This Beer Chili is a delicious blend of beans, ground meat, and spices, all simmered with a splash of tasty beer. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for cozy nights!
I love how the beer adds a unique twist to traditional chili. Plus, it’s a great excuse to crack open a cold one while cooking. Who wouldn’t want that? Cheers! 🍻
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds richness to your chili. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great too. Vegetarians can use lentils or a mix of beans instead!
Beer: Any light lager or ale will do well in this dish. If you’re not keen on using alcohol, try a non-alcoholic beer or even beef broth for a different flavor.
Beans: Kidney beans are a classic choice, but black beans or pinto beans can also be used. Just make sure they are rinsed and drained to keep the chili from being too starchy.
Spices: The spices bring the flavor to life! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works, just make sure to add a bit more chili powder for that kick. For a milder version, skip the cayenne pepper.
How Do I Get My Chili to Have the Best Flavor?
For a deep, rich flavor, it’s crucial to sauté the onions and garlic first. This builds a good base. Make sure to not rush the browning of the meat either; letting it brown well will add a lot of flavor to your chili!
- Cook onions until they’re soft and translucent, around 4-5 minutes.
- Brown the beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up well, about 6-8 minutes.
- To layer the flavors, toast the spices with the meat and onion mixture. This is a game changer!
- Allow the chili to simmer uncovered. This will help to thicken it and meld all those delicious flavors together.
Beer Chili Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale works well)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Toppings:
- shredded cheddar cheese
- sour cream
- sliced green onions
Time Needed:
This Beer Chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to cook, making a total of about 55 minutes from start to finish.
Detailed Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and translucent, which should take around 4-5 minutes.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, just until it becomes fragrant—this should only take about a minute, so stay close!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef. Use your spoon to break it up as it cooks, stirring frequently until it’s browned and no longer pink, which will take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Stir in the Spices:
Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) into the pot. Mix everything together and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes to really bring out the flavors of the spices.
5. Add the Beer:
Pour the beer into the pot, making sure to scrape the bottom to release any delicious browned bits stuck there. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine Tomatoes and Beans:
Add in the can of diced tomatoes and kidney beans. Stir everything together well to ensure it’s all mixed.
7. Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and let your chili simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. This helps it thicken up nicely. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to gauge the thickness as it cooks.
8. Taste and Adjust:
After the simmering time, taste the chili and adjust any seasonings if needed. If you like it spicier, this is the time to add more cayenne pepper!
9. Serve:
Once it’s thickened to your liking, serve hot! Top each bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some sliced green onions for freshness.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Beer Chili! It’s a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy nights in. Cheers to great food!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a deliciously lighter chili.
What Type of Beer Should I Use?
A light lager or ale works best for this recipe. However, feel free to get creative! Just avoid overly bitter beers, as they can change the flavor profile. If you’d prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with beef broth for a similar depth of flavor.
Can I Make This Chili in Advance?
Yes, this chili is excellent for meal prep! You can make it a day or two in advance, and the flavors will meld beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy it.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
