The Best Homemade Texas Chili Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with this homemade Texas chili! It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for cozy evenings.
- Bold, rich flavor: A perfect blend of spices and tender meat creates a taste that keeps you coming back for more.
- Simple ingredients: Only a few basic items are needed, making it easy to whip up anytime.
- Endless customization: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the heat to make it your own.
Recipe
Texas chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe stays true to traditional Texas-style chili, featuring bold spices and a rich, meaty base without beans. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even better the next day.
Ingredients:
2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2-3 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes:
For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes. You can also add a splash of beer or coffee for extra depth of flavor.
Equipment:
Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Cuisine:
American, Tex-Mex
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
This homemade Texas chili is packed with protein and flavor. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 32g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sodium | 980mg |
What To Serve With It
I always love pairing my homemade Texas chili with warm cornbread—it’s the perfect combo for soaking up all that rich flavor. I also like to get creative with toppings, adding shredded cheese, diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra texture. Trust me, these little touches make a big difference in every bite!
Cornbread Pairings
When it comes to pairing cornbread with my homemade Texas chili, I always think about balance—soft, sweet cornbread alongside the bold, spicy flavors of chili is a match made in heaven. For cornbread sides, I love keeping it simple: a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey lets the flavors shine. Experimenting with cornbread flavors, like adding jalapeños or cheddar, can add fun twists. My grandma’s secret? A touch of buttermilk for extra tang. Whether you prefer it crumbly or moist, cornbread’s versatility makes it the perfect companion to chili, soaking up every last bite.
Topping Ideas
Though chili’s robust flavor can stand on its own, adding toppings takes it to the next level, letting you customize each bowl just the way you like it. I love using seasonal garnishes like fresh cilantro in the summer or roasted pumpkin seeds in the fall. For a fun twist, I’ll add festive sprinkles of colorful bell peppers or pickled jalapeños to brighten it up. Don’t forget the classics, though—sour cream, shredded cheese, and green onions are always winners. Sometimes, I’ll crumble tortilla chips on top for a satisfying crunch. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
