easy chili colorado recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best easy chili colorado recipe

I have always been a fan of hearty, comforting dishes that warm the soul and satisfy my family’s cravings. One of my go-to recipes for this is chili con carne, specifically the Colorado-style version that has become a staple in our household. This recipe has its roots in the American Southwest, where it was first created by cowboys and ranchers who needed a filling, flavorful meal after long days of work.

The dish has since evolved over time, but its core elements remain the same: tender beef, rich tomatoes, and a blend of spices that add depth and warmth to every bite. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy this recipe is to make – it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, from chopping onions to browning the ground beef.

And when it’s all done, we sit down together as a family to enjoy this delicious meal. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also packed with nutrients like protein and fiber that keep us full and energized throughout the day. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is.

We can serve it with rice, noodles, or even just plain old-fashioned bread – whatever we have on hand or prefer at the moment. And because it makes such a big batch, we can easily freeze leftovers for later use or share some with friends and neighbors who are going through tough times. That’s what I love most about this recipe: it brings people together!

The Colorado-style chili con carne has become an integral part of our family traditions. Whenever we get together with extended family or close friends, this dish is always on the menu. It never fails to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying portions – everyone leaves feeling happy and full!

As a mom who values cooking from scratch and feeding my loved ones wholesome meals, I can confidently say that this recipe has earned its place in our hearts (and stomachs!)

Easy Chili Colorado

4.7 from 1428 votes

A simplified version of the classic Mexican dish featuring tender beef simmered in a rich, smoky red chili sauce. This one-pot meal delivers deep flavor with minimal effort, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chili

1 1/2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
3 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving (optional)

Warm flour tortillas
Chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the dried guajillo chiles in a small bowl and cover with hot water.
2Let them soak for 15 minutes until softened.
3Drain the chiles and transfer them to a blender along with 1/2 cup of fresh water.
4Blend until smooth, then set the chile puree aside.
5Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
6Add the beef cubes in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
7Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set aside.
8Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the pot.
9Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is translucent.
10Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
11Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
12Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps, then add the tomato sauce, chile puree, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
13Stir well to combine.
14Return the browned beef to the pot and bring the liquid to a gentle boil.
15Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
16The meat should shred easily with a fork when done.
17Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
18Serve hot with warm tortillas, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Blender or food processor

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 90mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a spicier chili, add one dried arbol chile to the soaking chiles. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Easy Chili Colorado Works

This easy chili con carne recipe is always a hit with my family – whether we’re serving it as a main course or using leftovers for lunches throughout the week. One thing I love about this dish is how well it stores: you can refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for months without losing any flavor.

When reheating, be sure to heat slowly over low heat so that all flavors meld together beautifully again! Serve hot over rice noodles or crusty bread slices – whichever way you prefer!

This hearty dish never fails to satisfy our cravings.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chili Colorado

Q1: What is the difference between Colorado-style chili con carne and other types of chili?

This type of chili con carne is characterized by its thick consistency and deep red color, which comes from using a combination of ground beef and pork as well as a generous amount of tomatoes.

Q2: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! This dish freezes beautifully – simply transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q3: What kind of meat should I use for this recipe?

You can use either ground beef or ground turkey for this recipe – both options will yield delicious results!

Q4: How do I thicken up my chili if it becomes too watery?

To thicken your chili, try adding some cornstarch mixed with water or broth – stir constantly until desired consistency is reached.

Q5: Can I customize this recipe with my own favorite spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your own blend of spices or herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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