Rich, cozy, and simply packed with crave-worthy layers of taste, Guinness Beef Chili is that magical one-pot meal that makes you excited for dinner all day long. Picture tender beef swimming in a boldly seasoned, tomatoey sauce, made richer and more robust thanks to a generous pour of malty Guinness. Whether it’s game night, a blustery winter evening, or you just need a bowl of serious comfort, this chili always delivers. I can promise you: if robust flavors and stick-to-your-ribs satisfaction are what you’re craving, Guinness Beef Chili deserves a place in your kitchen rotation.

Guinness Beef Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Guinness Beef Chili is wonderfully simple, but don’t let that fool you—every component counts. Each adds its own layer of flavor, helping create a chili that’s rich, savory, slightly smoky, and hearty beyond belief. Here’s what you’ll need and how each contributes:

Beef (ground or cubed chuck): The heart of this dish; provides deep, meaty flavor and satisfying texture.
Onion: Adds aromatic sweetness, forming the flavor base as it caramelizes.
Garlic: Essential for pungent, craveable depth in every spoonful.
Red bell pepper: Offers color and a gentle sweetness that brightens the whole pot.
Jalapeño: Brings a subtle, customizable kick—skip, seed, or double it depending on your spice preference.
Diced tomatoes: Provide acidity and juiciness, helping build that classic chili base.
Tomato paste: Concentrates richness and helps thicken the sauce.
Beef broth: Adds further depth and is key for deglazing all those flavorful browned bits.
Kidney beans: Creamy and classic, these beans anchor the chili’s texture.
Black beans: Lend earthy flavor and a lovely color contrast.
Chili powder: The backbone of that warm, savory chili flavor.
Smoked paprika: Introduces a whisper of smokiness for irresistible complexity.
Cumin: Brings subtle earthiness and warmth, a chili essential.
Dried oregano: Adds herbal nuance and depth.
Salt and black pepper: Simple but absolutely necessary for balancing all the flavors.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds salty, savory umami that really boosts the beefiness.
Brown sugar (optional): Rounds out and balances the acidity from the tomatoes and stout.
Guinness stout: The star addition, infusing the chili with richness, slight bitterness, and a malty backbone you just can’t get any other way!

How to Make Guinness Beef Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then add the beef. Sear it until nicely browned and caramelized—that’s where huge flavor begins. If there’s a lot of fat, don’t hesitate to drain some off, leaving just enough for a luscious base.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Next, stir in those diced onions, garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño. Let everything cook until softened and fragrant—your kitchen will smell irresistible! This mix creates a sweet and savory bed for all the other seasonings to shine.

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle in your chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano, followed by the tomato paste. Stir constantly for about a minute or two. This “blooms” the spices and heats the paste, unlocking a deeper richness and color for your Guinness Beef Chili.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the beef broth, scraping up every last browned bit stuck to the pot—they’re bursted with flavor and essential to a good chili. Let it come to a gentle simmer, marrying all the base flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, more tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar if desired. Give everything a solid stir and then bring it to a simmer. If you’re craving that signature deep, malty kick, now’s the time to gently pour in your Guinness stout!

Step 6: Simmer

Lower the heat, put on the lid, and let your chili gently bubble for at least one hour—longer if you have the time. The flavors will meld and deepen as it cooks, transforming simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable Guinness Beef Chili.

Step 7: Add Beans

About 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the kidney and black beans. Since they’re already cooked, you just want them to warm through and absorb all those magical flavors.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning

Time for a taste! Add extra salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference. Want it thicker? Let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer or mash a handful of beans right in the pot for creamy thickness.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle your chili piping hot into bowls and shower generously with your favorite toppings—think cheese, sour cream, scallions, or a few crumbles of cornbread right on top. Now, dig in!

How to Serve Guinness Beef Chili

Garnishes

For me, the magic of Guinness Beef Chili comes alive with toppings! Try a snowy layer of freshly grated sharp cheddar, a dollop of cool sour cream, or buttery slices of avocado. Chopped green onions or cilantro add color and a fresh bite, while a lime wedge on the side offers a pop of brightness that lifts every spoonful.

Side Dishes

This hearty chili begs for a side to scoop and savor. I love serving it with warm cornbread (honey butter, anyone?), crusty baguette slices, or even over fluffy white rice for an extra-filling meal. For lighter fare, a simple green salad with zesty vinaigrette balances the robust chili flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Switch things up by serving Guinness Beef Chili inside bread bowls, topping baked potatoes, or ladling it over crispy tortilla chips for your very own chili nachos. If you’re feeling adventurous, stuff it in roasted bell peppers or make loaded chili fries for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Guinness Beef Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors intensify and meld. Cool your chili to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container, and store in the fridge for up to four days. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for busy weeks or meal prep.

Freezing

If you’ve made a big batch (and you’ll be glad you did!), you can easily freeze portions for future cravings. Let the chili cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It’ll keep beautifully for up to three months—just label with the date for easy grab-and-go meals later on.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm your Guinness Beef Chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot and bubbly. Add a splash of broth or water if it looks a bit thick. For single servings, a microwave works great—cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I make Guinness Beef Chili without alcohol?

Absolutely! Simply substitute extra beef broth in place of the Guinness, though you’ll miss out on a bit of malty depth. The chili will still be hearty, delicious, and perfect for the whole family.

Will it work in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first for best flavor, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the beans about 30 minutes before serving so they stay intact.

Can I use different beans or meat?

Definitely—Guinness Beef Chili is ultra-forgiving. Try pinto or cannellini beans, or swap out beef for ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives if you’d like a lighter or vegetarian spin.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Tailor the heat by adding more or less jalapeño, sprinkling in cayenne, or finishing with a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the very end. You’re completely in charge of the warmth!

What if my chili is too thin or thick?

If your chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered until it reaches your preferred texture or mash in some beans. If it’s too thick, just add a splash more broth, tomato juice, or even water, stirring as you go to reach chili perfection.

Final Thoughts

I can never get enough of the deep, cozy comfort that comes with every spoonful of Guinness Beef Chili, and I hope you’ll love it just as much. With its simple steps and knockout flavor, this chili is destined to become a favorite around your table too. Give it a try—you might discover your new chili obsession!