Chili Con Carne Recipe With Ground Beef Or Turkey
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Chili con carne is the perfect blend of simplicity and bold flavors, making it an ideal choice for a comforting meal. This easy recipe combines ground meat, hearty beans, and a rich tomato base, all seasoned with a mix of aromatic spices. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing meals for the week, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Chili con carne is a very easy chili recipe that consists of ground meat, beans, onions, tomatoes, garlic and spices. Since we are using canned tomatoes and canned beans, all the ingredients in this easy chili con carne recipe can be found in freezer or pantry!
Wonderful! Let’s move on to the next step.
Why You’ll Love Chili Con Carne
- Hearty and Satisfying: This chili con carne is a complete meal packed with protein and fiber, keeping you full and satisfied for hours. Perfect for cold nights when you need something cozy and filling.
- Quick and Easy to Make: With only a few simple steps, you can have this delicious dish ready in just 35 minutes. Minimal prep work and pantry-staple ingredients make it a breeze to whip up.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer ground beef or turkey, this recipe adapts effortlessly to your taste and dietary needs. You can even spice it up or tone it down to suit everyone at the table.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili stores and reheats wonderfully, making it a fantastic option for leftovers or weekly meal prep. It’s just as delicious the next day, if not better!
- Budget-Friendly: Using inexpensive ingredients like beans, canned tomatoes, and ground meat, this recipe offers incredible flavor without breaking the bank.
Chili con carne is a very filling comfort meat dish, and it tastes so good served over rice or quinoa. To make chili con carne super healthy, use extra-lean ground beef or lean turkey – this chili recipe tastes great with any kind of ground meat. This chili con carne has such deep flavor from all the spices and garlic that you won’t miss the extra fat if you use lean ground meat!
Easy Chili Con Carne Recipe With Ground Beef Or Turkey
Chili Con Carne Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey – Provides a hearty base with plenty of protein; choose your favorite!
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed – Adds texture, fiber, and a satisfying bite.
- 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes – A rich and flavorful base for the chili sauce.
- 1 onion, chopped – Aromatic and sweet, it forms the foundation of the dish’s flavor.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – Boosts the flavor with a hint of savory pungency.
- 1 tbsp chili powder – Brings warmth and spice to the dish.
- 1 tsp cumin – Adds a smoky, earthy depth.
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano – Enhances the flavor with subtle herbal notes.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Balances and brings out the flavors.
- 1 tsp oil – For sautéing the onions and meat.
For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Chili Con Carne
- Non-stick frying pan – Ideal for cooking the meat and ensuring nothing sticks.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Perfect for stirring and breaking up the ground meat.
- Cutting board – A sturdy surface for chopping the onion and garlic.
- Sharp knife – Ensures precise and effortless chopping.
- Measuring spoons – Helps you get the right balance of spices.
- Can opener – Essential for opening the canned beans and tomatoes.
- Serving spoon – For dishing out your delicious chili.
Instructions How To Make Chili Con Carne
- Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 minutes.
- Add ground meat and mix. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano and salt and mix.
- Add beans and chopped tomatoes and mix.
- Reduce heat to simmer, cover and cook for 20 minutes.
- Add more salt and pepper to taste if needed.
- Remove chili con carne from heat and serve!
Chili con carne reheats very well, so you can make it in advance. This is such an easy and tasty recipe – perfect for busy nights!
Here are some more pictures of chili con carne recipe –
This picture is a closeup of chili con carne:
And this is a picture of chili con carne served over quinoa:
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or nutrient-packed quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
- Pair with a side of warm cornbread or tortilla chips to scoop up every delicious bite.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten up the flavors.
- Serve it in a bread bowl for a fun and cozy presentation.
Tips For Success
- Choose Quality Meat: Whether you use ground beef or turkey, opt for lean or extra-lean varieties for a healthier chili without compromising flavor.
- Drain and Rinse Beans: This helps reduce excess sodium and ensures the chili doesn’t get too salty. Always rinse canned beans thoroughly before adding them to the pan.
- Don’t Skip the Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and oregano are the heart of the flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allowing the chili to simmer for 20 minutes lets all the flavors meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Customize Garnishes: Add toppings like avocado slices, jalapeños, or even a handful of crushed tortilla chips for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep in Advance: This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Make it ahead of time for a quick and flavorful meal later.
- Reheat with Care: Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the chili thickens too much.
Variations And Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground meat for a plant-based alternative like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or lentils. You can also add extra beans or chopped vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for more texture and nutrients.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier chili, add a dash of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or fresh chopped jalapeños. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether.
- Different Beans: Kidney beans are classic, but black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas can add a unique twist to your chili. Mix and match for variety.
- Tomato Variations: If you don’t have chopped tomatoes, use crushed tomatoes or even tomato sauce for a smoother consistency. Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for extra richness.
- Herb and Spice Twists: Experiment with smoked paprika, coriander, or fresh thyme to create a unique flavor profile. You can also add a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Add-Ins: Consider adding corn kernels, diced sweet potatoes, or even small pasta shapes for a heartier chili.
- Serving Ideas: Turn your chili into a nacho topping, fill tacos, or use it as a filling for stuffed peppers.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chili in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label and date the containers for convenience. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat refrigerated chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much.
- Microwave Option: Place a portion of chili in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between each, until hot.
- Thawing Frozen Chili: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For a quicker option, defrost in the microwave using the defrost setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the ground meat and onions on the stovetop, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, stir, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I skip the beans?
Absolutely! If you prefer beanless chili, just omit the kidney beans. You can replace them with extra meat, vegetables, or even diced sweet potatoes for a hearty alternative.
What can I use instead of chili powder?
If you don’t have chili powder, a combination of smoked paprika, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper can mimic its flavor profile. Adjust to taste for the desired heat level.
How can I thicken my chili if it’s too thin?
If your chili turns out thinner than you’d like, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to evaporate excess liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the beans with a fork and stir them back into the pot for a thicker consistency.
What toppings go well with chili?
Popular options include shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips. A squeeze of lime juice also adds a zesty touch.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?
This chili is naturally gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, avoid cheese or sour cream as toppings, or use dairy-free alternatives. Always double-check specific ingredient labels to ensure compliance with your dietary needs.
Other Easy Mexican Recipes
Fresh Tomatillo Salsa Verde – Authentic No-Cook Mexican Dip: This zesty and vibrant salsa verde is made with fresh tomatillos, bursting with authentic Mexican flavor and ready in minutes.
Pressure Cooker Mexican Rice Recipe: Fluffy, flavorful Mexican rice comes together effortlessly in the pressure cooker, making it perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a side dish.
Quick and Easy Tortilla Pizza with Mexican Flavors: A crispy tortilla topped with bold Mexican-inspired toppings, this pizza is a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Classic Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer: This refreshing shrimp cocktail features plump shrimp in a tangy, spicy tomato sauce with fresh veggies and herbs.
Traditional Atole Recipe – Warm Mexican Beverage: A creamy and comforting Mexican hot drink made with masa harina, perfect for cozy mornings or festive celebrations.
Fluffy Mexican Scrambled Eggs with Vegetables: These scrambled eggs are infused with Mexican spices and loaded with fresh veggies for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
Street Corn Salad – Mexican-Inspired Side Dish Recipe: A tangy and creamy salad inspired by Mexican street corn, packed with bold flavors and the perfect complement to any meal.
Chili Con Carne Recipe With Ground Beef Or Turkey
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 15 oz kidney beans 1 can, drained and rinsed
- 14 oz tomatoes 1 can, chopped
- 1 onion chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- Non-stick Frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife
- Serving spoon
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 minutes.
- Add the ground meat to the pan and stir. Cook for 5 minutes, breaking the meat into small pieces as it browns.
- Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt until well combined.
- Add the kidney beans and chopped tomatoes. Mix everything together thoroughly.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and serve warm over rice, quinoa, or your favorite side.
Notes
- This chili reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
- For a leaner option, use extra-lean ground meat.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Nutrition
For more easy recipes with ground meat, check out easy ground beef casserole, dirty rice recipe with ground beef and sweet potato shepherd’s pie.
