Mild chilli con carne

Mild chilli con carne is a comforting dish that balances flavourful ground beef, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato base, making it suitable for those who prefer milder heat. This easy, simmered recipe is perfect for gatherings or meal prep.

06 Dec 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
20 oz ground beef (80/20%)
2 tbsp spice mix
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1 can canned tomatoes
1/2 cup beef broth

Mild chilli con carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice without overwhelming heat. This recipe features ground beef, a delicious blend of spices, and a rich tomato base that makes it a crowd-pleaser. It's an ideal meal for family gatherings, casual dinners, or meal prep.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.

2. Heat Oil:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

3. Cook Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Brown the Beef:
- Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the pot.
- Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned all over and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.

5. Add Spices:
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of spice mix and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.

6. Thicken the Mixture:
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour over the beef mixture.
- Stir well to combine, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.

7. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour in the canned tomatoes (including the juices) and the beef broth.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

8. Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Let it simmer, uncovered, for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili has thickened to your desired consistency.

9. Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.

Chilli con carne is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be served with a variety of sides such as rice, bread, or tortilla chips. By following this recipe and the provided tips, you can enjoy a delicious, mildly spiced chilli that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Mild chilli con carne FAQ:

What is the cooking time for the mild chili con carne?

The cooking time for mild chili con carne is about 20-30 minutes of simmering after the ingredients are combined. Additionally, you should account for about 20 minutes to prepare and cook the onion and garlic, and brown the beef.

How do I know when the chili con carne is done?

The chili con carne is done when it has thickened to your desired consistency and the flavors have melded together. You can taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. It should be hot and the meat fully cooked.

Can I make substitutions for the ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with other meats like ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or a meat substitute, but adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper doneness.

How should I store leftovers of mild chili con carne?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What spices are typically included in a chili spice mix?

A typical chili spice mix may include ingredients like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. If you want to keep it mild, make sure your mix doesn’t contain hot peppers.

Tips:

- Be sure to finely chop the onions and garlic to ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.

- Brown the ground beef properly to develop depth of flavor; this might take about 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat.

- When adding the spice mix and oregano, make sure to stir well to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the meat.

- Allow the chilli to simmer on low heat for at least 20-30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and create a richer taste.

- If the chilli is too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth until you reach your desired consistency.

- For a slightly different texture and an extra nutritional boost, consider adding a can of kidney beans or black beans.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 210kcal
Protein 13g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 1.67g
Sugar 2.48g
Fat 16g

Mild chilli con carne