Description
Bold, smoky, and bean-free, this cowboy chili recipe is the ultimate comfort food for chili lovers who crave flavor without the fuss. Inspired by the American frontier, it’s perfect for cold nights, camping trips, or big family dinners.
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
1 cup beef broth
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Optional Add-Ins:
4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
½ cup dark beer or brewed coffee
1 small can green chiles
1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder or dark chocolate
2 tbsp masa harina or crushed tortilla chips (for thickening)
Instructions
Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches for a deep sear. Remove and set aside.Add Aromatics
In the same pot, sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and cook 2–3 minutes until darkened.Bloom the Spices
Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and chipotle peppers. Stir and toast the spices for 1 minute.Simmer the Chili
Return beef to the pot. Add crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Simmer uncovered over low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.Final Touches
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add lime juice or vinegar for brightness. Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
Notes
- To reduce spice, use only 1 chipotle pepper or omit entirely.
- For chunkier texture, substitute ground beef with cubed chuck roast and slow cook.
- For slow cooker: Brown beef and aromatics, then cook in a slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Cuisine: American, Western
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: ~420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g