When I first made Cowboy Chili, I was trying to recreate that warm, hearty flavor I remembered from campfire meals on cool evenings. The smell of simmering beef, garlic, and spices filled my kitchen and brought back those cozy outdoor memories. It’s a simple recipe, yet the rich, bold taste makes it feel like something special. I love how it comes together so easily, and every spoonful has that deep, comforting warmth that keeps you coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cowboy Chili is the kind of meal that never disappoints. It’s packed with savory flavors, filling ingredients, and just the right touch of spice. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or cooking a big pot for friends, this recipe always impresses. It’s wholesome, hearty, and full of character—just like the name suggests.
Versatile
One of the best parts about Cowboy Chili is its flexibility. You can make it milder by reducing the cayenne pepper, or turn up the heat if you love spice. It pairs beautifully with rice, cornbread, or even baked potatoes. You can also add toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions to personalize it.
Budget-Friendly
This recipe is proof that great flavor doesn’t require expensive ingredients. Ground beef, canned tomatoes, and beans are affordable staples that create a satisfying and filling meal. You can easily double the batch for meal prep or freeze leftovers for another day. It’s perfect for families or anyone who loves to stretch their grocery budget without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients for Cowboy Chili
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need:
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3/4 pound extra lean ground beef
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 medium yellow onion, chopped
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1 (15-ounce) can chopped stewed tomatoes
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1 cup beef broth
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2 tablespoons chili powder
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
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1/2 teaspoon salt
Each ingredient plays its part in creating that robust, layered flavor Cowboy Chili is known for. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and oregano adds warmth and depth, while the beef and beans give it heartiness. It’s the perfect balance between spice and comfort, making it a go-to recipe for any day of the week.
How to Make Cowboy Chili
When I prepare Cowboy Chili, I like to take my time with each step to build flavor. It starts with browning the beef perfectly before layering in the spices and broth. The slow simmering brings everything together, turning simple ingredients into something truly comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making
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Cook the Beef and Aromatics
Begin by heating a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the extra lean ground beef along with the minced garlic and chopped yellow onion. Stir frequently for about 10 minutes, or until the beef turns brown and the onions become tender. Spoon out and discard the excess liquid to prevent the chili from being greasy. -
Add the Base Ingredients
Once the beef mixture is ready, stir in the chopped stewed tomatoes and beef broth. These will form the rich base of the chili. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper next. Stir well so the spices evenly coat the beef and vegetables, enhancing every bite with a deep, smoky flavor. -
Simmer Slowly
Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let the mixture simmer for about one hour. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom and to help the flavors blend. This slow simmering step is what gives Cowboy Chili its full, hearty character. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it becomes. -
Finish and Serve
After one hour, add the rinsed and drained pinto beans. Sprinkle in the salt, and stir everything together. Allow it to simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes to thicken slightly. Once done, ladle the chili into bowls and serve warm.
Quick and Easy
Even though Cowboy Chili tastes like it’s been cooking all day, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a home-cooked meal that feels like comfort in a bowl.
Customizable
You can easily adjust this recipe to match your taste. Add more cayenne pepper for heat, include bell peppers for extra texture, or stir in corn for a touch of sweetness. You can even swap beef for ground chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter version.
Crowd-Pleasing
Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a game-day favorite, Cowboy Chili always brings smiles. It’s a dish that satisfies everyone—kids love the mild, meaty flavor, and adults enjoy the spice and depth. It’s the perfect one-pot recipe for feeding a crowd without stress.
FAQs
Can I make Cowboy Chili ahead of time?
Yes, Cowboy Chili actually tastes better the next day. The flavors deepen as it sits, so you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat before serving.
Can I freeze Cowboy Chili?
Absolutely. Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove.
How can I make this recipe spicier or milder?
To make it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder or cayenne pepper slightly. The great thing about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt to your taste.
Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, you can substitute pinto beans with kidney beans, black beans, or even chickpeas. Each variety brings a slightly different texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment.
What can I serve with Cowboy Chili?
It’s delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with rice, cornbread, or a baked potato. For toppings, try shredded cheese, a spoon of sour cream, or freshly chopped green onions.
Is Cowboy Chili healthy?
Yes. It’s made with lean ground beef and beans, which are high in protein and fiber. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutrition.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Brown the beef, onion, and garlic in a pan first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for about 3 hours.
How can I thicken the chili if it’s too thin?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. The liquid will reduce naturally. Alternatively, you can mash a few beans with a fork and stir them in to thicken the texture.
Cowboy Chili
Cowboy Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish made with lean ground beef, beans, and bold spices. It’s perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings. The slow simmering allows the flavors to blend beautifully, creating a rich, comforting meal that everyone enjoys.
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
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3/4 pound extra lean ground beef
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 medium yellow onion, chopped
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1 (15-ounce) can chopped stewed tomatoes
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1 cup beef broth
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2 tablespoons chili powder
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
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1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
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In a large saucepan, cook the ground beef, minced garlic, and chopped onion over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the beef is browned and the onions soften. Spoon out the excess liquid.
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Stir in the chopped stewed tomatoes and beef broth. Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors.
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Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for one hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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After an hour, add the pinto beans and salt. Stir thoroughly, and let the chili simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes to thicken.
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Serve hot in bowls with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese or green onions.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can add diced bell peppers or corn. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper. For a lighter version, substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes