If you have been searching for a comforting, rich, and hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Shredded Beef Chili Con Carne Recipe. This dish brings together tender, slow-cooked beef that shreds beautifully, mingling perfectly with bold spices, vibrant tomatoes, and creamy kidney beans. It’s such a satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead. The flavors deepen as it simmers low and slow, making every bite worth the wait. You’re going to love its incredible depth and the way the shredded beef melts right into the chili, creating a texture and taste that’s simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting to know the ingredients for this Shredded Beef Chili Con Carne Recipe is like meeting old friends — each one plays a critical role in shaping the final flavor. The beef chuck roast provides that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the spices and aromatics layer the dish with irresistible warmth and complexity. Let’s dive into this simple yet essential lineup of ingredients that make this chili uniquely delicious:
- 2kg / 4lb beef chuck roast: The star ingredient, chosen for its tenderness and fat marbling that enhances flavor over slow cooking.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown the beef and vegetables, adding a subtle richness.
- 1 tsp each salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to bring out the natural flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant punch that complements the beef perfectly.
- 2 onions, diced (brown, yellow, or white): Give the chili a subtle sweetness and depth as they soften.
- 1 large red capsicum/bell pepper, diced: Adds color and a slight crunch for texture contrast.
- 1/2 cup (125ml) beef broth/stock (or water): Enhances the beefiness and keeps everything moist during slow cooking.
- 800g / 28oz canned red kidney beans, drained (2 x 400g/14oz cans): Creamy beans add body and a wonderful bite.
- 800g/28oz crushed tomato: Brings acidity and richness that balance the hearty beef.
- 1/4 cup tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 cup (250 ml) beef broth/stock: Boosts flavor and ensures the chili isn’t dry.
- 1 tbsp each cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, smoked paprika (or plain paprika): The warm, earthy spices that give the chili its signature taste.
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste): Adds a pleasant kick of heat.
- 1 tsp salt: Season to bring out all the flavors fully.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: For subtle spice and balance.
- 3 tbsp cornflour/corn starch: Used at the end to thicken the chili to perfection.
- 1/4 cup (65ml) beef broth/stock or water: To dissolve the cornflour and create a smooth finish.
How to Make Shredded Beef Chili Con Carne Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Brown the Beef
First, pat your beef chuck roast dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides until it develops a rich golden crust. This is where much of the flavor begins, so don’t rush—those beautifully caramelized edges make a difference!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Remove the browned beef and set it aside. In the same pot, add the diced onions, garlic, and diced red capsicum. Cook gently until the onions become translucent and the mixture smells wonderfully fragrant. These softened veggies provide both sweetness and depth, building a strong flavor base for the chili.
Step 3: Add Spices and Liquids
Sprinkle in the cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the aromatics and toast the spices just slightly—this step intensifies their flavors. Then add the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Give it all a good stir, making sure everything is well combined before returning the beef to the pot.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Chili
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 8 hours or until the beef becomes so tender that it falls apart at the touch of a fork. This slow cooking is the magic that transforms your beef into those beautiful shreds full of flavor. Make sure to check occasionally and stir to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Shred Beef and Thicken Sauce
Once the beef is tender, carefully remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the chili and mix well. To thicken the chili, stir together the cornflour with beef broth or water until smooth, then slowly whisk it into the simmering chili. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce is luxuriously thickened and everything is beautifully combined.
How to Serve Shredded Beef Chili Con Carne Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your chili brings a fresh, vibrant contrast to the deep, hearty flavors. Freshly chopped cilantro or parsley adds a burst of color and an herbal brightness. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt that adds a cool, creamy layer. For a cheesy touch, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack right on top. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten every mouthful, giving it just the right zing.
Side Dishes
Serving this dish with the right sides can transform your meal into a feast. Warm cornbread or freshly baked crusty bread are unbeatable for soaking up that rich chili sauce. A simple side of steamed rice or fluffy quinoa pairs beautifully, balancing the chili’s bold flavors. For a healthier crunch, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is also a fantastic companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your friends or family? Try serving this shredded beef chili con carne in individual mini cast iron skillets or ramekins — it’s rustic and inviting. Layer it over baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives for a loaded potato twist. Or turn it into a chili nachos platter by spooning over tortilla chips, then topping with cheese and jalapeños for a fun sharing dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Shredded Beef Chili Con Carne Recipe tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Store your leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld beautifully during this time.
Freezing
To enjoy this chili later, freeze it in portion-sized containers. Properly stored, it will keep well for up to 3 months without losing any of its fantastic flavor or texture. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing and leave some headspace in the container for expansion.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may want to add a splash of beef broth or water if it feels too thick. Alternatively, use a microwave in short bursts, stirring between each to ensure even warming. It will taste just as sensational as the first time you made it.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While beef chuck roast is ideal because of its fat content and tenderness after slow cooking, you can use other cuts like brisket or short ribs. Just be prepared for slightly different cooking times or textures.
How spicy is this Shredded Beef Chili Con Carne Recipe?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the cayenne pepper. You can adjust it according to your preference by adding more for extra kick or less for a milder chili.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics on the stove first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours until the beef shreds easily.
What can I substitute for kidney beans?
If kidney beans aren’t your favorite or you have dietary restrictions, black beans or pinto beans work great as substitutes and will blend nicely with the chili’s flavors.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, this shredded beef chili freezes beautifully. Store it in airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that rich, slow-cooked flavor intact.
Final Thoughts
This Shredded Beef Chili Con Carne Recipe is one of those dishes that brings people together, whether you’re feeding a big family, hosting friends, or just craving something cozy and flavorful. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with comforting textures, deep spices, and that unbeatable slow-cooked tenderness. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a treasured staple in your recipe collection—you’ll keep coming back for more bowl after delicious bowl.
