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Unique Cowboy Chili

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Unique Cowboy Chili is a smoky, hearty, and rustic twist on classic chili. Packed with beef, beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, corn, and bold spices, this cowboy-inspired recipe delivers robust flavors perfect for family dinners, game nights, or potlucks.

  • Author: Nia Yarden
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef or chuck (or turkey for leaner option)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 cup beef broth (or light beer for extra flavor)
  • 1 tsp espresso powder (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp chipotle chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened and fragrant (5–7 minutes).
  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
  4. Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and chipotle chili powder. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Add fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth (or beer), pinto beans, black beans, corn, and optional espresso powder or BBQ sauce. Stir well.
  6. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 30 minutes to 1 hour for deeper flavor.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Notes

Simmering longer (1–2 hours) enhances the flavor. Cowboy Chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Customize with veggies like zucchini or sweet potatoes, or skip beans for a low-carb version.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.nytrecipe.com/unique-cowboy-chili/