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

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

I love cold-weather food that’s hearty, cozy, and packed with bold flavor—and this Guinness Beef Chili checks every box. Rich beef, warming spices, and the deep, malty flavor of Guinness come together to create a thick, comforting chili that’s perfect for cold, dreary days. The stout adds incredible depth without tasting bitter, making this chili feel slow-cooked and indulgent, even if you make it in one evening.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • lbs ground beef (or chuck, diced small)

  • 1 large onion, diced

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 cup Guinness stout

  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

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

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

  • 1½ tablespoons chili powder

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • Salt, to taste

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • Optional: ½ teaspoon cocoa powder or brown sugar (enhances depth)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef
    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

  2. Build the Flavor Base
    Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. Tomato Paste & Deglaze
    Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. Pour in the Guinness and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

  4. Simmer
    Add crushed tomatoes, beans, beef broth, and all spices. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.

  5. Slow Cook
    Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich.

  6. Taste & Adjust
    Season with salt and adjust spices as needed. Add cocoa powder or brown sugar if using.

Notes

  • Use real Guinness stout for authentic depth

  • Let it simmer longer for even richer flavor

  • Chunky beef option: Use beef chuck instead of ground beef

  • Spice it up: Add cayenne or diced jalapeños

  • Thicker chili: Simmer uncovered or mash some beans