Easy Chili Con Carne Recipe (Hearty, Flavor-Packed Beef and Beans)

Looking for a comforting dinner that’s easy to prepare and full of rich, savory flavor? This homemade chili con carne recipe combines lean ground beef, red kidney beans, tomatoes, and smoky spices to create a satisfying meal the whole family can enjoy.

Made in one pot with simple pantry ingredients, this hearty beef chili is perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or meal prep. Serve it over fluffy rice, add your favorite toppings, or use it as a filling for tacos and burritos.

Whether you prefer a mild, family-friendly chili or a spicier version with extra heat, this easy chili con carne is simple to customize.

Why You'll Love This Chili Con Carne Recipe

• Rich and hearty: Ground beef, kidney beans, and tomatoes make a filling, satisfying meal.

• Full of flavor: Chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic, and marjoram create a deliciously seasoned sauce.

• Easy one-pot cooking: Everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup simple.

• Customizable spice level: Choose mild chili powder or a hotter blend to suit your taste.

• Perfect for leftovers: The flavors develop as the chili rests, making it a great make-ahead dinner.

• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it with rice, tortillas, nachos, or your favorite fresh sides.

Chili Con Carne Recipe

Guiseppe

Servings

4

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

60 minutes

Calories

430

Cuisine

Mexican-inspired

Category

Main Dish

Make the best homemade chilli con carne with beef, beans, and smoky spices! Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers—hearty, rich, and easy to cook. 

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 heaped tsp hot chilli powder (or 1 tbsp mild)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 500g lean minced beef
• 1 beef stock cube dissolved in 300ml hot water
• 400g can chopped tomatoes
• ½ tsp dried marjoram
• 1 tsp sugar (or a small piece of dark chocolate)
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 410g can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• To serve:
• Plain boiled long-grain rice
• Soured cream or guacamole

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and red pepper, cooking for another 2–3 minutes.
2. Mix in chilli powder, paprika, and cumin. Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Increase heat slightly. Add minced beef and cook, stirring, until browned all over with no pink remaining.
4. Pour in the beef stock, chopped tomatoes, marjoram, sugar (or chocolate), tomato purée, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and cover. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water.
6. Stir in kidney beans and cook uncovered for another 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Turn off the heat and let the chilli rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve hot with rice and a dollop of soured cream.