Steak and Beef Chili: A Hearty Recipe for Chili Lovers
This hearty steak and beef chili recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a game-day gathering. Combining the richness of steak with the classic flavors of chili, this recipe delivers a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to cooking techniques, ensuring your chili is a roaring success.
Choosing Your Cuts: Steak & Beef for the Best Chili
The key to an exceptional chili lies in the quality of your meat. For this steak and beef chili, we recommend using a combination of cuts for optimal texture and flavor.
-
Steak: Choose a tougher cut of steak that will break down beautifully during the long cooking process. Chuck steak or sirloin tip are excellent choices. About 1-1.5 lbs will be perfect. Remember to trim excess fat before cooking.
-
Ground Beef: Adding ground beef alongside the steak provides additional richness and depth of flavor. Use about 1 lb of lean ground beef (80/20 blend works well).
Ingredients for your Ultimate Steak & Beef Chili
This recipe makes a generous batch, enough to feed a crowd or have leftovers for days.
- Meats: 1.5 lbs chuck steak, 1 lb lean ground beef
- Aromatics: 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- Spices: 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp oregano, ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat), salt and black pepper to taste
- Liquids: 28 oz crushed tomatoes, 15 oz tomato sauce, 1 cup beef broth
- Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (or your favorite beans!)
- Optional additions: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, a pinch of cinnamon
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Making the Perfect Chili
-
Sear the Steak: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the steak and sear on all sides until browned. Remove the steak and set aside.
-
Sauté Aromatics: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Spice it Up: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
-
Combine and Simmer: Return the seared steak to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, beans, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and brown sugar (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or up to 4 hours for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more tender the steak will become.
-
Shred and Serve: Remove the steak from the chili and shred it with two forks. Stir the shredded steak back into the chili. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
-
Garnish and Enjoy: Serve your delicious steak and beef chili hot, topped with your favorite garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or cilantro.
Tips for the Best Steak and Beef Chili
- Don't be afraid to experiment! Add different beans, vegetables, or spices to customize your chili to your liking.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it a day or two in advance.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Sear the steak and ground beef as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
This steak and beef chili recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its rich flavors and hearty texture will make it a staple in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!
