Chunky Beef Chili

Nothing says comfort food like homemade chili! This is a twist on a classic recipe that your kids will love.

What will I need for this recipe?

Chuck Roast – This cut of beef is a popular option in chili because when slow-cooked it becomes tender, rich, and flavorful.

Ground Beef – Having both chuck roast and ground beef in your chili gives you a great mix. Not only is it a great mix of textures but also flavor.

Yellow Onion – Yellow onions are very versatile as they give a sweet but tangy flavor that plays well into this dish.

Red and Green Bell Peppers – Chili is not complete without the crunch of a bell pepper. The sweetness plays well into the chili, and gives it a pop of color.

Tomato Paste – Adding tomato paste thickens the chili and gives it a rich flavor.

Tomato Puree – The tomato puree provides the base for the chili that the spices all build upon.

Diced Tomatoes – Adding diced tomatoes gives a fresh flavor to the dish as well as good texture.

Draft Beer – Beer adds another level of flavor that pair well with the tomatoes in the chili. You can of course use water but beer adds another component to the dish entirely. If you choose a more hoppy-style beer it will give you a bitterness that can pair well with spicier chilis. A darker beer will add more body to the chili. I prefer to use a lager because this light beer pairs well with the spices in this recipe.

Beef Broth – The beef broth is a canvas that the dish is built on. Since the main ingredient is beef, the beef broth pairs well with the other components.

Beans – This dish calls for both black beans and dark red beans. It gives the dish different textures and flavor.

Spices – My recipe calls for smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, cumin, all-purpose seasoning, cajun seasoning, and salt and pepper (to taste). This blend gives the chili a bit of a kick without being overpowering.

Avocado Oil – Avocado oil is used to cook the chuck roast and ground beef. It has a higher smoke point and it will not compete with the flavors in the dish.

How to Make Chili

Prepare the chuck roast

Place your cubed chuck roast on a tray and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy bottom pot over medium-high heat. Add 2 teaspoons avocado oil and add your cubed chuck. Sear for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway. Once seared, remove and set aside.

Next, add in your ground beef and cook until fully brown and crumbled. Use a paper towel to remove excess grease. Reduce the heat to medium and add in your peppers and onion. Mix well to combine. Add back in your cubed meat. 

Build your chili

Add in your tomato paste and mix well. Cook for two to three minutes to cook out the bitterness of the paste. Add in your tomato purée and diced tomatoes. Mix well to combine. Next, stir in your beer and beef broth. Season well with smoked paprika, cayenne, chili powder, cumin, all-purpose, and Cajun. 

Build flavor

Cover with a lid and cook on medium heat for 1 hr to 1 1/2 hours. Remove the lid, add in your beans, and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 30-45 minutes. Your meat should be tender and your house should smell amazing. Taste and adjust any seasoning as necessary.

Place in your favorite soup bowl/cup and top with cheese, sour cream, jalapeño… whatever you like. Serve and enjoy!

FAQ

What can I serve with chili?

Chili is very versatile so there is no wrong or right way to serve it. It can be served as a main course or a starter. You can serve it with toppings like cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, or crackers to name a few. Cornbread is a great addition to serve alongside your chili!

Can I thicken it?

The dish has elements in it that will naturally thicken the chili as it cooks. For instance, the tomato paste works as a thickener in this recipe. However, if you want it thicker then you can mix 1 tablespoon flour and 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry to add into the chili. Before you do this be sure you have allowed it to cook long enough as the chili should naturally thicken over time.

How can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers are easy to store in the fridge for 3-5 days in an air-tight container. Or, you can freeze the chili in a gallon freezer bag for up to 3 months.

I Hope You Enjoy This Recipe!

If you try the recipe, don’t forget to rate the recipe, and let me know what you think in the comments. Leave a quick review & star rating ★ below! Take pictures, tag #onestopchop, and share them with me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest! I love seeing my recipes come to life in your kitchen!