Are you craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful meal that’s also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This chili recipe, featuring tender chuck roast, is the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. It’s a delicious dish that’s packed with hearty ingredients and robust flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and even better the next day, making it a fantastic choice for meal prepping. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients for the Best Chili
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings of delicious chili. Adjust quantities as needed for your crowd.
- 3 lbs boneless chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions: Cooking a Delicious Chuck Roast Chili
This easy recipe is perfect for beginners, making delicious dishes effortlessly. Follow these simple steps for a perfect chili:
-
Sear the Beef: Season the chuck roast cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This step adds incredible depth of flavor. Set the browned beef aside.
-
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell peppers to the pot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Simmer to Perfection: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 hours, or until the chuck roast is incredibly tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes! Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once the chili is cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, topped with your favorite chili toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or cilantro.
Tips for the Best Chili
- Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier approach, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level to your preference. For a milder chili, omit it entirely.
- Bean Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or chickpeas.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like corn, carrots, or zucchini.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This hearty and flavorful chili recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also healthy meals. The chuck roast adds a rich depth of flavor, while the beans and vegetables provide valuable nutrients. It’s a versatile and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!