Best Texas Chili Recipe
Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a savory Texas-style chili recipe that skips the beans and keeps things authentic, Taste and See’s guide to crafting the perfect bowl just might become your new go-to. This hearty dish boasts rich, deep flavors, perfectly blending spices, tender meat, and a luscious, thick sauce. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, game day, or a simple cozy evening in, this chili recipe offers bold and satisfying flavors that scream comfort food.
Ingredients:
Ground beef
Yellow onion
Garlic
Tomato paste
Beef Stock
Canned Petite-Diced Tomatoes
Chili powder
Smoked paprika
Ground cumin
Ground ancho chili
Oregano
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
Kosher salt
Black pepper
White vinegar
Prep Time
Preparing this Texas-style chili is straightforward and requires a just-right balance of prepping ingredients and cooking techniques to let the bold flavors shine through. You’ll start with your fresh ingredients like onions and garlic, minced and ready to go. Next, gather your spices and pull out the beef stock and diced tomatoes. Having all the ingredients prepped ensures the cooking process moves smoothly.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Once you begin, you’ll notice the chili doesn’t take too long to come together. From browning ground beef to letting the spices develop their robust flavors, every step takes attention to detail, but the results are well worth the effort. The recipe also yields enough to feed a group or be stored away for future meals, making it great not just for special occasions but also for everyday convenience.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Peppers
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Lay poblano peppers and jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are spaced out for even roasting.
3. Roast the peppers in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through until the skin is charred and blistered.
4. Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to steam the peppers for about 15 minutes.
5. Once cooled, remove the charred skins by rubbing them gently with your hands or a paper towel. Dice the roasted peppers and set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mix
1. In a small bowl, combine paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne, and black pepper.
2. Stir the spices until well mixed and set aside for later use.
Step 3: Sear the Meat
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced chuck roast in batches. Sear the pieces for about 1-2 minutes on each side until browned. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pot.
3. Once browned, remove the meat and set it aside on a plate. Repeat the process with any remaining meat, adding more oil if needed.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
1. In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil (if needed).
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 5: Add the Tomato Ingredients
1. Stir in the tomato paste, mixing well to coat the onions and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes to develop the flavor.
2. Add in the crushed tomatoes and diced roasted peppers, stirring to combine.
Step 6: Assemble and Simmer
1. Pour in the beef stock and stir well. Add the prepared spice mix to the pot. Stir thoroughly to ensure an even mix.
2. Return the seared beef to the pot, along with any juices that accumulated on the plate.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the chili simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. After simmering, check the consistency. Adjust by adding more beef stock if the chili is too thick.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
1. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt, if necessary.
2. Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, green onion, or sour cream.
Notes
Tip for Handling the Peppers
After roasting the peppers, steaming them in a covered bowl helps loosen the skin, making them easier to peel.
Spice Level Adjustment
You can reduce or increase the amount of cayenne pepper and jalapeños to suit your spice preference.
Storage
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
This chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave.
Serving Ideas
Serve the chili with cornbread, over baked potatoes, or on top of rice for a hearty meal. Provide a variety of toppings such as chopped onions, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro for added texture and flavor.
Cook Techniques
Toast the Spices
To develop deeper flavors, toast the spices before adding them to the chili. This helps release their natural oils and enhances the overall taste.
Brown the Meat
Properly browning the meat ensures a rich and flavorful base for the chili. Take your time to sear the meat until it develops a nice crust.
Develop Layers of Flavor
Build flavor by cooking ingredients in stages. Sauté aromatics like onions and garlic first, then proceed with adding the stock, spices, and other components.
Simmer Low and Slow
Allow the chili to simmer at a low temperature for a prolonged period. This ensures the ingredients meld together and result in a rich, hearty dish.
Skim the Fat
To create a smooth, balanced chili, consider skimming excess fat that rises to the surface during cooking.
Season Gradually
Add salt and seasoning in stages to control the overall taste and ensure it’s perfectly balanced by the end of the cooking process.
Use Homemade Chili Paste
If time permits, prepare your chili paste fresh from dried chilies for a more authentic and complex flavor.
Let it Rest
Letting the chili rest after cooking allows the flavors to deepen and fully develop before serving.
FAQ
What makes Texas-style chili unique?
Texas-style chili typically excludes beans and focuses on meat and robust spices for a hearty, flavor-packed dish.
Can I use ground beef instead of cubed beef?
Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute, although cubed beef provides a more traditional texture and experience.
How long should I simmer the chili?
Simmering the chili for 2-3 hours is ideal to fully develop its flavor. The longer it cooks, the richer the taste.
What kind of meat is best for Texas-style chili?
Cubed beef chuck or brisket works best, as these cuts have great marbling and break down beautifully during slow cooking.
Can I add beans to this chili?
Traditional Texas-style chili does not include beans. However, you can add them if you prefer, though it will stray from the traditional recipe.
What can I use instead of beef stock?
If beef stock is unavailable, chicken stock or vegetable stock can be used as substitutes, though they may slightly alter the flavor.
How do I store leftover chili?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I make this chili spicier?
Absolutely! Adjust the heat level by adding more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh chilies.
Why does chili taste better the next day?
The flavors continue to meld and develop as the chili rests, making it taste even better the following day.
Conclusion
This Texas-Style Chili recipe is a flavorful, hearty dish that’s packed with spices and tender beef for a bold, satisfying meal. It’s perfect for those who love a no-beans, meat-forward chili that delivers on authentic Texas flavor. Whether served on its own, with a side of cornbread, or over baked potatoes, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that brings comfort and warmth to the table. Give this a try to enjoy a bowl of chili that’ll become a new favorite!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Smoked Brisket Chili
Try swapping the beef chuck with smoked brisket for an extra smoky depth and unique flavor in your chili.
Classic Cornbread
Pair this chili with a warm batch of homemade cornbread on the side for the perfect combination of hearty and sweet.
Chili Over Loaded Fries
Serve the chili over crispy loaded fries, topped with cheese, sour cream, and green onions for a fun game-day treat.
Chili-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use this chili as a stuffing for roasted bell peppers, topped with shredded cheese and baked to perfection.
Chili Mac and Cheese
Combine the chili with some creamy mac and cheese for a rich, indulgent twist that’s sure to satisfy.
Chili with Tortilla Chips
Serve this chili as a dip with tortilla chips, and garnish with shredded cheese, chopped onions, and a dollop of sour cream for a fantastic party appetizer.
Chili Baked Potatoes
Top baked potatoes with this Texas-style chili, sprinkle on some grated cheese, and add a drizzle of sour cream for a filling and comforting meal.
Chili Hot Dogs
Spoon this chili over hot dogs, top with shredded cheese and diced onions, and serve up a classic chili dog meal.
