When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, few dishes can rival the classic flavors of Texas chili. With its rich history and cultural significance, this beloved dish has become an integral part of Lone Star State cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned Texan or just looking for a delicious meal to warm your belly, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of spicy Texas chili.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 authentic recipes that showcase the best of Texas chili-making. From classic beef and bean combinations to innovative twists featuring chorizo, venison, and even dark chocolate, these recipes will satisfy any appetite. So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to taste the flavors of Texas with our ultimate list of spicy Texas chili recipes.
Classic Texas Beef Chili
This hearty chili recipe is a staple of Texas cuisine, packed with tender beef, rich flavors, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Texas Chili
Get ready to experience a hearty and flavorful chili that’s perfect for any occasion. This slow cooker recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Texas-Style Venison Chili
This hearty, bold chili is a staple of Texas cuisine, and this recipe showcases the rich flavors of venison as the star of the show. With a blend of spices and a hint of smokiness, this dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a camping trip.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the venison in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Smoky Texas Chili with Chipotle
This hearty chili recipe combines the bold flavors of Texas beef with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, perfect for a cold winter’s day. With just the right amount of spice and rich flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, beans, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Texas Chili with Beans
Savor the rich flavors of Texas with this hearty chili recipe that combines tender beef, flavorful spices, and creamy beans.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Texas Chili Con Carne
This hearty dish is a staple of Texas cuisine, made with tender beef, rich flavors, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a chilly day or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Texas Chili with Coffee Infusion
Texas Chili with Coffee Infusion Recipe
This hearty Texas-style chili gets a boost from the rich flavors of coffee, adding depth and complexity to this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, beef broth, and coffee. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Texas Chili with Dark Chocolate
This bold and flavorful chili combines the classic beef and bean combination with a hint of dark chocolate, adding depth and complexity to the dish. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in dark chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Texas Chili with Cornbread Topping
This hearty chili recipe is a staple of Texas cuisine, featuring tender beef, rich tomatoes, and spices. The addition of a crumbly cornbread topping adds a satisfying crunch to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
For the Chili:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cornbread Topping:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add tomatoes, broth, chili powder, and cumin. Simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, mix cornbread ingredients in a bowl. Pour into a hot skillet or oven-safe dish.
5. Simmer chili for an additional 15 minutes. Top with cornbread crumbs and serve.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Texas Chili with Jalapeños
Experience the bold flavors of Texas-style chili infused with a spicy kick from jalapeños. This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting meal or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and jalapeños. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Texas Chili with Beer
A hearty, bold chili recipe that combines the richness of beef, the depth of beer, and the warmth of Texas spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz beer (dark or light, your choice)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beer. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Texas Chili with Bacon
Get ready to experience the real deal – a rich, flavorful Texas-style chili that’s packed with tender beef, smoky bacon, and a depth of flavor that’ll leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground beef, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, salt, and pepper.
5. Add enough water to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Texas Chili with Cumin and Coriander
Experience the bold flavors of Texas chili elevated by the warm, aromatic spices of cumin and coriander. This recipe combines tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and a hint of earthy spice for a hearty, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and coriander; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beans, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Texas Chili with Fire-Roasted Tomatoes
A classic Texas-style chili recipe gets a boost from the rich flavor of fire-roasted tomatoes. This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for a chilly night or a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fire-roasted tomatoes (see notes)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the meat is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Texas Chili with Ground Turkey
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a crowd. This Texas-style version uses ground turkey instead of beef, giving it a leaner twist without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Texas Chili with Chorizo
Texas Chili with Chorizo: A Spicy Twist on a Classic
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Texas-style chili with the spicy kick of chorizo sausage, resulting in a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
– 15 oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the sliced chorizo sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Serves: 6-8
Texas Chili with Ancho Chiles
Texas Chili with Ancho Chiles Recipe
Summary:
This Texas-style chili recipe gets a boost of depth and richness from the addition of ancho chilies, which add a subtle sweetness and mild heat to this hearty dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Add the tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
5. Add the ancho chilies and simmer for 30 minutes or longer, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
30-40 minutes
Texas Chili with Sweet Potatoes
Texas-Style Chili with Sweet Potatoes: A Hearty Twist on a Classic
This recipe combines the rich flavors of traditional Texas chili with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. The result is a comforting, one-pot meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2-3 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Optional: jalapeños or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add tomatoes, beef broth, and sweet potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 authentic Texas chili recipes! From classic beef chili to unique twists like chipotle-infused and coffee-infused versions, there’s something for every palate. These bold and flavorful recipes showcase the best of Texas cuisine, with ingredients like ground turkey, chorizo, and ancho chiles adding depth and complexity. Whether you’re a fan of spicy or mild flavors, these chili recipes are sure to become new favorites. So why not try one (or two, or three…)? Your taste buds will thank you!
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