When you think of comfort food with a kick, it’s hard to beat a bowl of Texas Chili. This iconic dish from the Lone Star State is packed with bold flavors, tender chunks of meat, and a satisfying heat that warms you from the inside out. In this blog post, we’re sharing a recipe for Easy Texas Chili that brings all the authentic taste of the Southwest right to your kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of hearty classics or exploring keto and low-carb options, this chili is a soul-warming experience that’s sure to please your palate.
Ingredients
To whip up a delightful batch of Easy Texas Chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef (or diced beef chuck)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, and sour cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, cook the ground beef or diced beef chuck over medium-high heat until it’s nicely browned. If using diced beef, make sure it’s browned on all sides. Remove any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onions to the pot and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Spice it Up: Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (to your desired level of heat) over the meat and onions. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
4. Add Tomatoes and Sauce: Pour in the cans of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer and Season: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Optional Beans: If you prefer beans in your chili, add the drained and rinsed kidney beans during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This is entirely optional, as traditional Texas chili does not include beans.
7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle your piping hot Texas Chili into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cooking Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, you can add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder to the chili.
- The longer you let the chili simmer, the better the flavors will meld together. Some chili enthusiasts let it simmer for hours or even use a slow cooker.
Variations
- Get creative by adding ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or jalapeños for a unique twist.
- For a meatier chili, try a combination of ground beef, diced beef, and even ground pork or sausage.
Keto Version To create a keto-friendly Texas Chili, omit the kidney beans as they are higher in carbs. Double-check the canned tomato products to ensure they have no added sugars. This version allows you to savor the rich and spicy flavors of Texas Chili while adhering to your keto dietary preferences.
Low-Carb Version For a low-carb adaptation, skip the kidney beans and select tomato products with no added sugars. By doing so, you can enjoy the savory goodness of Texas Chili with fewer carbs, making it suitable for a low-carb diet.
Easy Texas Chili is a hearty and robust dish that embodies the spirit of the Southwest with every fiery spoonful. Whether you opt for the classic recipe or explore keto and low-carb variations, this chili is a taste of tradition and warmth. Whip up a pot, gather your favorite toppings, and savor the satisfying heat of Texas in the comfort of your own home.
