Steak And Beef Chili Recipe – Hearty & Flavorful

What Makes This Steak and Beef Chili Recipe Unique?

If you’ve ever made or enjoyed a classic chili, you know how comforting and hearty it can be. But have you ever tried steak and beef chili? This variation brings a whole new level of flavor and texture to your favorite chili recipe.

By combining two meats—steak and ground beef—this recipe offers a rich, meaty texture and deep flavor that will elevate your chili to something truly special. The searing of the steak adds an extra dimension of smoky, caramelized flavor that just can’t be achieved by using ground beef alone. Plus, the beef provides a traditional chili base, keeping the dish hearty and filling.

Steak also brings a richness to the chili, creating a more complex flavor profile, while the beef balances out the dish. Whether you choose sirloin, flank steak, or a ribeye, using steak in chili is an excellent way to take this comfort food to the next level.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Steak and Beef Chili

The key to a perfect steak and beef chili lies in using high-quality ingredients. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to create a rich, flavorful bowl of chili that will keep everyone coming back for seconds:

Essential Ingredients:

Steak (1 lb): Choose cuts like sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye. These are perfect for chili as they are tender enough to break down during cooking but still retain great texture.
Ground Beef (1 lb): Adds richness and serves as the base of the chili.
Onions (1 large): Yellow or white onions work best for a slightly sweet base.
Garlic (3 cloves): Fresh garlic is essential for that aromatic depth of flavor.
Bell Peppers (2, any color): A mix of colors adds vibrancy and sweetness.
Canned Diced Tomatoes (2 cans, 14.5 oz each): Provides the necessary liquid and tang.
Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Adds depth and helps thicken the chili.
Beef Broth (2 cups): For a rich, meaty base.
Chili Powder (2 tbsp): The primary seasoning that gives chili its iconic taste.
Ground Cumin (1 tsp): Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): A smoky, slightly sweet flavor enhancer.
Red Kidney Beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Adds texture and heartiness.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the vegetables and browning the meat.

Optional Toppings:

Sour Cream: For a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy chili.
Cheddar Cheese (shredded): Adds richness and flavor.
Green Onions: Freshness and a mild, sharp bite.
Fresh Cilantro: A refreshing, herbaceous garnish.

How to Make the Perfect Steak and Beef Chili – Step by Step

Creating the perfect steak and beef chili is a journey, and while the process is straightforward, the technique is key to achieving maximum flavor. Let’s break down each step so you can master this dish.

Step 1: Preparing the Steak and Beef

To start, cut the steak into small cubes. If you’re using a cut like flank steak, trim off any excess fat, then slice against the grain for tenderness. For cuts like sirloin or ribeye, you can simply cube the meat. Searing the steak is essential to lock in the juices and develop a deeper flavor.

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the steak cubes in batches, sear them on all sides until browned. Remove the steak and set it aside.

Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables and Aromatics

Now, sauté the onions, garlic, and bell peppers in the same pot where you browned the steak. This helps to pick up all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot from the searing process.

Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pot.
Stir in the onions and cook until they become soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
Add the garlic and bell peppers, cooking for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 3: Adding Liquids and Seasonings

Once the vegetables are soft and aromatic, it’s time to add the tomatoes and spices.

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
Add your chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any caramelized bits.

Step 4: Simmering for Flavor Depth

Let the chili simmer on low heat for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour. This allows all the flavors to meld together and the steak to tenderize further. The chili will thicken as it cooks, and the beef will break down, making it even more flavorful.

Step 5: Adjusting for Texture and Consistency

After the chili has simmered, add the kidney beans and let them cook for an additional 10 minutes. If you prefer a thicker chili, you can use a potato masher to slightly mash some of the beans. If it’s too thick, feel free to add a little more broth.

What Are the Best Cuts of Steak for Chili?

The choice of steak is crucial for making the best steak and beef chili. The right cut can make a huge difference in texture and flavor. Here are the best steak cuts to use for chili:

Steak Cut	Best For	Texture & Flavor
Sirloin	Ideal for tenderness and flavor without being too fatty	Lean but tender, with a mild beef flavor
Flank	Great for cutting against the grain for a chewable texture	Lean, slightly chewy, with a beefy flavor
Ribeye	Rich flavor and juiciness	Marbled fat that melts into the chili, offering richness
Chuck	Budget-friendly and flavor-packed	Tough but becomes tender with slow cooking

Can I Make Steak and Beef Chili in a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! The slow cooker is an excellent option for making steak and beef chili because it allows all the flavors to develop over time. Here’s how you can adapt the recipe for the slow cooker:

Sear the steak and beef in a pan before adding to the slow cooker.
Transfer all ingredients (vegetables, broth, beans, and spices) to the slow cooker.
Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Slow cooking results in a super tender and flavorful chili.

What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve with Steak and Beef Chili?

To complement the richness of the steak and beef chili, you’ll want side dishes that balance out the meal and add texture. Here are some of the best side dishes:

Cornbread: A classic choice, with a slightly sweet flavor to balance the spice.
Rice: Serve the chili over white or brown rice for an easy, filling option.
Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping or serving on the side to add crunch.
Green Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty lime dressing can add a refreshing contrast.
Baked Potatoes: The rich, creamy texture of a baked potato pairs wonderfully with chili.

How to Store and Reheat Your Steak and Beef Chili

Leftover chili? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Storage: Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze chili for up to 3 months. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth to adjust the consistency if needed. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl.

Variations of Steak and Beef Chili

Want to change things up? Here are a few variations you can try:

Spicy Steak and Beef Chili: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or a diced habanero pepper.
Beer Chili: Swap out some of the beef broth for a dark beer to add malty richness.
Sweet Potato Chili: Add diced sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory combination.
Vegetarian Chili: Replace the steak and beef with lentils, beans, or tofu for a plant-based option.

Tips for Making the Best Steak and Beef Chili Every Time

Sear your meat well: Browning the steak enhances the chili’s depth of flavor.
Season early: Add seasonings as you go to develop complex flavors.
Don’t rush the simmering: Give your chili time to cook and develop rich flavors.
Balance the heat: Add cayenne or chili powder gradually to control the spice level.
Taste test: Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to your liking before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Steak and Beef Chili

Can I use only one type of meat?
Yes, if you prefer, you can use either just steak or just beef. However, the combination gives the best results in terms of flavor and texture.

How do I make my chili less spicy?
Add less chili powder, or balance out the heat with a bit of sour cream or sugar.

Can I make this chili gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure the broth and any spices used are gluten-free.

Conclusion – Enjoy Your Delicious Steak and Beef Chili

Now that you know how to make the perfect steak and beef chili, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! Whether you make it in the slow cooker or on the stove, this hearty, flavorful dish will satisfy everyone at the table. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings and side dishes!

Let us know how your chili turned out in the comments below, and share this recipe with your friends! Enjoy!