If you’re craving a rich, hearty meal, this steak chili recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender chunks of steak, bold spices, and deep flavors, it’s the perfect dish for cozy weeknights, meal prep, or even game day gatherings.
And don’t worry, even though it’s steak chili, it’s not complicated. It’s still a one-pot wonder that lets you set it and forget it (well, mostly). By the time you’re done, you’ll have a pot of chili that tastes like it’s been simmering all day, even if you didn’t start cooking until mid-afternoon. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Steak Chili Recipe
- Tender Steak Chunks: Unlike ground beef, steak adds a luxurious, meaty texture that feels like a treat in every bite.
- Rich, Deep Flavors: This chili is packed with smoky spices, savory beef broth, and a secret ingredient (spoiler: it’s chocolate) that takes it to the next level.
- Versatile and Customizable: This recipe fits the bill, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week.
- Perfect for Freezing: Got leftovers? This chili freezes like a dream, making it ideal for lazy nights when you don’t like cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a pot of this epic steak chili:
For the Chili:
- 2 lbs of steak (more on this in the FAQ section below!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green works fine)
- 1 jalapeño, diced (optional, if you like a little heat)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional for the purists out there)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder or one small square of dark chocolate (trust me on this—it’s the secret ingredient!)
For Toppings (Optional, But Highly Recommended):
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Tortilla chips or cornbread on the side
Step-by-Step: How to Make the Best Steak Chili
- Choose and Prep Your Steak
Start by picking your steak (more details in the FAQ below, but chuck roast, sirloin, or stew meat are all great options). Trim off any excess fat and cut the steak into bite-sized cubes. You’re going for tender, meaty chunks, so don’t skimp on quality.
- Sear the Steak
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the steak pieces in batches until they’re browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pot—this step is all about building flavor. Remove the steak from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the Veggies
In the same pot (don’t wipe it out—you want all those browned bits), add the diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Then, add the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the veggies are coated in all that smoky, spicy goodness.
- Add the Liquids
Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any stuck-on bits. Add the seared steak and the beans (if using) back to the pot.
- Simmer to Perfection
Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If you’ve got the time, let it go for 2-3 hours—the longer, the better.
- Add the Secret Ingredient
Stir in the cocoa powder or dark chocolate about 15 minutes before the chili is done. It won’t make your chili taste like dessert, but it will add a rich depth that takes it over the top.
- Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls and pile on your favorite toppings. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips on the side, and watch it disappear.
Why Steak Chili is Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best things about a steak chili recipe is how well it works for meal prep. Since it tastes even better the next day, you can make a big pot on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. Store it in individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches or quick weeknight dinners. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stove, making it a stress-free option for those busy days when cooking feels like too much work. Bonus: It freezes like a dream, so you can stash some away for when you’re craving that rich, hearty flavor without lifting a finger.
Pair Chicken Parmesan with Alfredo Sauce with Stouffer’s Mac and Cheese Family Size for a rich, cheesy, and comforting dinner!
FAQs About Steak Chili
What kind of steak is best for chili?
The best steak for chili is flavorful and holds up well during prolonged cooking. Chuck roast is a top choice because it’s well-marbled and becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after simmering. Sirloin is another excellent option if you want a leaner cut. Stew meat also works in a pinch, but make sure it’s high-quality for the best results.
What secret ingredient will deepen the flavor of your chili?
A taste of chocolate is the secret ingredient to a truly rich and flavorful chili! A teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder or a square of dark chocolate enhances the smoky, savory flavors without making the chili taste sweet. It’s a small addition that makes a huge difference—trust me, it’s worth it.
How is Texas chili different?
Texas chili, or “chili con carne,” is about the meat. Unlike traditional chili, it skips the beans entirely (don’t even bring them up to a Texan!) and focuses on tender chunks of beef, a rich, spicy sauce, and bold seasonings. It’s pure, meaty perfection and often uses dried chili peppers for an extra layer of flavor.
What meat goes best in chili?
Beef is the classic choice, but steak takes it up a notch. Aside from steak, you can also use ground beef, ground turkey, or even pork shoulder. Each meat has flavor and texture, so it depends on your preference. If you want to mix things up, try a combination of steak and ground beef for the best of both worlds.
Why You Should Try Steak Chili Tonight
There’s something about steak chili that feels a little extra special. It’s still a comforting, down-to-earth dish, but adding steak gives it a heartiness and depth that sets it apart from traditional chili. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that tastes even better the next day, so go ahead and make a big batch—you’ll thank yourself later.
This steak chili is perfect for tailgates, family dinners, or cozy nights when you want to curl up with a big bowl of something warm and satisfying. And don’t forget to load up on the toppings—because we all know that’s half the fun.
Topping Ideas to Make Your Chili Pop
Don’t skimp on the toppings if you want to take your steak chili to the next level! Here are some favorites:
- Sour Cream: Adds an incredible, creamy contrast to the heat.
- Shredded Cheese: Because chili without cheese feels wrong.
- Avocado: A fresh, buttery addition that balances the bold flavors.
- Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping and adding a little crunch.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For those who like it spicy.
- Fresh Cilantro: A pop of color and flavor to finish things off.
Final Thoughts
Steak chili is everything you want in a chili—hearty, flavorful, and packed with tender chunks of steak that melt in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether you’re serving it at a potluck, a game-day party, or just for your family on a weeknight.
With its bold flavors, easy prep, and versatility, this recipe will become your kitchen go-to. So, grab your ingredients, clear your afternoon, and get ready to make a pot of steak chili that’s guaranteed to impress. And don’t forget to share it with someone you love—because chili always tastes better when it’s shared.
