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.
Ingredients
- 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
Not sure why people rave about this recipe. It’s just chili. Kinda bland imo.
I added some beans and forgot the cheese. Still yummy!
Good
Nice one
amazing
yes
This chili sounds amazing! Can’t wait to try it.
I can’t wait to try this recipe! Looks delicious!
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Chili is famous in Texas for not having beans, Texans will not eat chili with beans.
A little research would have been useful
Beans in”Texas chili”? The whole thing about Texas chili is it DOES NOT CONTAIN BEANS. I’m sure this would pass for chili in New Yawk, but not in the Lone Star State.
I dunno, I think it’s too spicy with the cayenne. My kids didn’t like it. 🤷♂️
Beans in Texas chili? Otherwise pretty good recipe, but not much different than a million others.
This chili is so good! Perfect for game day!
Wow, just wow! This chili recipe is the best thing I ever made! ❤️
Chili doesn’t need to boil for 2 hours!!! It’s already cooked, just heat it!!!
I followed the recipe but mine turned out a little too spicy. Maybe I used too much cayenne? 🤔
Too much meat! Next time, I will cut down on the beef and add more veggies instead.
Yum! I put some corn in it and it was wonderful. Will definitely make again!
This chili is the BEST! I add a few more spices and it comes out amazing.
It was ok, but I think chili shouldn’t have beans. That’s just how we do it in Texas!
This recipe is too complicated! I just wanted something quick for dinner. Don’t think I will try it again.
Meh, could use more flavor. Just tasted like meat and tomato. Needs more seasoning.
Try adding some extra spices like oregano or even a bit of hot sauce. It might kick it up a notch! 😊
Chili needs beans? Who put beans in chili? That’s not how my grandma made it 😡
Yum! I didn’t have cayenne so I used hot sauce. Still soooo good!
Hot sauce is a perfect substitute! Glad you enjoyed it!
I used turkey instead of beef and it turned out great! Healthy and tasty. Good recipe.
It was good, but not spicy enough for my taste. I added a lot more cayenne, and it did help.
Wow, this recipe was a hit at my BBQ! Everyone kept asking for seconds! Thanks!
This chili is fantastic! So rich and filling. My whole family loved it. Will be making again!
It’s just ok. I’ve had way better chili at competitions. Kinda bland, honestly.
Made it the night before and reheated it, even better! Perfect comfort food for winter.