on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You can add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick!
