Craving a hearty, warming dish that’s packed with rich flavour? My Schwartz Chilli Con Carne Recipe is the ultimate comfort food – a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a casual weekend get-together. With tender beef mince, colourful peppers, kidney beans, and the bold kick of Schwartz seasoning, this chilli recipe strikes the perfect balance between smoky, spicy, and savoury. Serve it with fluffy rice, a dollop of sour cream, and crunchy tortilla chips for a truly satisfying meal.

Whether you’re new to chilli con carne or want to level up your usual recipe, this version with Schwartz seasoning brings out the best flavours while keeping the cooking process simple and stress-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Vegetables

Chop the red pepper, yellow pepper, and half a red onion into fine pieces. Set them aside while you prepare the beef.

2. Brown the Beef

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef mince and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon into small, even pieces. This step adds depth and flavour to the dish.

3. Add the Veggies

Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess juices. Add the chopped peppers and onion to the pan. Stir well and let them soften for a few minutes, mixing in with the beef.

4. Season with Schwartz Mix

Sprinkle in the Schwartz Chilli Con Carne Seasoning Mix and stir thoroughly, ensuring the beef and vegetables are evenly coated with the spices. This seasoning blend is the secret to a rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavour.

5. Add Beans and Tomatoes

Drain and rinse one tin of kidney beans, then add them to the pan along with two tins of chopped tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined.

6. Simmer for Flavour

Turn the heat down to low and let the chilli simmer gently. The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavour becomes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Simmer for at least 30–40 minutes, but you can leave it longer if you have the time.

7. Cook the Rice

While the chilli is simmering, boil a mug of brown rice in plenty of water. Once it begins to boil, stir it gently, cover with a lid, and let it cook for 20–25 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

8. Prepare the Toppings

While the rice cooks, chop a fresh chilli (if you like extra heat), slice your lime into wedges, and set out your sour cream, tortilla chips, and any other toppings you’d like to serve.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Once most of the liquid has reduced and your chilli has reached a rich, thick consistency, turn off the heat. Spoon the rice into bowls, ladle the chilli on top, and serve with a dollop of sour cream, a handful of tortilla chips, and a squeeze of lime.

Serving and Decoration

One of the best things about Schwartz Chilli Con Carne is its versatility when serving. Here are some of my favourite ways to enjoy it:

• Classic Bowl: Serve over a bed of fluffy brown rice, topped with a spoonful of sour cream, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime.
  
• With Crunch: Add tortilla chips on the side for dipping or sprinkle crushed nachos on top for extra crunch.
  
• Loaded Jacket Potatoes: Spoon the chilli into baked potatoes for a hearty twist.
  
• Chilli Nachos: Spread tortilla chips on a tray, spoon over chilli, top with cheese, and bake until melted – the ultimate party snack.
  
• Fresh Garnishes: Top with fresh coriander, diced avocado, or jalapeño slices for extra flavour and colour.

Storage Instructions

Keeping it Fresh

Store leftover chilli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot, then serve.

Freezing Chilli

This dish freezes beautifully. Let the chilli cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm through on the stove.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make Schwartz Chilli Con Carne in advance?

Yes! In fact, chilli often tastes even better the next day as the flavours have more time to develop. Store it in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap the beef mince for lentils, Quorn mince, or extra beans. The Schwartz Chilli Con Carne seasoning still works perfectly with vegetarian alternatives.

3. What can I serve with chilli con carne besides rice?

You can enjoy it with jacket potatoes, nachos, tortilla wraps, or even as a filling for tacos. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.

4. How spicy is this recipe?

Using Schwartz seasonings yields a medium spice level. Level your preference for hott? You add fresh chillies, chilli flakes, or a splash of chilli sauce.

5. Can I freeze Schwartz Chilli Con Carne?

Yes, this recipe freezes really well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

6. Can I use different beans in this recipe?

Definitely, while kidney beans are traditional, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a twist.

7. How long should I simmer chilli con carne?

At least 30–40 minutes is recommended, but for a deeper flavour, you can let it cook low and slow for up to 1.5 hours.

Conclusion

Making a Schwartz Chilli Con Carne at home is easier than you think,  and the results are absolutely worth it. From the smoky, rich seasoning to the hearty beans and tender beef, every bite is bursting with flavour. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or even entertaining friends.

What I love most is its adaptability; you can keep it mild for the family, spice it up with fresh chillies, or even substitute the beef for lentils if you prefer a vegetarian version. However you make it, this recipe guarantees a warming, comforting dish that everyone will want seconds of.

So, grab your Schwartz seasoning, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to cook a chilli con carne that’s sure to become a family favourite.