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The Chipotle Steak Chili Recipe is a hearty, smoky, and deeply satisfying dish that brings together tender chunks of steak with the rich, smoky heat of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This chili is a vibrant, comforting bowl of bold flavors and textures, perfect for cozy nights or sharing with friends and family. Whether it’s your first time making chili or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Chipotle Steak Chili Recipe. Each component plays an essential role, from the tender steak that adds meaty richness to the chipotle peppers that bring a smoky kick, and the beans and tomatoes that provide heartiness, color, and texture.
- Boneless beef shoulder top blade (flat iron steak): Offers tender, flavorful chunks of steak for a satisfying bite.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the meat’s natural flavors.
- Oil: Necessary for browning the steak and sautéing vegetables, adding depth to the flavor.
- Chopped onion: Adds sweetness and body while building the chili’s aromatic base.
- Chopped green sweet pepper: Provides mild, fresh flavor and a bit of crunch.
- Minced garlic: Brings warmth and a subtle pungency that rounds out the dish.
- Chili powder: Delivers classic chili spice to balance the smoky chipotle.
- Dried basil: A surprising herbaceous note that lifts the overall flavor.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild heat to the mix.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: The star ingredient giving the chili its signature smoky, slightly spicy kick.
- Kidney beans (or pinto/black beans): Provide creamy texture and bulk, making each spoonful satisfying.
- Diced tomatoes (undrained): Bring acidity, sweetness, and vibrant color to the chili base.
- Tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich backdrop that ties all the flavors together.
- Water: Helps control the chili’s consistency while simmering.
- Sour cream: Perfect for topping, adding creamy tang that balances the bold spices.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a melty, savory finishing touch.
How to Make Chipotle Steak Chili Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Steak
Start by trimming any excess fat off the steak using a serrated knife, then chop it into bite-sized pieces roughly 3/4 inch wide. Give the chunks a quick pat with a paper towel—not too much fuss—and generously season them with salt and pepper. This simple prep sets the stage for juicy, flavorful meat bites.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Heat about one tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat in a large stock pot or Dutch oven. Add a portion of the steak pieces to avoid crowding the pan, then cook until all sides are beautifully browned. Removing the meat with a slotted spoon to a plate, repeat with the remaining steak pieces, adding more oil if necessary. This caramelization develops that deep, savory flavor you want in your chili.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables and Build Flavors
In the same pot with the flavorful meat drippings, toss in the chopped onions, green sweet pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté them until tender and fragrant, about five to eight minutes. Drain off excess fat, then sprinkle in the chili powder, dried basil, and black pepper, allowing the spices to bloom. Return the browned steak to the pot and stir in the chopped chipotle peppers in their adobo sauce, which are going to give this chili its unforgettable smoky heat.
Step 4: Simmer Your Chili to Perfection
Next, add your drained beans along with the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and half a cup of water. Bring the pot to a boil before lowering the heat to medium low, then cover and let it simmer for an hour. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the steak to become tender. This slow simmer is where all the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a soul-warming masterpiece.
How to Serve Chipotle Steak Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Once served in bowls, dollops of cool, creamy sour cream bring balance to the smoky and spicy notes, while a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese melts into the chili’s warmth to add luscious richness and just the right amount of gooey indulgence. Feel free to add fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a fresh, zesty touch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs beautifully with a variety of sides — think warm, crusty bread or fluffy cornbread for soaking up every last drop, or a simple green salad to add a crisp contrast to the chili’s boldness. For extra comfort, steamed rice or classic tortilla chips work wonderfully, providing texture and a neutral base to showcase the chili.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve the Chipotle Steak Chili Recipe in small cast-iron skillets or mini terracotta bowls for an authentic feel. Top with creative additions like sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors. You can even turn it into a hearty chili bar where everyone assembles their bowl with their favorite garnishes and sides.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili tastes even better the next day once all the flavors have fully melded. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. When you reheat, you will find the tender steak absorbs even more of the smoky, spicy goodness.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Chipotle Steak Chili Recipe on hand for busy nights, it freezes beautifully. Cool the chili completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be kept frozen for up to three months without losing its flavor or texture. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat chili on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help if the chili has thickened too much. For quick reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in one-minute intervals, stirring in between, to preserve texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flat iron steak is tender and flavorful, you can substitute with sirloin, ribeye, or even chuck steak, just be mindful that tougher cuts may require longer simmering to become tender.
How spicy is the chipotle pepper in this chili?
The chipotle peppers add a moderate smoky heat that builds gradually but is not overpowering. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference to make it milder or more fiery.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the meat and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the steak is tender and flavors meld beautifully.
Are there vegetarian alternatives for Chipotle Steak Chili Recipe?
For a vegetarian twist, skip the steak and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant along with extra beans. You can keep the chipotle and spices for that signature smoky flavor.
What can I serve instead of sour cream and cheddar cheese?
If you want a lighter or dairy-free topping, try avocado slices, vegan sour cream, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor without dairy.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this amazing Chipotle Steak Chili Recipe in your back pocket, I encourage you to dive in and make it your own. It’s a dish that delivers warmth, flavor, and lots of smiles around the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy night in, this chili will become a beloved favorite. Trust me, once you’ve tasted it, you’ll be hooked!
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Chipotle Steak Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This hearty Chipotle Chili with Steak is a flavorful twist on classic chili, featuring tender flat iron steak simmered with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, kidney beans, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it combines smoky heat with rich tomato flavors and is deliciously topped with sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 & 1/2 pounds boneless beef shoulder top blade (flat iron steak)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1–2 tablespoons oil
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 cups chopped onion (2 large)
- 1 cup chopped green sweet pepper (1 large)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2–3 teaspoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (chopped)
Canned Goods
- 2 15-oz cans kidney beans (pinto beans and/or black beans, drained and rinsed)
- 2 14.5-oz cans diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 15-oz can tomato sauce
Liquids
- 1/2 cup water
Toppings
- Sour cream
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Use a serrated knife to trim any fat from the flat iron steak. Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces about 3/4 inch each. Pat the pieces dry lightly with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Brown the Meat: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat in a large stock pot or Dutch oven. Add half (or a third, if your pot narrows at the bottom) of the steak pieces and brown on all sides. Once browned, remove the meat with a slotted spoon to a plate. Repeat with remaining meat, adding oil as needed.
- Cook Vegetables and Spices: In the same pot with the meat drippings, add chopped onions, green sweet peppers, and minced garlic. Cook until tender, about 5 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat from the pot. Then add chili powder, dried basil, and black pepper. Return browned meat to the pot and stir in the chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
- Add Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans, undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and 1/2 cup water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Chili: Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and flavors have melded.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use pinto or black beans in addition to or as a substitute for kidney beans for varied texture and flavor.
- Adjust chipotle peppers in adobo based on your desired heat level.
- For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to reduce liquid.
- Flat iron steak works well because it becomes tender with slow simmering.
- This chili can be made a day ahead; flavors improve after resting overnight.
- Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
