Whether you call it Chili, Chilli or Chilli Con Carne, this version captures those rich and spicy flavours we all know and love & takes them to new heights! This truly is THE best Chilli Con Carne recipe.
As one of my most loved and most popular recipes, I had to include this in my Debut Cookbook ‘Comfy’!
The BEST Chilli Con Carne
First things first, whatever we call it, wherever we believe its origins lie, can we all just agree that this dish is the ultimate comfort food? Okay good. Its warm and spicy flavours just act as a soul-hugging bowl of goodness and quite frankly it never gets old.
Alright, I’m gonna have to do some explaining here before you think I’m blowing my own trumpet for no reason. Here’s why you’re gonna love this chilli:
- Game Changers – A couple of game changing ingredients really turn this chilli up a notch. A glass of red wine adds a gorgeous depth of flavour, whilst a few tbsp of Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy background flavour!
- Easy – It’s so EASY to make! A no fuss, no nonsense recipe even for even the most beginner of cook to master. All in one pot too!
- Rich and Flavoursome – The perfect combo of seasoning and spices give this chilli a real punch of flavour!
In terms of making a chilli con carne, I promise it couldn’t be easier.
Making Chilli Con Carne
Chilli Con Carne Consistency
Because you’re simmering for quite some time, it’s important to use a pot with a heavy lid. This will ensure all the steam doesn’t escape as it simmers. If you left the lid off, the chilli is going to reduce down way too quickly; you need the steam to keep the chilli saucy as it simmers. You can then remove the lid and reduce it down to preference. As written, this recipe will give you quite a thick chilli, which I think is much more classic/preferable than the watery, soupy kind.
Homemade Chilli Con Carne Spice Mix
When it comes to chilli con carne seasoning, I of course highly recommend ditching the pre-made stuff and making your own. You don’t need any special ingredients, and hopefully, these seasonings should be familiar in your cupboards. If not, they’re all easily accessed at pretty much all supermarkets! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Paprika
- Cumin
- Chilli Powder
- Oregano
- Ground Coriander
- Sugar
- Salt & Black Pepper
Process shots: brown onion, red pepper and garlic (photo 1), add ground beef (photo 2), break up with wooden spoon and brown (photo 3), stir in tomato puree, then pour in red wine and simmer, (photo 4), add chopped tomatoes, kidney beans and Worcestershire sauce (photo 5), add homemade spice mix and beef stock cubes (photo 6), give it a good stir (photo 7), pop lid on and simmer (photo 8).
Chilli Con Carne FAQ
How spicy is this recipe?
Chilli, as the name suggests, should be quite spicy. I’d say this recipe gives you a medium spice. There’s definitely a kick, but it’s certainly not overbearing. Having said that the spice level is completely in your control. If at all wary I recommend starting with a small amount of chilli powder and adjusting towards the end. Much easier to add more than take it out!
Do I have to add the red wine?
The wine adds a gorgeous depth of flavour and compliments the beef really nicely. Most, if not all of the alcohol will burn off, but if you don’t want to use it you can just sub the same quantity of beef stock.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can certainly make this ahead of time! In fact, I think it actually tastes better after some time relaxing. It gives the flavours a chance to snuggle with each other. Just cook as instructed, allow to cool then cover and pop in the fridge. Reheat on the hob (may need to add a dash of water to loosen up).
Can I freeze Chilli Con Carne?
Sure can! Just allow to cool, then store in an airtight container and pop in the freezer for up to 6months. To reheat just bring to room temp, then either microwave or heat on the hob. Just ensure it’s piping hot throughout.
Serving Chilli Con Carne
What can I serve with Chilli Con Carne?
- Rice or Cornbread
- Tortilla Chips
- Sour Cream
- Coriander/Cilantro
- Cheese
- Lime
What can I do with leftover Chilli?
Perfect plonked on a Baked Potato or you could whip up some Leftover Chilli Dough Balls!
After more chilli recipes? Check out my Vegetable Chilli, Chili Mac, Chilli Hotpot and Slow Cooker Turkey Chilli!
Alrighty, let’s tuck into the full recipe for this Chilli Con Carne recipe shall we?!
How to make the best Chilli Con Carne in the world (Full Recipe & Video)
The BEST Chilli Con Carne
Equipment:
- Large Pot with Lid & Wooden Spoon
- Chopping Board & Sharp Knife
- Sieve/Colander (to drain beans)
- Ladle (for serving)
Ingredients (check list):
Chilli Con Carne
- 2lbs / 1kg Ground/Minced Beef (see notes)
- 2x 14oz/400g cans Kidney Beans, drained
- 2x 14oz/400g cans Chopped Tomatoes
- 1 cup / 250ml Red Wine, or sub beef stock
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 3 large cloves of Garlic, finely diced
- 2 Beef Stock Cubes (Beef Bouillon)
- 2 heaped tbsp Tomato Puree (Tomato Paste in US)
- 1 large White Onion, finely diced
- 1 large Red Pepper (Capsicum/Bell Pepper) finely diced
- 2 tbsp EACH: Paprika, Cumin, Chilli Powder (see notes)
- 1 tsp EACH: Oregano, Ground Coriander, Sugar, Salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- Olive Oil, as needed
Extras 'n' Optionals to serve:
- Rice
- Grated Cheddar Cheese
- Lime Wedges
- Sour Cream
- Fresh Coriander (Cilantro)
Instructions:
- Add a splash of oil to a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, red pepper & garlic and fry until they begin to soften and take on a tinge of golden colour.
- Add in the beef, break it up with your wooden spoon and continue to fry over medium heat until there is no sign of pink in the meat. If you've got fatty mince, drain away some of the fat here as needed. Stir in 2 heaped tbsp tomato puree then deglaze with red wine. Allow to simmer for a few mins to allow the meat to soak in the wine.
- Add the canned chopped tomatoes. Fill each can half way up with water, swill, then add that in too. Add in the drained kidney beans, 2 beef stock cubes, 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 2 tbsp cumin, paprika, chilli powder, 1 tsp oregano, ground coriander, salt & sugar, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- Give it a good stir as you bring to a simmer, making sure everything is well blended. Once simmering pop on the lid, turn down the heat to low and allow it to bubble away for 1 hour 30mins, stirring occasionally. I know it seems a long time but it truly makes a difference.
- Take off lid and allow to simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency (5-10mins or so). Adjust seasoning/spice with chilli powder, salt, sugar and black pepper if needed.
- Serve over rice with cheese a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime juice!
Quick 1 min demo!
Notes:
Your Private Notes:
Nutrition:
Hey, whilst you’re here why not check out my other recipes?
Hearty Ground Beef Dinner Recipes
- Epic Lasagne
- Spaghetti Bolognese
- Traditional Cottage Pie
- Soft and Juicy Meatballs
- Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas
If you loved this Chilli Con Carne recipe be sure to pin it for later! Already made it or got a burning question? Give me a shout in the comments and pick up your free ecookbook along the way!
88 Comments
Judith
November 22, 2023 at 9:09 amI made a half portion of this recipe (there’s only 3 of us) and other than not using red wine, I followed everything to the letter.
The only change I would make next time is to not add the water from the tomatoes’ can as I had to reduce it a lot at the end, but that was no biggie. My pan lid must fit very well lol.
Our plans changed right after I made it and it ended up sitting in the fridge for a couple of days, but if that’s how it turns out, I’ll have to make it in advance every time! I added sour cream, grated Cheddar and jalapenos to mine and it was absolutely divine. This is now my go-to chilli recipe.
I managed to save a small portion to make a few ‘Left Over Chilli Dough Balls’ for my son as a snack and he was very impressed with those as well.
Chris Collins
November 22, 2023 at 2:27 pmHey Judith! Thank you so much for the lovely review. So pleased it went down well 🙂 C.
Bonnie Rose
November 6, 2023 at 12:22 pmThank you! For this very detailed and easy to follow recipe, to chilli heaven.
I have tried my hand at cooking chilli from scratch before, but it always seems to lack something in the flavour department.
I followed this recipe to the letter (almost) and can honestly say I’ll never cook it any other way again.
It’s absolutely delicous.
The only thing I changed was to use Mexican oregano instead of Italian. It gives a slightly more lemony undertone, which works super well with the lime.
We just hosted a bonfire night (UK) this weekend and I decided to be brave and cook a bumper size batch for the masses and there was not a scrap left by the end of the night.
Yum.
Chris Collins
November 6, 2023 at 2:59 pmSo pleased this went down well, Bonnie! Thanks so much for popping back for a review 🙂 C.
Fern
October 5, 2023 at 10:28 amReally exited to try this,
Do you think it would work in the slow cooker?
Any ideas of timings etc?
Thankyou 🙂 I willl updated when I have tried it reallt exited
Chris Collins
October 5, 2023 at 7:08 pmI imagine it would yes! I’d go for 6-8 hours on LOW. If it’s a little watery just keep the lid off at the end to allow steam to escape which will thicken it up 🙂 Do let me know how it goes! C.
Ratna
September 28, 2023 at 7:33 amWas delish! Added half a spoonful of cocoa to it….gives a kick to the taste without being obvious, and takes it to another level!
Chris Collins
September 28, 2023 at 10:24 amThanks so much for the review, Ratna! Love the idea of cocoa! C.
Scott Cameron
August 5, 2023 at 7:57 pmAwsome A++ Thank You!!!
Chris Collins
August 6, 2023 at 11:42 amThanks so much, Scott! 🙂 C.
Denise D'Agostino
July 15, 2023 at 6:55 pmFantastic recipe one of the best chilli’s I have ever cooked
Chris Collins
July 16, 2023 at 3:05 pmSo great to hear, Denise! 🙂 C.
Chris
April 22, 2023 at 6:50 pmThank you it was very tasty and good. I enjoyed the flavour. Will make again.
Chris Collins
April 23, 2023 at 10:24 amGreat to hear, Chris! Thanks so much for the review 🙂 C.
Olivia
March 26, 2023 at 5:44 pmHi Chris! Thank your for your reply. I tried it yesterday with soy sauce and it turned out great! I added more spices and sugar and a lot of soy sauce. It tastes even better then next day!
Chris Collins
March 27, 2023 at 7:32 pmAh that’s great to hear, Olivia! Thanks so much for popping back for a review 🙂 C.
Olivia
March 21, 2023 at 3:38 pmHello, I don’t have Worcestershire sauce. Is there something I can use to replace it?
Chris Collins
March 22, 2023 at 9:56 amHi Olivia. I’ve heard of people doing a straight 1:1 sub with soy sauce, or a combination of soy sauce + ketchup, but unfortunately I haven’t tried this myself. C.
Jane
February 2, 2023 at 8:08 pmVery enjoyable. Nice depth of flavour. I find sone chilli recipes too acidic or harsh, or else too mild. This seemed to work well :-). Clear instructions. Thank you!
Chris Collins
February 4, 2023 at 10:47 amSo great to hear, Jane! Thanks so much for the review 🙂 C.
Miska Knezevic
February 1, 2023 at 8:12 pmEXCELLENT!
Chris Collins
February 4, 2023 at 10:41 amThanks, Miska! 🙂
Helen
January 31, 2023 at 7:52 amI’ve always had a go to chilli recipe which was fine but I decided to try this one for a change. Well wow it’s the best chilli I’ve ever made!!!! It’s so tasty and so easy to make!!! Thank you for another fabulous recipe!!!!
Chris Collins
January 31, 2023 at 12:03 pmAh that’s so wonderful to hear! Thanks Helen 🙂 C.
jannie
November 24, 2022 at 1:27 pmI loved it, HOWEVER, the kids hated the beans – obviously, its a veg! Can you perhaps suggest a replacement for the Beans even if it means that it no longer is Con Carne?
Chris Collins
November 25, 2022 at 11:03 amHi Jannie, glad you loved it! it’s tricky because I’d probably just recommend trading the kidney beans for a different variety of bean, or trading the beans for different veg. Since the kids aren’t a fan of veg it limits the options for substitutions. C.
Joanne Greenaway
February 16, 2023 at 5:40 pmHi there,
I’m cooking this right now and have grated some carrot into it instead of beans for sneaky nutrition. I think it should turn out alright?
Chris Collins
February 17, 2023 at 11:18 amHi Joanne! I imagine it’ll be just fine 🙂 C.
Dave Thrussell
November 17, 2022 at 2:09 pmJust done your worlds best chilli and being a bit of a novice I really enjoyed cooking it, plus I got a 10 out of 10 from the wife. Cheers Chris.
Chris Collins
November 17, 2022 at 8:56 pmThat’s awesome to hear, Dave! Glad to hear it went down well 🙂 C.
Sharon Needham
July 28, 2022 at 8:43 amChris, this has been my go to Chill recipe for years. It’s delicious! I had the recipe as a screen shot and was gutted when it disappeared into the cloud during photo back up. Managed to find it again (yes) and made it at 7.30am for later. The aroma coming from the kitchen – just devine ♡ Going to look at some other recipes now. Well done!
Chris Collins
July 28, 2022 at 10:51 amAh so happy you found the recipe again, Sharon! Thanks so much for popping back for a review 🙂 C.
Tracey
June 20, 2022 at 5:38 amTried over the years so many times to get a chilli recipe that will do the whole families taste now finally I have found it took it to a couple barbecues and was a hit
Chris Collins
June 20, 2022 at 8:35 pmThat’s so awesome to hear, Tracey! Thanks so much for the review 🙂 C.
Debbie Foster
May 7, 2022 at 7:30 pmBest chilli ever! Husband couldn’t work out what I’d done! Not the normal one but definitely the norm now!
Chris Collins
May 7, 2022 at 8:22 pmSo great to hear, Debbie! Thanks so much for the review 🙂 C.
Liz M
April 10, 2022 at 10:06 amMost amazing chilli con carne I’ve ever made. Found this nearly 12 months ago and it’s my go to recipe. And, only because it’s my personal preference, I always double the tomato paste.
Just magic…thank you for the great recipe!!
Cheers from Australia
Chris Collins
April 10, 2022 at 1:49 pmThat’s so great to hear, Liz! Thanks for popping back for a review. Cheers from Edinburgh 🙂
Hayley Newton
March 3, 2022 at 5:06 pmBest chilli I’ve ever tasted. Will never cook any other way again!
Chris Collins
March 4, 2022 at 9:31 amAh that’s so great to hear! Thanks for the review, Hayley! 🙂
Connie
February 26, 2022 at 7:24 pmGreat tasting and nice texture. I will definitely make this again.
Chris Collins
February 26, 2022 at 7:32 pmGreat to hear! Thanks so much for the review, Connie 🙂
Peter Brooks
November 4, 2021 at 9:02 pmI’ve got to admit this is a great recipe, I made this as a family meal tonight and reduced the chilli by two thirds, but it still had enough spice for the adults and it’s the first ever chilli I’ve made that my kids have eaten without them pretending to be sick or outright refusing it.
Well done !
Chris Collins
November 5, 2021 at 10:47 amPeter, this is so great to hear! Thanks so much for popping back for a review 🙂
Tony Haskey
October 30, 2021 at 6:36 pmWow, made this recipe a couple of weeks ago, and it blew my mrs mind. This time I had a few extras in the fridge ( beef and chicken stock), so slung them in and reduced a touch more. Lovely, bloody lovely
Chris Collins
October 31, 2021 at 10:36 amThis is awesome to read, Tony! So happy it went down well 🙂
Della Young
August 20, 2021 at 6:24 pmIts definitely the best Chilli Con Carnie I’ve ever made. Thank You
Chris Collins
August 20, 2021 at 10:11 pmThanks so much for the review, Della! Glad it went down well 🙂
Dorota Butters
August 15, 2021 at 1:16 pmI made this yeserday for a party and I have to say I really do think it’s the best chilli recipe!! I made a big pot for the serious party-goers at the end of the evening, and have been receiving nothing but compliments all morning. It is delicious! I added 2/3 tsps more hot chilli powder, but I made the chilli the day before and by the time we got to eat it, it was perfect. Will be making this again and trying some of your other recipes now!
Chris Collins
August 16, 2021 at 6:43 pmSo great to hear, Dorota! Thanks so much for popping back and sharing your feedback 🙂 C.x
Jean
May 7, 2021 at 11:39 amI forgot to leave the rating!! So here it is.
Jean
May 7, 2021 at 11:38 amI tried this recipe with out the wine and it was still delicious, all my family says thank you!
Mick
November 17, 2020 at 4:08 pmLove the recipe I also added a finely diced carrot as well it adds a little bit more flavour not that it needs it but I just like to add my own touch, keep up the good work.
Chris Collins
November 17, 2020 at 5:15 pmThanks Mick! Glad it went down well. Bet the carrots worked really well – will have to give it a go myself next time I whip this up. Thanks for popping back for a review!
Rachael Tovey
March 29, 2021 at 3:18 pmIt cant be 2 tablespoons of cumin and chilli! It must mean teaspoons.
Chris Collins
March 31, 2021 at 1:36 pmHey Rachael! It’s definitely tbsp 🙂
Mike Basil
July 28, 2023 at 12:24 pmI reduced the chilli by a half and it was still plenty hot enough. I don’t mind it a bit hot but my wife couldn’t eat it if I used the suggested quantity. I also doubled the beans to bulk it out and to add a bit more fibre. Tasted great!
Chris Collins
July 28, 2023 at 7:50 pmGlad to hear it turned out well, Mike! 🙂
Sarah McLachlan
October 22, 2020 at 5:42 pmFabulous recipe. Thankyou so much for sharing!
Chris Collins
October 22, 2020 at 6:51 pmThat’s awesome to hear! Glad it went down well 🙂
Kushigalu
October 22, 2019 at 6:12 pmLove the flavors in the recipe. Spicy and delicious too. Thanks for sharing.
Chris Collins
October 23, 2019 at 10:12 amYou’re so welcome 🙂
Toni
October 22, 2019 at 5:18 pmIt was a huge hit for dinner at my house! So comforting!
Chris Collins
October 22, 2019 at 5:20 pmThat’s awesome to hear 🙂
AImee
October 22, 2019 at 5:00 pmI love that you put a chili con carne “spice mix” in this recipe! I’d love to always have some on hand and use it potentially for other recipes.
Chris Collins
October 22, 2019 at 5:20 pmIt’s so handy!
Suzy
October 22, 2019 at 4:52 pmWe loved the spicy flavor of this chilli con carne! It was so good and the perfect comfort food!
Chris Collins
October 22, 2019 at 5:20 pmSo glad it was enjoyed!
Beth
October 22, 2019 at 4:47 pmI adore chili and could literally eat it daily! Such a perfect comfort dish! I love that you leave the lid on! I always leave the lid off to reduce the moisture! I am trying your method next. It looks so thick and luscious!
Chris Collins
October 22, 2019 at 5:20 pmThanks so much, Beth 🙂
B
February 20, 2018 at 10:20 pmMade half a recipe and it was delicious. Hadn’t thought of serving with rice but was great.
Saving the rest of another meal. Thank your dad for a wonderful meal on this cold and snowy night.
Chris
February 20, 2018 at 10:30 pmAwesome, Thanks for sharing your experience! It definitely warms up the soul right!? Will pass on the kind words 🙂
Karly
February 18, 2018 at 4:24 pmLooks amazing like always!
Chris
February 18, 2018 at 4:27 pmYou’re too kind, Karly! Thank you!
Albert Bevia
February 18, 2018 at 3:59 pmThis chili con carne does look so hearty and tasty, nothing better than a bowl of this comfort food goodness! I love that touch of sour cream on top, insane good recipe
Chris
February 18, 2018 at 4:26 pmThank you for your kind words! LOVE Sour Cream on top!
Jenni LeBaron
February 17, 2018 at 10:32 pmYes, please! I’d love a bowl of this right now. Gorgeous photos also!
Chris
February 18, 2018 at 11:10 amThanks so much, Jenni! 🙂
Andrea @ Cooking with Mamma C
February 17, 2018 at 10:11 pmYour dad deserves his moment in the spotlight! This chili looks incredible.
Chris
February 17, 2018 at 10:11 pmHaha thanks so much, Andrea! I’ll forward on the kind words!!
Marisa Franca @ All Our Way
February 17, 2018 at 10:00 pmThat’s my Hubby’s meal– chili! Yes, indeed I think it takes time to draw out all the flavors. Your chili recipe sounds delicious. And adding rice to the chili is really unusual. A nice touch. We usually add pasta but I could eat it without any additional carb. I can see why this recipe is a favorite.
Chris
February 17, 2018 at 10:10 pmThanks, Marisa! I’m so glad you agree! You’re right, any additional carb will do the trick 🙂
Leslie
February 17, 2018 at 9:19 pmYour dad picked a great dish to be an expert at. I love chili!
Chris
February 17, 2018 at 9:33 pmHaha thanks, Leslie! Isn’t it just the best!?
Monica | Nourish & Fete
February 17, 2018 at 8:04 pmThis, to me, is the perfect classic chili – and I just love the way you’ve paired and styled this with a big bowl of rice. Seriously the perfect game-watching, stay-in-and-get-cozy meal!
Chris
February 17, 2018 at 8:15 pmLove that! Stay-in-and-get-cozy meals are my kinda meals!!
Pam Greer
February 17, 2018 at 7:18 pmMust give both parents equal rights! This is the only thing my husband can cook and he makes it every Superbowl Sunday! I love it!
Chris
February 17, 2018 at 8:16 pmYes! So perfect for Superbowl!!