Are you ready to whip up a comforting pot of chili that will warm your soul? The answer is this classic one-pot chili con carne recipe.
With a blend of ground beef, kidney beans, and tomatoes, it’s packed with flavor and heartiness. The best part? You can have it all simmering together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
Imagine the rich aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filling your kitchen as you prepare this satisfying dish. The combination of chili powder gives it that playful kick, while the kidney beans provide a delightful creaminess that complements the savory ground beef perfectly.
Heartwarming Ingredients
A steaming pot of chili con carne is a true comfort food that brings warmth to any meal. Central to this dish are the hearty ingredients that come together to create a flavorful experience. Ground beef provides a savory base, while kidney beans add a delightful creaminess that balances the dish.
Tomatoes contribute their juiciness, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile. This combination is further enriched with the aromatic presence of onions and garlic, which sauté beautifully to release their fragrant essence.
Together, these elements form the foundation of an inviting meal that is sure to please.
Spices that Elevate the Flavor
The magic of chili con carne lies in its spices, and chili powder is the star of the show. This vibrant spice brings a lively heat that complements the richness of the beef and beans. Alongside chili powder, cumin adds a warm, earthy note that rounds out the flavor.
When these spices are added during the cooking process, they bloom and infuse the entire pot with their robust character.
The result is a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also excites the palate with its complex flavors.
The Cooking Process
Creating a pot of chili con carne typically begins with sautéing onions and garlic until they are beautifully soft and fragrant.
This step sets the stage for the rest of the ingredients, allowing their flavors to meld harmoniously.
Once the ground beef is browned and crumbled, the spices can be introduced, creating a tantalizing aroma that fills the kitchen. Following this, kidney beans and diced tomatoes are added, resulting in a colorful mix that promises a delightful meal.
Simmering to Perfection
After combining all the ingredients, the next step is to let everything simmer. This gentle cooking method allows the flavors to deepen and develop, transforming a simple mixture into a rich, hearty chili.
As the pot bubbles away, stirring occasionally ensures nothing sticks to the bottom, maintaining a smooth consistency. The anticipation builds as the kitchen fills with enticing scents, inviting everyone to gather around for a meal.
Serving Suggestions
Once the chili is thickened to perfection, it’s time to serve! Ladling the warm mixture into bowls creates a comforting presentation that is hard to resist. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
This chili con carne is often accompanied by crusty bread, perfect for scooping up every last bite. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or at a casual gathering, this dish is sure to bring joy and satisfaction to the table.
Delicious One-Pot Chili Con Carne
This chili con carne is a robust, hearty dish that brings together tender ground beef, creamy kidney beans, and juicy tomatoes in a flavorful sauce. It’s a comforting blend that offers a balanced taste of spice and richness, perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute to let the spices bloom.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth. Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve: Once the chili has thickened, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
A Bowl of Comfort
A bowl of classic chili con carne is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. The combination of ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and spices creates a hearty experience that is both comforting and satisfying.
With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, this dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, making every occasion feel special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, chili con carne is always a delightful choice to warm the soul.
This recipe is part of my 21 Amazing One Pot Dinners for Busy Weeknights. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!
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