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This flank steak chili is a one-pot comfort meal full of chopped steak, bold spices, and classic chili flavor. It’s perfect with tortilla chips, on top of a potato, or with cornbread.
Hearty Flank Steak Chili (30 Minute Recipe)
If you need a dinner that is both satisfying and easy to make, this steak chili is it. It’s the kind of meal that everyone talks about. The chopped steak is a nice switch from the typical ground beef, and the seasonings give it a savory flavor that is irresistible. When the weather starts to cool down, this is my go-to recipe, and once you’ve made it, it will become your new family favorite too.
Ingredients
Below is everything you need to make this chili, along with a few substitution recommendations.
- 1 lb chopped flank steak – A hearty flavor and nice texture. Stew meat would work as an alternative, but it will have a different flavor profile.
- 1 small yellow onion – Adds a mild sweetness. Use a white onion as a substitute, but it will have a sharper taste.
- 1 large green bell pepper – You can use a red or yellow bell pepper.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil – Adds a richness to the dish while sauteing the veggies. You can use avocado or canola oil.
- 1 ½ Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Adds a slightly tangy flavor.
- 28-oz can of crushed tomatoes – Creates the base of the chili. Use diced tomatoes as a substitute.
- 16-oz can of red kidney beans – An additional source of protein. You can substitute black or pinto beans.
- 1 cup beef broth – Enhances the beefy flavor. Use chicken broth if you do not have beef broth.
- 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard – The tang of the mustard balances the richness of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon cumin – Adds an earthy, warm flavor.
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder – Use 2-3 minced garlic cloves as an alternative.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder – Gives a mild heat to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Italian seasoning or dried thyme will have a similar effect as the oregano.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon pepper – Gives a bit of heat to the chili.
How To Make Steak Chili
Brown chopped steak, sauté with onion and pepper, stir in spices, then add tomatoes, beans, and broth. Simmer briefly, then serve with toppings. Let me show you how:
- In a large pot, brown the chopped steak over high heat until seared on all sides.
- Reduce the heat to medium-high, add the onion, green pepper, and olive oil. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and brown.
- Add in the Worcestershire sauce, mustard, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and oregano. Stir and cook for 2 to 4 minutes to let the spices bloom.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for 5 minutes until everything is heated through and flavors meld.
- Remove from the stove. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes.
Essential Recipe Tips
- Cut the flank steak into even, bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking and tenderness.
- Let the spices cook briefly before adding liquids to deepen their flavor.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning right before serving, since chili flavor can intensify as it sits.
Make It A Meal
Whip up some delicious corn muffins to serve alongside this chili. Or use it to make these chili cheese tots.
Flank Steak Chili
Equipment
- Large Pot
- wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp Knife
- Measuring Spoons/Cups
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes
- 16 oz can of red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
GARNISHES:
- shredded cheese
- cornbread
- tortilla chips
- sour cream
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the steak on high heat.
- Turn down to medium-high, add the onion, pepper, and olive oil, and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onions and peppers start to brown.
- Sprinkle the Worcestershire sauce, mustard, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and oregano over the mixture, and cook for 2-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium, add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, salt, and pepper, and cook for 5 minutes.*
- Remove from the stove, sprinkle with cheese, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Flank Steak Chili FAQs
What type of steak works best?
Flank, sirloin, or chuck steak are great options. Sirloin is lean and tender, flank has good beefy flavor, and chuck is well-marbled for extra richness.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the steak first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
How can I make it spicier?
Add extra chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.
Can I skip the beans?
Yes, add an extra half cup of steak or more vegetables like zucchini or corn to bulk it up.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, as written, it is gluten-free. Just make sure your Worcestershire sauce and broth are certified gluten-free.
How can I thicken the chili?
Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid, or mash some of the beans against the side of the pot for a thicker texture.
What if my chili is too thick?
Add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
