There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of chili with stew meat, isn’t there? The aroma wafting through the kitchen can turn an ordinary day into a cozy, soul-warming experience. Picture this: tender chunks of beef swimming in a rich, savory sauce, mingling with plump beans and vibrant peppers. hamburger potato casserole It’s like a big hug for your taste buds, perfect for those chilly nights when you want to snuggle up with a bowlful of comfort.
Now, let me take you back to that one memorable game night when I first served this chili with stew meat. My friends and I gathered around the TV, ready to cheer on our favorite team, but little did we know that the real MVP would be my chili! As soon as the first spoonful hit their lips, there were smiles all around and even a few happy dances. Let’s just say, it became an instant classic among my crew! For more inspiration, check out this Ultimate Pumpkin Cake recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chili with stew meat is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- Its deep flavors create a delightful experience that warms you from head to toe
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, cornbread, or just on its own!
I remember my Aunt Becky declaring it “the best chili ever” during one potluck. Her enthusiastic thumbs up still echoes in my kitchen each time I whip up this delightful dish.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Stew Meat: Choose well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness; it breaks down beautifully while cooking. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Key Lime Pie Lush Recipe recipe.
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes; they provide a great base and enhance the chili’s texture.
Kidney Beans: These add heartiness; rinsing them helps reduce sodium content.
Onion: A sweet yellow onion works wonders in adding flavor; cook until translucent for best results. flavor explosion chicken recipe French onion pot roast.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors for visual appeal; they add sweetness and crunch.
Chili Powder: This is essential for that smoky flavor; adjust according to your heat preference.
Cumin: A pinch adds depth; don’t skip it unless you want bland chili!
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the taste profile; always chop them finely before adding.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enriching the chili’s flavor.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables; choose extra virgin for better flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. pickled salad recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics : Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes will do.
Add the Garlic : Toss in minced garlic next. Stir continuously until you smell that heavenly aroma—don’t let it burn! It should take about 30 seconds.
Brown the Stew Meat : Increase the heat to medium-high and add your seasoned stew meat. Sear until browned all over—this step locks in those juiciness and flavors.
Mix in Tomatoes and Spices : Pour in canned tomatoes along with chili powder and cumin. Stir well to combine everything into one happy family of flavors.
Add Broth & Beans : Pour in beef broth and add rinsed kidney beans. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low—it should simmer happily for about an hour.
Final Touches : Taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning if necessary; sometimes a little more salt or pepper does wonders. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese or sour cream!
Now that you’ve created your own bowl of comfort, get ready for some serious compliments from family or friends!
You Must Know
- Chili with stew meat is a hearty dish that warms the soul
- The rich aroma of spices combined with tender meat creates an irresistible meal
- This chili is perfect for cozy nights and can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing your stew meat to lock in flavors, then sauté onions and garlic before adding spices and tomatoes. This sequence ensures that every ingredient contributes to the rich flavor profile of your chili.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap kidney beans for black beans or add corn for sweetness. Experimenting with different chili powders or fresh herbs can elevate your dish’s personality, making it truly yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm on the stovetop, stirring until hot throughout.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go; chili is a canvas for your palate!
- Don’t skip the searing step; it adds depth of flavor
- Letting the chili rest enhances its taste, making it even better the next day
Cooking this dish always reminds me of my uncle’s legendary cook-off at family gatherings. I once entered his kitchen only to find him stirring a bubbling pot of his famous chili while wearing a ridiculously oversized chef’s hat. He claimed it was his “secret weapon.”
FAQ
How long should I cook the stew meat for optimal tenderness?
Cook stew meat on low heat for at least two hours for maximum tenderness.
Can I freeze leftovers of chili with stew meat?
Yes, store leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
What are some good toppings for chili?
Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, and sliced jalapeños.

Chili with Stew Meat
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Chili with stew meat is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights and hearty gatherings. Imagine succulent chunks of tender beef simmered in a rich, savory sauce, combined with plump kidney beans and colorful bell peppers. This easy-to-make chili not only warms your body but also brings everyone together for moments of joy and laughter. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with cornbread, this dish promises to become a favorite among family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb well-marbled beef chuck (stew meat)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mix of colors)
- 2 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions and bell peppers for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add seasoned stew meat, browning on all sides.
- Stir in canned tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin; mix well.
- Pour in beef broth and add rinsed kidney beans. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, let chili rest overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Feel free to swap kidney beans for black beans or add corn for sweetness. Experiment with different chili powders or fresh herbs to make it uniquely yours.