Hearty Chili Con Carne For Fall Dinner Ideas

This hearty chili con carne is a robust and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, beans, and spices for a satisfying meal. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, it offers a delightful balance of heat and richness.

The recipe is simple to follow and can be customized with your choice of beans and toppings. It's a great option for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients That Make a Difference

The foundation of a great chili con carne lies in its ingredients. Ground beef serves as the primary protein, providing richness and heartiness. Kidney beans add texture and a boost of fiber, while diced tomatoes contribute a fresh, tangy element.

Spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika are essential for achieving that signature flavor profile. A sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the overall taste, ensuring that every component shines through.

The Cooking Process

Creating a delicious chili con carne is straightforward. Start by heating olive oil in a large pot, then brown the ground beef until it’s nicely cooked. This step is crucial for developing flavor.

Next, sauté onions and garlic until they become fragrant and translucent. This aromatic base sets the stage for the spices and other ingredients that follow. Once everything is combined, let the chili simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Chili con carne is versatile when it comes to serving. Ladle the steaming chili into rustic bowls, and don’t forget to garnish with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro for an added touch of freshness.

For those who enjoy a bit of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions can elevate the dish further. Pair it with crusty bread on the side, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that flavorful chili.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

Chili con carne is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying meal choice.

With approximately 350 calories per bowl, it offers a hearty option without excessive calories. The inclusion of beans adds fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health, while the spices may even provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

Classic Chili Con Carne Recipe

This chili con carne features tender ground beef simmered with kidney beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or cilantro

Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add Ingredients: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 6 bowls
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g