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–+ servings
Texas Chili A bowl of thick Texas chili topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, chopped onions, and fresh cilantro, with a spoon scooping a hearty bite and cornbread in the background.

Texas Chili

A smoky, rich, and budget-friendly Texas Chili made with ground beef, chipotles, and warm spices for a satisfying and hearty meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 366
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb. ground beef Use 80/20 for more flavor and moisture
  • ½ teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper Freshly cracked for best flavor
  • 1 onion small dice, about 265g or 2 cups
  • 1 jalapeño Deseeded and finely diced, about 30g or 2 Tbsp
  • 3 garlic cloves Minced, about 9g or 1 heaping Tbsp
  • 2 tablespoon tomato paste Adds richness to the chili
  • ½ tablespoon chili powder Mild, can use homemade if preferred
  • ½ tablespoon paprika For added smokiness
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin For earthiness
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano Herbal note
  • ¼ teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder For depth of flavor
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar Balancing the spices
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon Subtle warmth
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce Finely chopped, adds smokiness and heat
  • 14.5 oz. can petite diced tomatoes In juice for added richness
  • 2 cups beef broth Can use Better Than Bouillon for cost-effectiveness

Method
 

  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. cook
  2. Once browned, remove the ground beef using a slotted spoon, leaving the grease in the pot. Set it aside. prep
  3. Add the diced onion, jalapeño, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. cook
  4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. cook
  5. Sprinkle in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, cocoa powder, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute to allow the spices to bloom. cook
  6. Return the browned beef and any drippings to the pot. Add the chopped chipotle peppers, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and beef broth. Bring to a simmer. mix
  7. Once simmering, reduce the heat and let the chili cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. cook
  8. Once the chili has thickened, garnish with your favorite toppings and serve. finish

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 366kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 24gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 1031mgPotassium: 748mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This Texas Chili brings a rich, smoky flavor that’s perfect for cool evenings. It’s simple to make with a few pantry staples and delivers big comfort!

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