This cowboy chili recipe combines the robust flavors of beef, beans, and spices, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or a cozy night in. It’s a versatile beef chili recipe that can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients.
Whether you’re looking for stew beef recipes or chili ideas, this recipe stands out as one of the best chili recipes you’ll find, delivering a satisfying and hearty meal.
Delicious Cowboy Chili Recipe

This cowboy chili features tender chunks of beef simmered with kidney beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices for a rich and flavorful dish. The recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds stew beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or cilantro
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the stew beef and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the chili is too thick, add more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g






