Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, bold, and deeply satisfying meal, look no further than this Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe. It’s a vibrant blend of tender ground beef, spicy seasonings, and rich tomato goodness that comes together in a way that makes your taste buds dance. This recipe perfectly balances heat and flavor, making it an all-time favorite whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd at a casual gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple yet crucial ingredients that create the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and vibrant color in your chili. Each element plays an important role, from the aromatic garlic to the smoky paprika, binding together to elevate every spoonful.

• Olive oil: Helps to sauté the veggies and adds a subtle fruity undertone.
• Garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fresh and pungent aroma that awakens the palate.
• Onion, diced: Adds sweetness and texture to deepen the chili’s base.
• Red bell pepper, diced: Brings a touch of natural sweetness and color contrast.
• Ground beef (500g): The hearty protein that makes this chili truly filling.
• Tomato paste (3 tbsp): Concentrates tomato flavors while enhancing richness.
• Crushed tomatoes (800g): The juicy foundation that creates the chili’s luscious sauce.
• Red kidney beans (420g), drained: Adds heartiness and a creamy bite.
• Beef bouillon cubes (2), crumbled: Intensifies the meaty depth.
• Sugar (1½ tsp): Balances acidity from the tomatoes with a subtle hint of sweetness.
• Water (½ to 1½ cups): Adjusts consistency perfectly, ensuring it’s not too thick or runny.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to highlight all flavors.
• Cayenne pepper (1–2 tsp): Adds the signature chili heat—adjust based on your spice love.
• Paprika (4 tsp): Brings smoky notes and a lovely reddish tint.
• Cumin (5 tsp): Contributes an earthy warmth quintessential to chili con carne.
• Garlic powder (2 tsp): Amplifies the garlic essence without overpowering.
• Onion powder (2 tsp): Deepens the savory undertones.
• Dried oregano (2 tsp): Adds a herbal touch that rounds out the spices.
• Sour cream: Creamy coolness for topping that tames the heat.
• Grated cheese: Melts on top for extra indulgence and texture.
• Chopped coriander/cilantro: Offers a fresh, zesty finish.
• Corn chips, tortillas, or rice: Perfect accompaniments to soak up all that delicious chili sauce.

How to Make Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, diced onion, and red bell pepper. Sauté them gently until they become tender and fragrant—this is where the foundational flavors begin to build. Pay attention to the onions turning translucent and the garlic releasing its inviting aroma; this step sets the stage for everything that follows.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to your sautéed mixture. Break it up with your spoon and stir well, browning the meat evenly. This browning process is crucial as it locks in flavor and adds a tantalizing depth to your chili. Cook until the beef loses its raw pink color and starts to develop a rich, caramelized crust.

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomato Base and Beans

Stir in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, making sure to mix thoroughly. Then add the drained kidney beans and crumbled beef bouillon cubes. The tomato paste will thicken the sauce, while the crushed tomatoes provide moisture and tang. The beans give a creamy texture and help make this dish wonderfully hearty.

Step 4: Season Generously

Now for the magic—add the sugar, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Each spice layer builds the signature flavor of the Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe. Stir everything together and let the mix infuse with the rich spices.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in water gradually to loosen the chili to your preferred consistency. Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and let it cook for at least 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken into a sumptuous, comforting dish.

How to Serve Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe

Garnishes

The finishing touches truly make a difference. Add a generous dollop of sour cream to cool down the chili’s heat, sprinkle grated cheese for that melty, indulgent layer, and scatter chopped coriander for brightness and freshness. These simple garnishes enhance the dish’s texture and flavor, turning an already delicious plate into something extraordinary.

Side Dishes

This chili pairs perfectly with corn chips for a crunchy contrast, warm tortillas for scooping, or fluffy rice to soak up every last bit of sauce. Whichever you choose, they complement the Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe beautifully, making it feel like a full, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chili in a bread bowl or stuff it inside baked potatoes. You can also layer it in a casserole with cheese and bake for a chili pie. These creative presentations add excitement and make the dish perfect for entertaining or a cozy family dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chili keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making your next meal even tastier.

Freezing

This Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to three months. It’s a lifesaver for busy days when you want a quick, homemade meal waiting for you.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your chili gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts until piping hot. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much while stored.

FAQs

Can I use different beans instead of kidney beans?

Absolutely! Black beans or pinto beans work just as well and provide a slightly different texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

How spicy is this Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe?

The heat level is quite flexible; the cayenne pepper can be adjusted to your taste. Start with a smaller amount if you prefer milder chili and add more as you go.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the beef bouillon cubes and any additional sides or garnishes are gluten-free. Always check labels to be certain.

Can I make this vegetarian?

While this recipe centers on ground beef, you can substitute it with textured vegetable protein or extra beans and vegetables to keep it hearty and satisfying.

How long does it take to cook this chili?

From start to finish, expect around an hour including prep and simmering time. The slow simmer is key to developing that rich, complex flavor.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to comfort meals. The layers of spice, tender beef, and creamy beans offer something for everyone, and it’s incredibly satisfying to make from scratch. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and share this delicious dish with family or friends—it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

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