Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe

If you are craving a hearty, flavor-packed dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe is exactly what you need. This iconic dish combines tender ground beef, smoky spices, and rich tomato goodness, all simmered to perfection to create layers of bold taste. It’s a meal that satisfies both the soul and the appetite, perfect for sharing with friends or cozying up with on a chilly evening.

Ingredients You’ll Need

If you think a dish this rich requires complicated ingredients, think again. Each component in this recipe is simple, but together they build the vibrant, comforting flavors that make this Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe so unforgettable. From spices that add warmth to fresh veggies that provide texture and brightness, every item matters.

• 1 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for sautéing your aromatics and bringing out their natural sweetness.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds that irresistible pungent kick that’s fundamental to chili.
• 1 onion, diced: Provides a natural sweetness and depth to the base of the chili.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings subtle sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
• 500g ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this chili satisfying and filling.
• 3 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates rich tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• 800g crushed tomatoes: The juicy and tangy foundation of the chili’s sauce.
• 420g red kidney beans, drained: Adds creaminess, fiber, and a lovely bite.
• 2 beef bouillon cubes, crumbled: Boosts savoriness and deep meaty flavor.
• 1½ tsp sugar: Balances acidity and enhances the natural sweetness of tomatoes.
• ½ to 1½ cups water (as needed): Adjusts consistency to your preferred stewiness.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all flavors.
• 1–2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste): Adds just the right amount of heat for that classic chili warmth.
• 4 tsp paprika: Gives smoky undertones and depth to your chili.
• 5 tsp cumin: Introduces that earthy, slightly nutty flavor that defines chili spice.
• 2 tsp garlic powder: Boosts garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
• 2 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory background notes.
• 2 tsp dried oregano: Adds a subtle herbal brightness to balance the richness.
• Sour cream: For creamy, cool topping contrast.
• Grated cheese: Melts deliciously on top adding richness.
• Chopped coriander/cilantro: Freshness that lifts every bite.
• Corn chips, tortillas, or rice: Perfect for scooping, dipping, or serving alongside.

How to Make Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat your 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 soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes. This simple step builds the foundation of flavor that will carry through the entire dish.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with your spoon and cook until it’s beautifully browned all over. Browning the beef properly develops umami and intensifies the meatiness which is crucial for the signature rich taste of Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe.

Step 3: Introduce Tomato Flavors

Stir in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. This combination creates a hearty, tangy base that will thicken as you simmer. Let it bubble gently to marry the flavors, bringing a nice brightness and body to the dish.

Step 4: Add Beans and Spices

Now it’s time to add the drained kidney beans along with all the spices — paprika, cumin, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Sprinkle in the crumbled beef bouillon cubes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour in half a cup of water to help everything simmer smoothly. This step transforms simple ingredients into a complex symphony of flavors true to Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat and let your chili bubble gently for about 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally and add more water if it gets too thick. This slow simmer is where the magic happens: all the flavors meld together, resulting in a rich, thick, and deeply satisfying chili.

How to Serve Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishing, fresh is best. Dollops of sour cream bring the perfect cooling contrast to the spice, while a generous sprinkle of grated cheese melts over the still-warm chili, adding a luscious texture. Finish with chopped coriander or cilantro for a fresh, herbal burst that cuts through the richness.

Side Dishes

This chili is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with crispy corn chips or warm tortillas for scooping every last bit. If you’d prefer something more substantial, a fluffy bed of steamed rice is a classic choice that rounds out the meal wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your chili in hollowed-out bell peppers or baked potatoes. You could also layer it in a casserole with toppings for a chili pie or turn it into loaded chili nachos by layering corn chips, cheese, and jalapeños. The Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe is flexible enough to let your creativity shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chili stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 or 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making next-day servings even tastier!

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, this chili freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and it will last for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chili gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water if it’s too thick. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through, until piping hot and ready to enjoy again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans instead of kidney beans?

Absolutely! Black beans or pinto beans can be excellent substitutes if you want a slightly different texture or flavor. Just be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat level can be adjusted easily by varying the amount of cayenne pepper. Start with 1 teaspoon if you prefer milder chili and increase it as you get comfortable with the spice level.

Is this chili suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for batch cooking or lunch prep.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can swap the ground beef for plant-based mince or add extra beans and vegetables to keep it hearty and filling while still loading it with flavor.

What’s the best way to thicken this chili if it’s too watery?

Simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to let excess liquid evaporate, or add a spoonful of tomato paste to thicken the sauce without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Gordon Ramsay Chili Con Carne Recipe is a soul-satisfying classic made simple with a few fresh ingredients and bold spices. It’s cozy, comforting, and packed with layers of flavor that make every spoonful a joy. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try — it might just become your new go-to comfort meal for chilly nights or family dinners. Trust me, once you make it, the warmth and richness will keep you coming back for more!

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