Beef Chili Recipe With Stew Meat - Hearty Food Ideas
When you think of beef chili, a whole world of pairing options comes to mind that can elevate your meal. I’ve found that cornbread is a classic companion—its sweet crumb balances out the spice beautifully. A simple green salad adds freshness, cutting through the richness of the chili. If you’re feeling adventurous, jalapeño cheddar muffins take those flavors to the next level. Finally, don’t forget about a refreshing beer or homemade limeade to cool off the heat!
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword Beef chili recipe with stew meat
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 2 hourshours
Total Time 2 hourshours15 minutesminutes
Servings 10
Calories 400kcal
Cost $
Ingredients
Ingredients for the Stew:
2poundsstewing beef
1largeonion, thinly sliced or diced
2tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
6ouncestomato paste1 small can
84ouncescanned tomatoeswhole or diced, or a mix of both, 3 large cans
15ounces15.5-19 kidney beans, rinsed and drained1 can
15ounces15.5-19 mixed beans, rinsed and drained1 can
1/4cupall-purpose flour
1/4teaspoonfreshly cracked black pepper
Chili seasoningor 1.25 ounces of chili seasoning packet
Chili Seasoning:
1tablespoongarlic powder
1tablespoonchili powder
1tablespoonground cumin
1tablespoonsmoked paprikafor added depth
1tablespoondried oregano
1teaspoondried basil
1/2teaspoonblack pepper
1teaspoonground corianderfor a citrusy hint
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion and set it aside. This step makes everything smoother down the line.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season your stew meat with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot in batches. You want to sear the beef until it’s brown on all sides. This step builds flavor in the chili.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Once browned, remove the beef and add the diced onions to the same pot. Sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. This adds sweetness to the dish.
Step 4: Add the Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional couple of minutes. This step caramelizes the sugars in the paste, enhancing the flavor profile.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Now, reintroduce the beef to the pot. Pour in the canned tomatoes, including their juices. Next, add the drained beans, flour, and all the spices. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Simmer
Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least an hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you have time, letting it go for two hours will yield incredible results.
Step 7: Final Touches
After simmering, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If it needs more heat, sprinkle in more chili powder.
Notes
Prepping Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time for gatherings.
Chili Thickness: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans before adding them.
Serving Suggestions: Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or slices of avocado.
Storage: This chili freezes beautifully. Portion it out for later enjoyment.
Customizing Spice: Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your heat preference.