Guinness Beef Chili (Rich, Hearty & Packed with Deep Flavor)

When cold weather rolls in, there’s nothing more comforting than a big pot of chili slowly simmering on the stove—and Guinness Beef Chili is truly in a league of its own. This is not your average weeknight chili. It’s deep, bold, and complex, with layers of flavor that taste like they’ve been developing all day, even if you make it in a single evening.

What makes this chili special is the addition of Guinness stout. The dark Irish beer brings subtle notes of roasted malt, coffee, and caramel that enhance the beef and spices without overpowering them. The result is a thick, luxurious chili that feels rustic, cozy, and indulgent—perfect for winter dinners, game days, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, or anytime you’re craving something hearty and soul-warming.

This Guinness Beef Chili is also incredibly versatile. You can make it mild or spicy, chunky or smooth, thick enough to pile onto baked potatoes or just right for ladling into bowls with crusty bread on the side. And like all great chilis, it somehow tastes even better the next day.

In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making the best Guinness Beef Chili—from ingredient choices and cooking techniques to storage tips, variations, and serving ideas. Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding a hungry crowd, this chili delivers every single time.

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Why You’ll Love This Guinness Beef Chili

There are countless chili recipes out there, but this one stands out for all the right reasons. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:

Ultra Hearty & Filling

This chili is loaded with beef, beans, and a rich tomato base, making it satisfying enough to be a full meal on its own.

Deep, Complex Flavor

The Guinness stout adds a dark, malty richness that elevates the chili far beyond ordinary beef chili.

Perfect for Cold Weather

Warm spices, slow simmering, and thick texture make this chili ideal for fall and winter nights.

Better the Next Day

Like stews and braises, Guinness Beef Chili develops even more flavor as it rests—perfect for leftovers and meal prep.

Crowd-Pleaser

This recipe scales easily and is a hit at potlucks, game-day parties, and family gatherings.

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What Is Guinness Beef Chili?

At its core, Guinness Beef Chili is a traditional beef chili enhanced with stout beer. Guinness, a classic Irish dry stout, is known for its roasted barley flavor, subtle bitterness, and creamy finish. When cooked down, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind a deep, savory richness that complements beef beautifully.

The stout doesn’t make the chili taste like beer. Instead, it adds depth, balance, and a slightly earthy undertone that makes the chili taste slow-cooked and restaurant-quality.

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Ingredients for Guinness Beef Chili

This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients, but each one plays an important role in building flavor.

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For browning the beef and sautéing aromatics

• 1½ lbs ground beef (or diced beef chuck) – The hearty base of the chili

• 1 large onion, diced – Adds sweetness and body

• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for savory depth

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Concentrated tomato flavor and richness

• 1 cup Guinness stout – The star ingredient

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes – Creates the chili base

• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup beef broth – Adds savory moisture and balance

Spices & Seasonings

• 1½ tablespoons chili powder

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Salt, to taste

Optional Flavor Boosters

• ½ teaspoon cocoa powder – Enhances richness and depth

• ½ teaspoon brown sugar – Balances acidity and bitterness

These optional ingredients don’t make the chili sweet or chocolatey—they simply round out the flavors.

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How to Make Guinness Beef Chili (Step-by-Step)

1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off.

Tip: Browning the beef properly creates flavorful caramelized bits that form the foundation of a great chili.

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2. Build the Flavor Base

Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

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3. Tomato Paste & Deglaze

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Pour in the Guinness stout and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This step adds incredible depth and complexity.

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4. Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beans, beef broth, and all the spices. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

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5. Simmer Low & Slow

Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich.

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6. Taste & Adjust

Season with salt to taste. If using cocoa powder or brown sugar, stir it in during the final 10 minutes of cooking. Adjust spice levels as needed.

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Tips for the Best Guinness Beef Chili

Use Real Guinness

For authentic flavor, use real Guinness stout—not a substitute. Other stouts can work, but Guinness provides the classic balance of bitterness and maltiness.

Let It Simmer

The longer it simmers, the better it gets. If you have time, let it go for 90 minutes on low heat.

Chunky Beef Option

Swap ground beef for diced beef chuck for a more stew-like, rustic chili. Brown the cubes well before simmering.

Adjust the Thickness

For thicker chili, simmer uncovered longer or mash some of the beans with a spoon.

Control the Heat

Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños if you like your chili spicy.

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Guinness Beef Chili Variations

Slow Cooker Guinness Beef Chili

Brown the beef and aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

Guinness Beef Chili Without Beans

Simply omit the beans and add extra beef or vegetables for a Texas-style chili.

Smoky Guinness Chili

Add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for smoky heat.

Vegetable-Loaded Chili

Add bell peppers, carrots, or celery for extra texture and nutrition.

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Serving Suggestions

This Guinness Beef Chili is incredibly versatile. Try serving it:

• With shredded cheddar or sharp Irish cheese

• Topped with sour cream or crème fraîche

• Garnished with chopped green onions or parsley

• Alongside cornbread or crusty bread

• Over baked potatoes or fries

• Spoon it onto hot dogs or nachos

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Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Guinness Beef Chili freezes beautifully. Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Print

Nutrition (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 420–460 kcal

• Protein: 32–35 g

• Fat: 20–24 g

• Carbohydrates: 30–34 g

• Fiber: 7–9 g

• Sodium: 650–800 mg

Values will vary depending on toppings and ingredient choices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Guinness make the chili bitter?

No. When simmered, the bitterness mellows, leaving a deep, savory flavor.

Can I make this chili alcohol-free?

Yes. Substitute beef broth plus a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Is Guinness Beef Chili kid-friendly?

Yes—the alcohol cooks off completely during simmering.

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Final Thoughts

This Guinness Beef Chili is everything a cold-weather meal should be: rich, hearty, comforting, and deeply flavorful. The Guinness stout transforms a classic chili into something truly special, adding complexity without overpowering the dish. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings people back for seconds—and thirds.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, prepping meals for the week, or feeding a crowd on game day, this chili delivers every time. It’s bold without being heavy, comforting without being boring, and endlessly customizable to suit your taste.