Texas Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty meal that warms the soul, this Texas chili recipe is just what you need. It’s packed with rich flavors and a delightful kick that will have your taste buds dancing. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or even when you’re entertaining friends on game day. The best part? You can make it ahead of time, letting those flavors deepen and develop while you relax!

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of simmering chili filling your home. This recipe is a family favorite for a reason—it’s rich, meaty, and bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s completely bean-free, staying true to the Texas tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this chili comes together without fuss.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of dried peppers and spices creates a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible.
• Family-friendly: It’s a meal everyone will love, making it perfect for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day! Simply store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the heat level or add your favorite toppings to personalize each bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Texas chili recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili Paste

• 3 ancho peppers
• 3 pasilla peppers
• 3 New Mexican dried peppers

For the Chili

• 2.5 pounds beef chuck (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium white onion (chopped)
• 3 jalapeno peppers (chopped)
• 2 serrano peppers (chopped; optional for extra heat)
• 4 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 2 cups beef stock (or dark beef broth)
• 2.5 cups water (+ more as needed)
• 2 tablespoons masa harina (corn flour, for thickening if desired)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Variations

One of the great things about this Texas chili recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this classic dish.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and sweetness.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for an extra smoky flavor.
• Top it off: Try garnishing with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or shredded cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness.

How to Make Texas Chili Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chili Paste

Start by lightly toasting the dried peppers in a dry pan for about 1-2 minutes per side. This step is essential because it helps release their oils and enhances their flavor. Once toasted, let them cool enough to handle before removing the stems and seeds.

Step 2: Soak the Peppers

Soak your toasted peppers in hot water for about 20 minutes until they soften up nicely. This soaking process not only makes them easier to blend but also intensifies their flavor.

Step 3: Blend the Peppers

In a food processor, combine your soaked peppers with half a cup of soaking water and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth; this paste will be the flavor backbone of your chili.

Step 4: Season the Beef

In a large bowl, toss your cubed beef with cumin along with salt and pepper until everything is well coated. This step ensures every bite of meat is flavorful.

Step 5: Sear the Beef

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear it on all sides for about 6-7 minutes. This browning adds depth and richness to your chili.

Step 6: Sauté Vegetables

Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil along with chopped jalapeños, serranos (if using), and onion. Cook down these veggies for about five minutes until they become tender and fragrant.

Step 7: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This brief sautéing releases garlic’s aromatic qualities that enhance your chili’s overall flavor profile.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Return the seared beef back into the pot and stir in your reserved chili paste. Allow it to cook together for another 2-3 minutes; this helps meld those flavors beautifully!

Step 9: Simmer Away

Now it’s time to add in your beef stock or broth, along with two cups of water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and masa harina if you’re thickening it up! Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low.

Step 10: Let It Simmer

Cover your pot and let this simmer gently for about two hours—or until that beef is fall-apart tender! Make sure to give it a stir every thirty minutes or so; if it gets too thick, simply add more water as needed.

Step 11: Serve Up!

Once done simmering away, serve your Texas chili hot with all your favorite fixins! Whether it’s tortilla chips or sour cream on top, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious dish.

Get ready to impress your family or friends with this amazing Texas chili recipe—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Texas Chili Recipe

Making the perfect Texas chili is all about patience and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to help you create a bowl of chili that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

• Choose your peppers wisely: Using a variety of dried peppers enhances the flavor profile and adds complexity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types based on your heat preference!

• Sear the beef thoroughly: A good sear locks in juices and adds rich flavor. Make sure to get a nice brown crust on all sides of the beef for the best results.

• Let it simmer: The longer you can let your chili simmer, the more flavorful it becomes. This allows all the spices and ingredients to meld together beautifully.

• Adjust thickness as needed: If your chili becomes too thick, simply add a bit of water or broth until you reach the desired consistency. Remember, you can always thicken it more later with masa if needed.

• Taste as you go: Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process. This ensures that every bite is just right, matching your personal taste preferences!

How to Serve Texas Chili Recipe

Serving Texas chili is all about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where everyone can dig into this hearty dish. Here are some delightful ways to present your chili!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the chili.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop of creaminess helps temper the spice and adds a lovely texture.
• Shredded cheese: Melted cheese on top creates indulgent layers of flavor and comfort.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread complements the spicy chili perfectly, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a delightful contrast to the softness of the chili and are perfect for scooping!
• Rice or quinoa: Serving your chili over rice or quinoa makes for a filling meal that stretches your servings further while adding extra nutrients.
• Pickled jalapeños: These tangy bites offer an extra kick and enhance the overall flavor experience, making each bite exciting.

Enjoy crafting this Texas Chili recipe and don’t forget to share it with friends and family! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Texas chili recipe is perfect for meal prep! It not only makes a generous batch but also stores and reheats beautifully, allowing you to enjoy rich, hearty flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you’re using a glass container, make sure it’s tempered to avoid cracking.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions regarding this Texas chili recipe that might help you out!

Can I make this Texas chili recipe without beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with plant-based protein options such as lentils or a meat alternative. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is this Texas chili recipe?

The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, use fewer jalapenos and serranos or omit them altogether.

What makes this Texas chili recipe authentic?

This Texas chili recipe focuses on meat and spices rather than beans, which is a key characteristic of traditional Texan chili. The use of various dried peppers adds depth and flavor.

Can I use fresh peppers instead of dried ones for this Texas chili recipe?

Yes! You can use fresh peppers; just remember that dried peppers offer a unique depth of flavor due to the drying process.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this authentic Texas chili! It’s not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it on your own, this dish is sure to warm your soul. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!