Chunky Beef Chilli Recipe That’s Easy and Delicious

Updated On: October 17, 2025

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out, this chunky beef chilli recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for cozy evenings or casual get-togethers, this chilli combines tender chunks of beef with a rich tomato base, bold spices, and a medley of beans and vegetables.

The texture is wonderfully chunky, making each bite satisfying and full of robust flavors. Whether you’re a chilli aficionado or trying it for the first time, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and sure to become a family favorite.

Not only is this chilli packed with protein and fiber, but it also offers a balanced heat level that can be adjusted to your taste. Serve it with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Ready your slow cooker or stovetop, and let’s dive into creating a bowl of chunky, spicy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chunky beef chilli stands out because of its rich, meaty texture and perfectly balanced spices. Unlike smooth or pureed chilli, the chunky style means you get generous pieces of tender beef and beans in every spoonful.

It’s incredibly versatile — perfect as a main dish, a party dip, or even a filling for tacos and baked potatoes.

The recipe uses common pantry staples but elevates them with fresh aromatics and slow simmering, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your preferred level of heat or additional veggies.

Whether you’re new to making chilli or a seasoned pro, this dish is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs (700g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 oz/400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz/400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Can opener
  • Serving bowls
  • Ladle

Instructions

  1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Sear the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown the beef on all sides until a deep crust forms, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set aside.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and diced bell peppers, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant and tender.
  4. Add the tomato paste and spices: Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to toast the spices and deepen their flavors.
  5. Deglaze and simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot — these add tremendous flavor.
  6. Return beef to the pot: Add the seared beef chunks back in. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover partially with a lid. Let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens.
  7. Add the beans: Stir in the drained kidney beans and black beans. Simmer uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes to heat through and let the flavors meld.
  8. Final seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra chili powder if desired.
  9. Serve and garnish: Ladle the chunky beef chilli into bowls. Top with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if you like.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, brown your beef well and don’t rush the simmering process — slow cooking allows the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.

  • Spice level: Adjust the chili powder and cayenne to suit your heat preference. For milder chilli, reduce or omit the cayenne.
  • Vegetarian option: Replace beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and add an extra can of beans or lentils for protein.
  • Slow cooker: After browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
  • Add corn: Stir in a cup of frozen or canned corn in the last 10 minutes for a sweet crunch.
  • Smoky flavor: Use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy twist.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 cup)
Calories 320
Protein 28g
Carbohydrates 24g
Fiber 8g
Fat 12g
Saturated Fat 4g
Sodium 520mg
Vitamin A 25% DV
Vitamin C 30% DV
Iron 20% DV

Serving Suggestions

This chunky beef chilli pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings. Serve it with fluffy white rice, warm cornbread, or crispy tortilla chips for a complete meal.

A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or a spoonful of guacamole adds richness and creaminess.

For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of steamed cauliflower rice or mixed greens. Leftovers make excellent fillings for burritos or a topping for baked potatoes.

Don’t forget to offer extra sour cream, chopped onions, and fresh lime wedges at the table to let everyone customize their bowls.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect chunky beef chilli is a rewarding experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. This recipe balances tender beef chunks with bold spices and a hearty mix of beans and vegetables, making it a satisfying dish that pleases any crowd.

Its versatility means it can be adapted for milder or spicier palates and served with an array of sides to suit your mood.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this chilli recipe is sure to impress. The slow simmering process enhances the depth of flavors, ensuring that every bite is rich, comforting, and delicious.

Dive into a bowl today and enjoy the taste of home-cooked goodness!

📖 Recipe Card: Chunky Beef Chilli

Description: A hearty and flavorful chunky beef chilli packed with spices and beans. Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 500g lean beef chuck, diced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 400g canned chopped tomatoes
  • 400g canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 200ml beef stock

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced beef and brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and oregano; cook for 1 minute.
  5. Return beef to the pot and add chopped tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef stock.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, then bring to a boil.
  7. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 30 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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