Taco Chili is a hearty dish packed with beef, vegetables, a hint of beer, and plenty of taco seasoning! Skip the taco shells and enjoy this comforting bowl of chili for a new twist on “Taco Tuesday”. For a classic Midwestern chili, be sure to try my Grandma’s Homemade Chili.
Taco Tuesdays aren’t limited to just tacos anymore! Once you try this Taco Chili, you’ll want to enjoy it more often than just Tuesdays. Plus, this recipe includes beer, adding an extra layer of flavor to the chili. So why not crack open a cold one while your chili simmers? In just 45 minutes, you can have a warm and flavorful meal ready to serve. The best part is how simple it is to make!
Taco Chili Ingredients
- Beef: Ground beef is used in this recipe. You can substitute ground chicken or ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Taco Seasoning: Use store-bought taco seasoning or make your own for a customized flavor.
- Beer: A light beer is preferred, but chicken broth, beef broth, or even freshly brewed coffee can be used as substitutes.
Why Use Beer in Chili?
Adding beer to chili introduces a unique flavor not found in other chili recipes. Light beer is used here, but feel free to experiment with different types. An IPA will impart a stronger, hoppier flavor, while a lager will be milder yet enhance the other ingredients. Simmering the chili for 30-45 minutes allows the alcohol to cook off, leaving behind a rich depth of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 cans (28 ounces / 800g each) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (15.25 ounces / 430g each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces / 425g) sweet corn, drained
- 12 ounces (355ml) beer
Instructions
- Cook Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion, stirring occasionally, until the meat is no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste: Stir in the taco seasoning, chili powder, and tomato paste until well combined.
- Add Vegetables: Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and sweet corn to the skillet.
- Pour in Beer: Pour the beer over the mixture and stir to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chili simmer for 30-45 minutes. Serve hot.
Enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make Taco Chili as a fun twist on traditional chili. It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day or for a simple yet satisfying meal any day of the week!