Ella's Pantry
Prize-Winning Chili Con Carne

Prize-Winning Chili Con Carne

Prep: 35 minsCook: 2 hrs 20 mins

Prep

35 mins

Cook

2 hrs 20 mins

Servings

2

Difficulty

Hard

Dairy-FreeNut-FreeEgg-Free
(0)

This is the chili recipe that won me twenty thousand dollars in a national competition, and honestly, I still can't believe it happened. The secret is in the unexpected combination of spices and a touch of cocoa that adds incredible depth without anyone quite knowing what it is. Using lean pork alongside chuck beef keeps it healthier than traditional versions while adding amazing flavor complexity. What I love most is that this recipe won't break the bank for ingredients you probably already have, and it comes together in under three hours from start to finish. Every time I make it, friends ask for the recipe, and now I'm sharing my winning formula with you.

Ella x

Detail level

Recipe Variations

Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.

You Might Also Like

Tuna Patties

Tuna Patties

These tuna patties have become a weeknight favorite in my kitchen because they're ready in under twenty minutes and honestly cost just a few dollars to make. I love that canned tuna is packed with omega 3 fatty acids that are great for your heart and brain, plus it means no special shopping required. The bright lemon juice and fresh herbs keep things from tasting fishy, and that little kick of hot sauce adds so much flavor without any fuss. They're crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfect with just some lemon wedges on the side.

18 mins
Nut-Free
Campfire stew

Campfire stew

Nothing beats a hearty campfire stew when you're feeding a crowd, and this one's become my go to recipe because it's so straightforward to throw together. The beauty of this dish is that most of the work happens while you're relaxing by the fire, letting everything simmer away for hours. Gammon gives it a wonderfully smoky flavor, while the haricot beans pack in fiber and protein to keep everyone satisfied. It's the kind of rustic, warming meal that tastes even better outdoors, and honestly, it costs very little to make while feeding plenty of people.

3 hrs 40 mins
Gluten-FreeDairy-FreeVegetarianVeganNut-FreeEgg-Free
Tropical Quinoa (Ww)

Tropical Quinoa (Ww)

This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.

40 mins
Gluten-FreeDairy-FreeVegetarianVeganNut-FreeEgg-Free

Reviews

Sign in to write a review.