Texas Chili Recipe - Step By Step Guide

How to Make Authentic Texas Chili: A Hearty, No-Beans Classic

Texas chili, also known as "chili con carne," is a bold, meaty dish that skips the beans and lets rich, smoky flavors shine. It’s a Lone Star State classic that’s perfect for game days, family dinners, or cold-weather comfort food. This step-by-step guide will show you how to make authentic Texas chili with tender chunks of beef, a robust blend of spices, and a rich, flavorful sauce.

What Makes Texas Chili Unique?

Unlike other chili recipes, Texas chili is all about the meat. There are no beans or tomatoes—just beef, chiles, and spices that simmer together into a deeply satisfying dish. It’s hearty, flavorful, and unapologetically Texan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chili:

3 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 cup water (as needed for consistency)
3 dried ancho chiles, stemmed, seeded, and soaked in hot water until soft
1 dried guajillo chile, stemmed, seeded, and soaked
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

Diced onions
Shredded cheese
Sliced jalapeños
Sour cream
Fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chiles

Soak the dried ancho and guajillo chiles in hot water for 20 minutes until softened.
Drain the chiles and blend them into a smooth paste with a few tablespoons of their soaking liquid. Set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Flavor

Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned beef to the pot.
Pour in the beef broth and blended chile paste, stirring to combine.
Add water as needed to ensure the beef is mostly submerged in liquid.

Step 6: Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Cook until the beef is tender and the sauce is thick and rich.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the chili and adjust the salt, pepper, or spice level to your liking.
If the chili is too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the Texas chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as diced onions, shredded cheese, or sour cream.
Serve hot with cornbread, crackers, or warm tortillas.

Tips for the Perfect Texas Chili

Use the Right Meat: Beef chuck or brisket works best for its flavor and texture. Avoid ground beef for an authentic touch.
Don’t Rush the Simmer: Low and slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Control the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper and chile paste to suit your spice tolerance.
Make It Ahead: Texas chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen over time.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the chili on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Texas chili is hearty, satisfying, and packed with smoky, savory flavors. Its bold, meat-forward profile makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a comforting bowl of chili, this recipe is sure to please. Try it and experience the rich tradition of Texas cuisine!