Get ready to spice up your life with these 18 mouth-watering, beer-infused chili recipes! Whether you’re a fan of bold and beefy or vegetarian and vibrant, we’ve got a recipe for everyone. From classic beef and bean combinations to unique twists featuring stout and porter beers, our list is sure to satisfy any craving.
In this article, we’ll take a journey around the world of beer-infused chili, exploring the perfect pairings between rich, malty brews and hearty, warming chilies. With ingredients ranging from chorizo and chipotle peppers to sweet potatoes and quinoa, there’s something for every taste bud and dietary requirement.
So grab your apron, don your comfiest cooking shoes, and get ready to dive into the ultimate guide to beer-infused chili recipes!
Beer-Braised Beef Chili
This recipe combines the rich flavors of braised beef with the warmth and comfort of a classic chili, all tied together with the perfect balance of beer and spices. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef brisket or chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beer (any style)
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then set aside.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
3. Add chili powder and cumin; cook 1 minute.
4. Add beer, browned beef, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or overnight.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or overnight
Spicy Chocolate Stout Chili
A rich and bold chili that combines the deep flavors of stout beer with a spicy kick, all wrapped up in a velvety chocolate sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup stout beer
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, stout beer, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the dark chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
IPA Black Bean Chili
Combine the bold flavors of India Pale Ale (IPA) beer with the warmth of black beans and spices for a unique and delicious chili. This recipe is perfect for those who love trying new twists on classic dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup IPA beer
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, and IPA beer. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Porter Chili with Bacon
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavors of porter beer with smoky bacon and tender beef, creating a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups Smoky Porter Beer (or substitute with another dark beer)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the same pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned.
4. Pour in the porter beer, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits.
5. Stir in chili powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer the chili for 30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the meat is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetarian Beer Chili with Quinoa
A hearty, plant-based twist on classic chili, this recipe combines the richness of beer with the nutty flavor of quinoa for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup beer (any style)
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add mixed vegetables, black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in beer and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot over cooked quinoa.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
White Chicken Chili with Wheat Beer
This recipe combines the comfort of chicken chili with the unique flavor of wheat beer, creating a creamy and deliciously unique dish perfect for any occasion. With just the right amount of spice and a hint of citrus, this white chicken chili is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup wheat beer (such as Sierra Nevada Pale Ale)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and wheat beer. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Three-Bean Chili with Lager
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this three-bean chili is made even richer with the addition of lager beer. This easy-to-make dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup cooked pinto beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz lager beer
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked beans, diced tomatoes, and lager beer.
5. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chipotle Beer Chili with Ground Turkey
This hearty chili combines the rich flavor of ground turkey with the bold heat of chipotle peppers and a hint of sweetness from beer. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beer (any dark-colored beer works well)
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions for topping
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and chipotle peppers; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beer. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Beer and Sausage Chili
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sausage and beer with a medley of spices to create a warm, comforting chili perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup beer (any style)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, onion, garlic, beef broth, beer, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin to a large slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Bourbon Barrel Stout Chili
Warm up with a rich and complex chili that combines the bold flavors of bourbon barrel stout with tender ground beef and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup bourbon barrel stout (chilled)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the bourbon barrel stout, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Ale Chili with Chorizo
This hearty chili combines the warmth of pumpkin ale with the spicy kick of chorizo, making it a perfect blend of fall flavors. This recipe is easy to make and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup pumpkin ale
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef and chorizo in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and pumpkin ale.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Habanero Beer Chili
Spicy Habanero Beer Chili Recipe
This Spicy Habanero Beer Chili recipe combines the bold flavors of habanero peppers with a hint of beer to create a spicy and savory dish perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 habanero peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup beer (any style)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the onion, garlic, and habanero peppers to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the flavors are combined.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, beef broth, beer, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has reached your desired thickness.
Cooking Time:
About 30 minutes total. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Guinness Beef and Mushroom Chili
Warm up with this rich and satisfying chili recipe that combines the deep flavors of Guinness stout with tender beef and earthy mushrooms. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, mushrooms, garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and Guinness stout. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Pale Ale Veggie Chili
Perfect for a cozy night in or a tailgating party, this Pale Ale Veggie Chili is a flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional chili recipes. With the added depth of pale ale beer, this hearty dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 red bell peppers, diced
– 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup pale ale beer
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add tomatoes, beans, and beer; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, topped with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Lager Chili with Lime
This chili recipe combines the bold flavors of Mexico with the crispness of lime, all tied together with a splash of Mexican lager. Perfect for a casual gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup Mexican lager beer
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes and black beans. Simmer 10 minutes.
5. Pour in Mexican lager beer and stir to combine.
6. Squeeze lime juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dark Beer Chili with Sweet Potatoes
A hearty, rich chili recipe that combines the bold flavors of dark beer with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup dark beer (such as porter or stout)
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, dark beer, beef broth, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Add the sweet potato cubes to the pot; continue to simmer until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes more.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Ale Chili with Smoked Paprika
This hearty chili combines the bold flavors of smoked paprika, rich red ale, and tender beef to create a warming, satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening. With its depth of flavor and velvety texture, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 bottle (12 oz) red ale beer
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, red beans, beer, and beef broth.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cornbread-Topped Beer Chili Casserole
This recipe combines the richness of chili with the warmth of cornbread, creating a satisfying and filling casserole perfect for cold winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beer
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned; drain excess fat.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, beer, and kidney beans.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Mix cornbread mix with milk and pour over the chili mixture.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your chili game with these 18 mouth-watering recipes that infuse beer for an added depth of flavor. From classic beef and black bean to vegetarian and vegan options, there’s something for everyone. Try the Beer-Braised Beef Chili for a rich and hearty twist or go bold with the Spicy Chocolate Stout Chili. For a lighter option, opt for the IPA Black Bean Chili or the White Chicken Chili with Wheat Beer. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for new recipe ideas, these chili recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.