Steak chili is a rich, hearty, and flavorful variation of the traditional chili recipe. Using tender pieces of steak instead of ground beef adds a gourmet touch to this beloved comfort food.
Perfect for cold nights, game days, or family gatherings, this steak chili recipe will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details of creating this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
2 lbs of steak (sirloin, ribeye, or chuck), cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 bell peppers (red and green), diced
2 jalapeños, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cans (15 oz each) of diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
2 cups of beef broth
3 tablespoons of chili powder
1 tablespoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Diced avocado
Lime wedges
Tortilla chips or cornbread
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Season the steak: Generously season the steak cubes with salt and pepper.
Brown the steak: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes and sear them until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the steak from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Cook the onions: In the same pot, add the diced onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent.
Add garlic and peppers: Stir in the minced garlic, diced bell peppers, and jalapeños. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add tomatoes and beans: Return the browned steak to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, and black beans.
Pour in the broth: Stir in the beef broth to create a rich base for the chili.
Season: Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
Bring to a boil: Increase the heat and bring the chili to a gentle boil.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. The longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors will meld together.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serving
Adjust seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
Serve: Ladle the steak chili into bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with tortilla chips or cornbread on the side.
Tips for the Perfect Steak Chili
Choose the right steak: Opt for cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or chuck that have good marbling and will become tender during the simmering process.
Customize the heat: Adjust the number of jalapeños or add other chili peppers to suit your heat preference.
Make ahead: Steak chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers.
Steak chili is a delightful and indulgent twist on the classic chili recipe. The tender chunks of steak, combined with the robust flavors of tomatoes, beans, and spices, make this dish a standout. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a game day feast, this steak chili will surely impress and satisfy everyone’s appetite.
Variations and Add-Ins
Steak chili is a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking. Here are some variations and add-ins to consider:
Different Meats
Mix it up: Use a combination of steak and ground beef, pork, or sausage for varied textures and flavors.
Game meat: For a unique twist, try using game meats like venison or bison, which add a rich and earthy flavor to the chili.
Vegetables
Corn: Add a can of corn (drained) or frozen corn for a touch of sweetness.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms can add a meaty texture and enhance the umami flavor.
Zucchini or Squash: Dice these vegetables and add them for extra nutrition and a bit of crunch.
Beans and Legumes
Different beans: Substitute or add other types of beans such as pinto beans, white beans, or chickpeas.
Lentils: Adding lentils can give the chili a different texture and additional protein.
Spices and Flavorings
Chipotle peppers: Add chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky heat.
Cocoa powder or dark chocolate: A small amount of unsweetened cocoa powder or dark chocolate can add depth and richness to the chili.
Beer: Substitute part of the beef broth with a dark beer for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Making Steak Chili in a Slow Cooker
If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker:
Sear the steak: As directed in the original recipe, season and brown the steak in a skillet.
Sauté the vegetables: Cook the onions, garlic, and peppers in the same skillet.
Combine ingredients: Transfer the seared steak, sautéed vegetables, and all other ingredients into the slow cooker.
Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Finish and serve: Adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve with your favorite toppings.
Pairing Suggestions
Steak chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and beverages:
Sides
Cornbread: A classic side that complements the chili’s flavors perfectly.
Rice: Serve the chili over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chili.
Nachos: Use the chili as a topping for nachos, along with cheese, jalapeños, and guacamole.
Beverages
Beer: A cold, robust beer like an IPA or a stout pairs well with the hearty flavors of steak chili.
Red wine: A full-bodied red wine, such as a Zinfandel or Malbec, complements the rich, spicy flavors.
Non-alcoholic: A glass of iced tea or a citrusy soda can be a refreshing contrast to the chili’s heat.
Storing and Reheating
Steak chili stores well and often tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Refrigerate: Allow the chili to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally.
Steak chili is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser, while its flexibility allows you to adapt it to your tastes and preferences. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a party, or meal prepping for the week, this steak chili recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and finding your perfect version of this delicious dish!
