Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 scorching hot Texas chili recipes! The Lone Star State is famous for its bold flavors and hearty meals, and what’s more iconic than a steaming bowl of slow-cooked chili? Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegetarian, there’s something on this list for everyone. From classic beef and bean combinations to unique twists featuring venison, dark beer, and even sweet potatoes, these recipes will keep you coming back for more.
In this article, we’ll explore the rich flavors of Texas chili, from traditional red chilies to creamy white chicken versions. With a range of heat levels and ingredient combinations, you’re sure to find your new favorite recipe among these 18 spicy Texas chili recipes. So grab a spoon and dig in – it’s chili time!
Classic Texas Beef Chili with Beans
A hearty, comforting chili that’s perfect for a cold winter night or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups of cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) of red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– 2 cups of beef broth
– 1/4 cup of water
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chopped bell peppers, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the cooked beans, diced tomatoes, flour, beef broth, and water to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Texas Red Chili
This hearty slow-cooked chili is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and a hint of spice. Serve it over rice or with some crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and add the chopped tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Smoky Chipotle Texas Chili
This bold and smoky chili recipe combines the rich flavors of chipotle peppers with tender ground beef and a hint of Texas-style spice. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this hearty dish is sure to satisfy any appetite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced onions for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chopped chipotle pepper and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Texas Venison Chili with Dark Beer
A hearty, bold chili recipe that combines the rich flavors of Texas venison with the deep, dark notes of a robust beer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup dark beer (such as Guinness or Porter)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground venison in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and dark beer. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spicy Texas Chili with Cornbread Topping
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this bold and flavorful chili recipe, topped with a crispy cornbread crust. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cornbread topping ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 cup milk, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, beans, and beef broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
7. Mix cornbread topping ingredients in a bowl; pour over chili.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Texas-Style White Chicken Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy white sauce, all wrapped up in a flavorful blend of spices and herbs. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
2. Add onions, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and diced tomatoes. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add kidney beans, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Texas Chili Con Carne with Cocoa Powder
This recipe takes the traditional Texas chili con carne to a new level by adding a hint of cocoa powder, giving it a deep, velvety flavor. Perfect for a cozy evening or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup cocoa powder
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cocoa powder and stir to combine.
5. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
Cooking Time: 30-60 minutes
Texas Brisket Chili with Coffee Rub
This chili recipe combines the rich flavors of Texas-style brisket with a bold coffee rub, creating a complex and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With its deep flavor profile and tender texture, this chili is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp coffee rub (see below)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Rub brisket pieces with coffee rub; let sit for 30 minutes.
3. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook onion, garlic, and bell pepper over medium-high heat until browned.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, and coffee-rubbed brisket.
6. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until brisket is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Texas Wild Game Chili with Jalapeños
A hearty and bold chili recipe that combines the rich flavors of wild game with a spicy kick from jalapeños. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a unique twist on traditional chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground venison (or substitute with beef, turkey, or bison)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh jalapeños
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground venison in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, jalapeños, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the meat is fully browned.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, tomato paste, beef broth, and diced tomatoes.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Texas Three-Bean Vegetarian Chili
A hearty, flavorful vegetarian chili that’s perfect for a chilly Texas evening (or any time of the year)! This recipe combines three types of beans with aromatic spices and rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cooked pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook 1 minute.
4. Add beans, diced tomatoes, and red kidney beans; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until flavors meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Texas Chili with Homemade Corn Tortillas
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender beef and rich spices with the crunch of freshly made corn tortillas. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
For the chili:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the corn tortillas:
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. To make the corn tortillas:
– In a large bowl, combine the masa harina, warm water, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
– Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces; shape each piece into a ball.
– Use a rolling pin to flatten each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Cook the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side, or until slightly puffed and pliable.
Cooking Time:
Chili: 30 minutes
Tortillas: 10-15 minutes
Texas Chili with Cheddar and Green Onions
This recipe combines the rich flavors of beef chili with the creaminess of cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh green onions. It’s a perfect comfort food for a cold day or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Texas Chili with Smoked Sausage and Bacon
Get ready for a hearty, flavorful chili that combines the richness of smoked sausage and crispy bacon with the warmth of Texas spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup diced smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa)
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy, then remove with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the smoked sausage, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Texas Chili with Sweet Potatoes and Black Beans
This recipe combines the rich flavors of beef chili with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the nutty taste of black beans, creating a deliciously complex dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Texas Chili with Hatch Green Chiles
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Texas-style chili, elevated by the smoky sweetness of Hatch green chiles. This recipe combines tender beef, rich tomatoes, and spices for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 Hatch green chiles, roasted and chopped
– Optional: jalapeños or other hot peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until the mixture is translucent.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in roasted Hatch green chiles and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
Texas Chili with Beer and Bourbon
Get ready for a bold and rich chili experience that combines the flavors of Texas with a hint of sophistication from beer and bourbon. This recipe is perfect for cold winter nights or any time you crave a comforting, full-bodied meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup beer (any type)
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, beef broth, beer, and bourbon. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped onions, shredded cheese, or sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Texas Chili with Ancho and Pasilla Peppers
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Texas chili with the deep, slightly sweet heat of Ancho and Pasilla peppers. Perfect for a cozy evening or a tailgating party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 Ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 2 Pasilla chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes
– 14.5 oz beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onions and garlic to the pot and cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the Ancho and Pasilla peppers, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for at least 2 hours, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Texas Chili with Cinnamon and Cloves
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Texas chili with a warm hint of cinnamon and cloves, creating a unique and delicious twist on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until flavors have melded together and thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouth-watering Texas chili recipes! From classic beef chili with beans to smoky chipotle and spicy venison, there’s something for every palate. Discover hearty vegetarian options like three-bean chili, or try unique twists like white chicken chili or chili con carne with cocoa powder. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of goodness or an adventurous flavor combination, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
