Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 bold and spicy Chili Colorado recipes! This classic Mexican dish, also known as “Chili Colorado con Carne”, typically consists of tender chunks of beef or pork simmered in a rich, smoky tomato-based sauce. But we’re not just stopping at the traditional recipe – we’ve gathered a collection of innovative twists and variations that will take your Chili Colorado game to the next level.
From hearty stews and slow-cooked braises to creative uses for this flavorful filling, such as tamales, nachos, and quesadillas, there’s something for every palate and cooking style. So go ahead, spice up your life with these mouth-watering recipes that are sure to become new family favorites!
Slow Cooker Chili Colorado with Beef
This hearty slow cooker chili combines tender beef with a rich, flavorful sauce featuring the bold spices and chilies characteristic of Chili Colorado. Perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer to slow cooker.
2. Add onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, beans, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to slow cooker.
3. Stir in water and cilantro (if using).
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Authentic Mexican Chili Colorado con Carne
Authentic Mexican Chili Colorado con Carne Recipe
Summary: This hearty chili recipe is a staple of traditional Mexican cuisine, made with tender beef, rich chilies, and deep flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
– 1/2 cup dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces crushed tomatoes
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and warm tortillas for serving
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add the beef broth, ancho chiles, guajillo chiles, chili powder, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, lime wedges, and warm tortillas if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Chili Colorado with Pork
Easy Chili Colorado with Pork
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This Easy Chili Colorado with Pork is a twist on the classic, using tender pork instead of beef.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Step 1: Brown the pork in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Step 2: Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Step 3: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Step 4: Add the diced tomatoes and red kidney beans. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 5: Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes. Servings: 4-6
Spicy Chili Colorado Burritos
Spicy Chili Colorado Burritos Recipe
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful burrito recipe that combines tender beef, spicy chili, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and red kidney beans to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the burritos by spooning the beef mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chili Colorado Tacos with Homemade Tortillas
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this recipe for Chili Colorado Tacos, served with a side of warm, homemade tortillas.
Ingredients:
For the Chili:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tortillas:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. For the Chili: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add beef, broth, cumin, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
2. For the Tortillas: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing with a fork until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes. Divide into 8-10 portions; roll each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly to form tortillas.
3. Assemble Tacos: Slice the cooked beef into thin strips. Warm tortillas by wrapping in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds. Fill with beef, your favorite toppings, and serve.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (Chili) + 5 minutes (Tortillas)
Chili Colorado Enchiladas with Cheese
Warm up with this rich and flavorful Mexican dish, featuring tender beef cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce and wrapped in tortillas with melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or flank steak, cut into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook beef in a skillet with oil until browned; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add cumin, paprika, and spices; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and green chilies; simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble enchiladas: place beef on a tortilla, top with sauce and cheese, and roll up. Place seam-side down in a baking dish.
8. Top with remaining cheese; bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chili Colorado
A hearty, smoky chili that combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with the rich taste of beef and a hint of Colorado’s mountain spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and water.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chili Colorado Stuffed Peppers
Savor the bold flavors of Chili Colorado as it fills tender bell peppers with a rich and spicy filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked chili con carne
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked chili con carne and cooked rice.
6. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
7. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
One-Pot Chili Colorado with Rice
This hearty one-pot dish combines tender beef, rich chili sauce, and fluffy rice in a flavorful medley that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With minimal cleanup and just 30 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is a weeknight winner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef, onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
2. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and rice to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chili Colorado Nachos with Guacamole
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this hearty and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick snack or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips (your favorite brand)
– 1 can of Chili Colorado (spicy beef and bean chili)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed for guacamole
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spoon Chili Colorado over the chips, spreading evenly.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chili.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Meanwhile, mix together mashed avocado and a pinch of salt and pepper for guacamole.
7. Serve nachos hot with a dollop of guacamole on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chili Colorado Quesadillas with Oaxaca Cheese
A twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Chili Colorado with the creamy richness of Oaxaca cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/2 cup Chili Colorado (beef and chili sauce)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Brush one side of each tortilla with vegetable oil.
3. Place a tortilla, oiled-side down, in the skillet.
4. Spoon 1/4 cup of Chili Colorado onto half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle 1/8 cup of Oaxaca and cheddar cheese on top of the Chili Colorado.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
9. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chili Colorado Soup with Cornbread
This rich and flavorful Chili Colorado Soup is a staple of the American Southwest, made with tender beef, sweet potatoes, and a blend of spices. Serve it with a warm slice of cornbread for a cozy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the soup:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the cornbread:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add sweet potato, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes or until the sweet potato is tender.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix cornbread ingredients in a bowl; pour into a greased skillet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve soup with warm cornbread.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chili Colorado Tostadas with Refried Beans
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe. Chili Colorado Tostadas with Refried Beans combines crispy tostadas, savory refried beans, and spicy chili for a snack or light meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas (tostadas)
– Chili Colorado (see below for recipe or use store-bought)
– Shredded cheese, optional
Chili Colorado Recipe:
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add refried beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
3. Warm tostadas by wrapping in foil and heating in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
4. Assemble tostadas with refried beans, Chili Colorado, and shredded cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chili Colorado Sliders with Avocado Crema
Take your sliders game to the next level with these bold and savory Chili Colorado Sliders, topped with a creamy and refreshing Avocado Crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup Chili Colorado sauce (see below for recipe)
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, or diced onions for garnish
Chili Colorado Sauce:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form ground beef into 8-10 patties. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Assemble sliders by spreading Chili Colorado sauce on each patty, then topping with cheese and a spoonful of Avocado Crema (see below).
4. Serve immediately.
Avocado Crema:
1. In a bowl, mash ripe avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Chili Colorado Tamales with Red Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this recipe for Chili Colorado Tamales, wrapped in a spicy red sauce. This traditional dish combines tender beef and flavorful chilies with steamed tamales.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket or shank
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3-4 dried ancho or guajillo chilies
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper
– 8 corn husks (fresh or dried)
– 2 cups masa harina
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Red sauce ingredients: 2 cups beef broth, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Marinate the beef in a mixture of onion, chilies, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 4 hours.
2. Shred the beef and cook it with 1 cup water until tender.
3. Soak the corn husks in water for at least 30 minutes.
4. Mix the masa harina with 2 cups warm water to form a dough.
5. Fry the tamales in vegetable oil until golden brown, then wrap them in red sauce and serve.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including marinating time)
Chili Colorado Pizza with Jalapeños
Get ready to spice up your pizza night with this bold and flavorful recipe! This Chili Colorado Pizza with Jalapeños combines the richness of chili con carne with the spiciness of jalapeños, all atop a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 slices jalapeño peppers
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for topping
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness and place on baking sheet.
3. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Spread cooked mixture onto pizza dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
6. Top with diced tomatoes and shredded cheese.
7. Arrange jalapeño slices on top of pizza.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chili Colorado Meatballs in Red Chile Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of the Southwest with this hearty recipe that combines tender meatballs with a rich, spicy red chile sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup red chile sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the red chile sauce in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
7. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
8. Remove meatballs from oven and add them to the skillet with the chile sauce.
9. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the meatballs are fully coated in the sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chili Colorado Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your sweet potato game with this bold and flavorful recipe. Chili Colorado, a traditional Colorado-style chili made with beef, tomatoes, and spices, takes center stage in these stuffed sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes; bring to a simmer.
6. Cut sweet potatoes open lengthwise; top each with Chili Colorado mixture.
7. Return stuffed sweet potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese melts (if using).
8. Serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 bold and flavorful Chili Colorado recipes! From classic beef and pork chili to creative twists like burritos, tacos, and enchiladas, there’s something for everyone. Try slow-cooker options, one-pot wonders, or add a smoky chipotle kick. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these Chili Colorado recipes are sure to delight. With a range of spice levels and ingredient combinations, you’ll find the perfect dish to suit your taste buds. Dive in and explore this mouth-watering collection today!
