Craving that iconic Steak 'n Shake chili but don't want to leave the house? This recipe brings the delicious, savory depth of their famous chili right to your kitchen. It’s a perfect example of a healthy meal that's also incredibly satisfying, making it ideal for a quick dinner idea or a cozy weekend meal. Get ready for homemade cooking at its best! This easy recipe is surprisingly simple to follow, resulting in a delicious dish that will impress everyone. It's one of the best recipes you'll find for a truly craveable chili.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 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 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, oyster crackers
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the chopped green bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aroma.
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Simmer the Chili: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a deeper flavor. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste will become.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or oyster crackers.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
- Don't rush the simmering process: Low and slow is key to developing a rich, complex flavor in your chili.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder chili, omit it altogether.
- Use good quality ingredients: The flavor of your chili will be greatly enhanced by using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh onions and garlic.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or other beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Spicy Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- White Chili: Replace the ground beef with shredded chicken and use white beans instead of kidney and pinto beans. Add some corn for extra flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Steak 'n Shake-inspired chili is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Enjoy!