Texas-Style Chili

Texas-style chili is a bold, hearty dish that’s all about rich, meaty flavor without the distraction of beans. This Lone Star State classic is built around tender chunks of beef simmered low and slow in a deeply spiced, savory sauce. It is the kind of comfort food that fills the house with mouthwatering aromas and delivers big, satisfying flavors in every bite.

The key to Texas-style chili is the meat. Unlike other chili varieties that use ground beef, this version typically features cubed chuck roast or brisket, giving it a more robust texture and beef-forward flavor. The beef is seared until browned, which adds depth to the final dish.

The seasoning blend is where the magic happens. Dried chilies like ancho, guajillo, and pasilla are soaked, blended, and simmered to create a rich chili paste. Combined with cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, oregano, and a splash of vinegar, the result is a complex, smoky, and slightly spicy sauce that coats every piece of beef. Some versions include a splash of beer, coffee, or dark chocolate for added richness and depth.

Texas-style chili is simmered slowly until the beef becomes tender and the sauce thickens into a luscious gravy-like consistency. There are no beans or tomatoes in the traditional recipe, keeping the focus squarely on the meat and spices.

Serve it in a bowl with classic toppings like diced onions, shredded cheese, jalapeños, or sour cream. It pairs perfectly with cornbread, tortilla chips, or even over rice or baked potatoes for a heartier meal.

As for drinks, a cold beer like a lager or IPA complements the smoky, spicy flavors beautifully. A bold red wine or a glass of iced tea works just as well, depending on your mood.

Texas-style chili is more than just a dish. It is a celebration of bold flavors, simple ingredients, and the art of slow cooking. Whether for a game day, a cook-off, or a cozy dinner, this chili always satisfies.

Texas-Style Chili

3.66 from 32 votes

A hearty and flavorful chili recipe with a Texan twist.

Servings 8 people

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 bell pepper chopped
• 2 cans Tomatoes (14.5 oz each) diced
• 1 can Tomato sauce 15 oz
• 2 cans kidney beans 15 oz each, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• shredded cheese for garnish
• onions for garnish, chopped

Instructions

 

• In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
• Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook until softened.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
• Simmer the chili for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
• Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese and chopped onions.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gFiber: 10g

Calories: 400kcal

Meal Type: Lunch

Cuisine: American

Keyword: 4th-july, american cuisine, Chili, chili recipe, easy lunch

Cooking Method: Baked

Diet: Meatlovers

Time: >45 Min

Level: Medium

Tried this recipe?Mention @coolinarco or tag #coolinarco!

Texas Cowboy Chili

A hearty and flavorful chili recipe inspired by Texas cowboy cooking.

Check out this recipe

Sweet Chili Shrimp With Asparagus

A delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender asparagus, all coated in a sweet and spicy chili sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Check out this recipe

Chilli Lime Fish

Chilli Lime Fish is a zesty and flavorful dish perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. The combination of the mild heat from the chilli and the tangy brightness of lime creates a refreshing balance that enhances the natural taste of the fish.

Check out this recipe

Chili Mac and Cheese

A hearty and comforting dish that combines the flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese.

Check out this recipe

White Chicken Chili

A hearty and flavorful white chicken chili made with tender chicken, white beans, green chiles, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner.

Check out this recipe

California Turkey Chili

A delicious and hearty California-inspired turkey chili that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any meal.

Check out this recipe

Chili Waffles

A delightful twist on traditional waffles, combining the savoriness of chili with the fluffy texture of waffles for a unique and flavorful meal.

Check out this recipe

Black Bean Lasagna

A delicious and healthy spin on the classic Italian dish, this Black Bean Lasagna is rich with layers of creamy ricotta, hearty black beans, and tangy tomato sauce, all topped with a melt-in-your-mouth mozzarella crust.

Check out this recipe

Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili

A hearty and nutritious chili made with sweet potatoes, black beans, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a cozy meal.

Check out this recipe

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

These Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a delicious and healthy meal option filled with flavorful ingredients, providing a perfect balance of nutrients and taste.

Check out this recipe