Name: Cowboy Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 pound extra lean ground beef; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 1 (15-ounce) can chopped stewed tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained; 1/2 teaspoon salt

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If you’re looking for a dish that warms the soul and brings everyone together, you’ve come to the right place! This Cowboy Chili is a family favorite of mine, perfect for cozy nights in or lively gatherings. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up on busy weeknights!

This recipe is special because it’s not just delicious; it’s also versatile. You can adjust the spices to suit your taste or add your favorite toppings for an extra kick. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this Cowboy Chili will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this chili simmering on the stove.
Family-Friendly: With its mild yet flavorful taste, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this chili in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve, making it ideal for meal prep.
Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spices easily to create your perfect bowl of chili. Add more heat if you like!
Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and beans, this Cowboy Chili will leave you satisfied without feeling heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Cowboy Chili, you’ll use simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

3/4 pound extra lean ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 (15-ounce) can chopped stewed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 teaspoon salt

Variations

One of the best things about Cowboy Chili is how flexible it is! Here are some fun variations to try out:

Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add some heat: Toss in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like your chili spicy!
Go vegetarian: Replace the meat with additional beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
Top it off: Serve with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.

How to Make Cowboy Chili

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Start by cooking the ground beef along with minced garlic and chopped onion in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir everything together for about 10 minutes until the beef is browned. It’s important to drain any excess liquid at this stage so your chili doesn’t get watery.

Step 2: Mix in the Tomatoes and Spices

Next, stir in those vibrant chopped stewed tomatoes along with beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. These spices are where all that wonderful flavor comes from!

Step 3: Let It Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and cover your saucepan. Let everything simmer gently for an hour while stirring occasionally. This step allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully—trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Step 4: Add Beans and Season

Finally, stir in your rinsed pinto beans along with salt. Give it another 15 minutes on low heat. Your kitchen will smell incredible by now! Once done, ladle into bowls and enjoy every comforting bite.

Now that you’ve made this delightful Cowboy Chili, gather around with family or friends and savor each moment together!

Pro Tips for Making Cowboy Chili

Making the perfect Cowboy Chili can be a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights!

Choose quality beef: Using extra lean ground beef not only reduces fat but also allows the flavors of your spices and beans to shine through without being overpowered.
Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the chili to simmer slowly helps the flavors meld beautifully. This patience pays off in a richer, deeper taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Customize your spice level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your preference. If you like it spicy, add more; if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce it. This way, everyone at your table can enjoy their own version of Cowboy Chili.
Experiment with toppings: Adding different garnishes like chopped cilantro or avocado can bring freshness and contrast to the hearty dish, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Make it ahead of time: Chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Consider making it a day in advance for an even tastier meal!

How to Serve Cowboy Chili

Serving Cowboy Chili is where you can truly get creative and make it an inviting meal for friends and family. Here are some fun ideas on how to present this hearty dish that everyone will love.

Garnishes

Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese adds creaminess and richness that complements the spiciness of the chili.
Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or plant-based yogurt balances out the heat and adds a cooling effect, making each bowl even more enjoyable.
Fresh herbs: Chopped cilantro or green onions bring brightness and freshness that elevate the overall flavor profile of your chili.

Side Dishes

Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread is perfect for soaking up all those delicious chili juices. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
Rice: Serving your Cowboy Chili over fluffy rice not only adds substance but also creates a comforting blanket under all that flavorful goodness.
Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a delightful texture contrast and are perfect for scooping up chili. They’re a fun addition that everyone loves!
Salad: A fresh green salad with light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili, balancing out your meal beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Cowboy Chili experience! Enjoy every savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Cowboy Chili is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week. You can prepare a big batch in advance and store it for later use, ensuring you always have a comforting dish on hand.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
Transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Let the chili cool down completely.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Cowboy Chili that might help you make this recipe even better!

Can I customize my Cowboy Chili?

Absolutely! Cowboy Chili is versatile. You can add ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or even jalapeños for extra heat. Adjust the spices according to your taste!

What makes Cowboy Chili different from other chili recipes?

Cowboy Chili typically features lean ground beef and is seasoned with a robust blend of spices. It’s hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy meal or gathering with friends.

How long does Cowboy Chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Cowboy Chili can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Cowboy Chili vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or increase the quantity of beans and vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cowboy Chili! Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it not just a meal but an experience to share with loved ones. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own spin on this classic dish. Happy cooking!

Dinner

Cowboy Chili

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6
Category: Main
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

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Description

If you’re searching for a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering, look no further than this Cowboy Chili. This hearty recipe is a family favorite, ideal for cozy nights in or lively get-togethers. With its rich flavors and filling ingredients, this chili is both satisfying and easy to make on busy weeknights. Customize the spices to match your palate or top it off with your favorite garnishes for an extra touch of flavor. Perfect for meal prep, this Cowboy Chili will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

3/4 pound extra lean ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 (15-ounce) can chopped stewed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef, minced garlic, and chopped onion for about 10 minutes until the beef is browned. Drain any excess liquid.
Stir in the chopped stewed tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
Reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer gently for one hour, stirring occasionally.
Add rinsed pinto beans and salt; simmer for an additional 15 minutes.