American Cantina Chili Recipe

This American Cantina Chili recipe delivers a bold and flavorful twist on a classic! Forget bland chili – this recipe features juicy ground beef, vibrant jalapenos, and a rich blend of spices. Easily customizable to your spice preference, it's perfect for a cozy night in or a lively gathering. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers for the ultimate cantina experience!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 709.8 kcal
Protein 110g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
American Cantina Chili 101

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for American Cantina Chili

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 ounces beer
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2-3 jalapenos, sliced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 beef bouillon cubes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • tortilla chips, for serving
  • shredded cheese, for serving
  • sour cream, for serving
  • crackers, for serving
  • hot sauce, for serving

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How to Make American Cantina Chili

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, 1 medium onion (chopped), and 2 cloves garlic (minced). Brown the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
  2. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Stir in 12 ounces of beer, 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes, 2-3 jalapenos (sliced – adjust to your spice preference), 1 (15 ounce) can of tomato sauce, 2 beef bouillon cubes, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon ground cumin.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Stir in 2 tablespoons chili powder and 1 (15 ounce) can of kidney beans (drained and rinsed). Continue to cook over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the beans are heated through and the chili has thickened slightly.
  6. Serve hot! Garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or extra jalapenos. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers and hot sauce on the side, if desired.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

136 g

Sugar

78g

Fat

43g

Carbs

18g