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A hearty bowl of cowboy chili garnished with cheese, sour cream, and cilantro

Cowboy Chili Recipe

A hearty, smoky, and flavorful chili inspired by the Old West, packed with bold spices, tender beef, and rich tomatoes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 bowls
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Dutch Oven or Large Pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Knife

Ingredients
  

Meat

  • 1 pound ground beef or diced beef chuck

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced

Liquids

  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

Spices & Seasoning

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste

Flavor Enhancers

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 1 splash apple cider vinegar

Instructions
 

  • Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  • Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine.
  • Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more spices if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For a smokier flavor, try adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a hearty meal.
Keyword Chili, Hearty, Spicy