Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Bowl of hearty steak chili topped with sour cream and cilantro, with visible kidney beans, ground steak, and bell peppers.

Hearty Steak Chili: A Bold, Meaty Twist on a Classic Cold-Weather Favorite

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This inviting image showcases a bowl of thick, hearty steak chili brimming with chunks of tender steak, red kidney beans, bell peppers, and a rich, seasoned tomato base. Topped with a generous dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro, the dish radiates homestyle comfort and bold Tex-Mex flavor. Perfect for cozy nights, game day, or meal prepping in bulk.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • 2 pounds chuck steak or sirloin, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Vegetables

  • 1 large yellow onion, diced

  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped

  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)

Spices

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder

  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Liquids and Base

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes

  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (secret ingredient!)

Beans (Optional)

  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (to balance acidity)

  • 1 small chipotle in adobo, minced for smoky heat

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Steak

  • Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

  • Season steak cubes with salt and pepper.

  • Brown the beef in batches, turning to sear all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pot.

  • Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

  • In the same pot, add a splash of oil if needed.

  • Add onions, bell peppers, garlic, and jalapeño.

  • Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

  • Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen flavor.

  • Add all spices (chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, pepper).

  • Toast the spices for 1 minute.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Tomatoes

  • Return steak to the pot.

  • Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire, and cocoa powder.

  • Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer Low and Slow

  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

  • Cover and simmer for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Uncover and simmer another 30 minutes to thicken.

Step 6: Add Beans (Optional)

  • Stir in drained beans during the last 20 minutes of cooking.

  • Simmer gently until heated through.

Step 7: Adjust and Serve

 

  • Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt, sugar, or spice if needed.

  • Ladle into bowls and load up on toppings.

  • Author: Joana

Find it online: https://lumrecipes.com/2025/05/06/hearty-steak-chili/