Name: Texas Chili
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Texan
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp chili powder; 1 tbsp ground cumin; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 2 cups beef broth; 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste

Hey y’all! If you’re searching for that perfect bowl of Texas Chili, you’ve hit the jackpot. This recipe brings the bold, spicy, and smoky flavors Texans love—no beans, all beef, and a slow-simmered sauce that’s totally irresistible. It’s your new go-to for game days, family dinners, or anytime you want comfort in a bowl. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Texas Chili

Classic, authentic Texas flavor without any beans.
Rich, complex, and hearty—perfect for feeding a crowd.
Simple pantry ingredients create deep, smoky spice.
Easy to make ahead and tastes even better the next day.
Customizable heat levels for every palate.

Texas Chili Ingredients

3 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp chili powder (preferably ancho or a Texas blend—see here)
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp brown sugar
Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Texas Chili

Step 1: Prep and Brown the Beef

Pat beef chuck pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches, brown the beef on all sides (about 5-7 minutes per batch). Remove beef and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add remaining oil, then the chopped onions. Cook until translucent and golden, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Build the Texas Chili Spice Base

Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne. Toast spices for 30 seconds to bloom their flavor.
Mix in tomato paste and brown for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Return beef to the pot. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir well.
Bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fork-tender and sauce is thickened.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Skim off any excess fat. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot and garnish as desired.

Notes for the Best Texas Chili

Use high-quality chili powder for the most authentic Texas taste—read more about blends at Epicurious.
Browning the beef in batches helps develop rich, deep flavor by allowing for proper caramelization.
If your chili is too thick, add more broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered until reduced.

Texas Chili Variations

Spicy Texas Chili: Add diced jalapeño or chipotle peppers for a fiery kick.
Slow Cooker Texas Chili: After browning beef and onions, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Venison Texas Chili: Swap beef for cubed venison for a gamey, robust flavor.

Required Equipment for Texas Chili

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Sharp chef’s knife
Cutting board
Ladle
Wooden spoon or spatula

Storage Instructions (Texas Chili Shelf Life)

Cool leftover Texas Chili to room temperature and transfer to airtight containers.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Texas Chili Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm cornbread, fluffy rice, or over baked potatoes.
Garnish with diced onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime.
Pair with an ice-cold lager or sweet iced tea for the ultimate Texan experience.

Texas Chili Pro Tips

Let the chili rest 15-20 minutes after cooking so flavors meld and intensify (more chili tips at Food Network Essentials).
Cut beef into equal-sized cubes to ensure even, tender results throughout.
Adjust heat to your preference but start with less—it’s easier to add more than take it out!

Texas Chili FAQ

Does Texas Chili have beans?: Nope! Authentic Texas Chili is strictly no beans—just beef and rich, spicy sauce.
Can I make Texas Chili in advance?: Absolutely. In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
What cut of beef is best for Texas Chili?: Beef chuck works great for tender, flavorful bites that stand up to slow simmering.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Texas Chili

Why You’ll Love This Texas Chili

Texas Chili Ingredients