18 Spicy Chili Colorado Recipes with Bold Flavors

When it comes to bold and spicy flavors, Chili Colorado is a staple dish that never fails to impress. This hearty, slow-cooked stew originated in Mexico, where it’s often served at family gatherings and celebrations. With its rich flavor profile, which combines tender beef or pork with a medley of spices, chilies, and tomatoes, Chili Colorado has become a beloved favorite around the world.

In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and excitement of Chili Colorado. From classic beef-based stews to vegetarian twists and creative variations, these recipes will inspire you to experiment with new flavors and ingredients in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for a quick and easy meal solution, we’ve got you covered.

Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these 18 Spicy Chili Colorado Recipes with Bold Flavors!

Slow Cooker Chili Colorado with Beef Chuck

This classic chili recipe is a staple of American cuisine, and our version features tender beef chuck cooked to perfection in a rich, spicy tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a chilly winter evening or a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef cubes in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Add browned beef, chili powder, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Authentic Mexican Chili Colorado con Carne

Authentic Mexican Chili Colorado con Carne Recipe

This rich and flavorful chili recipe is a staple of Mexican cuisine, made with tender beef, aromatic spices, and a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. This classic dish is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the true flavors of Mexico.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Easy Chili Colorado with Dried Guajillo Chiles

Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this simple and satisfying chili recipe, infused with the deep, slightly sweet heat of dried guajillo chiles.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add guajillo chiles, water, tomato paste, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Chili Colorado Burritos with Melted Cheese

This recipe combines tender beef strips cooked in a rich chili Colorado sauce with tender beans, wrapped in a warm flour tortilla and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch on-the-go.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef strips (such as flank steak or skirt steak)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 cup water
– 6 flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, salsa

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the beef strips over medium-high heat until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and water to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add cooked beef back into the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the beef mixture onto each tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in sides and roll into a burrito shape.
8. Cook in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Chili Colorado Tacos with Fresh Cilantro

Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and spicy twist on traditional tacos. This recipe combines the bold flavors of chili con carne with the tanginess of crema, all wrapped up in a crispy corn tortilla.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chili con carne
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili con carne, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef mixture onto a warmed tortilla and topping with crema, if desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Chili Colorado Enchiladas with Homemade Sauce

Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with these tender enchiladas smothered in a rich, homemade Chili Colorado sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 pound beef brisket or flank steak, cooked and shredded
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing tortillas
– Homemade Chili Colorado Sauce (see below)

Homemade Chili Colorado Sauce:

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3-4 dried arbol chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
3. Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Brush tortillas with oil and fill with shredded beef mixture.
5. Roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour Homemade Chili Colorado Sauce over the enchiladas.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and hot.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Chili Colorado Stuffed Peppers with Rice

This recipe combines the rich flavors of Chili Colorado with the convenience of stuffed peppers, all wrapped up in a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing main course.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked rice, then top with the beef mixture and diced tomatoes.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes

One-Pot Chili Colorado with Potatoes

This rich and flavorful chili is a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion. With the addition of potatoes, it’s a satisfying meal that’s sure to warm your belly and your heart.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup beef broth

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cubed potatoes, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Chili Colorado Quesadillas with Oaxaca Cheese

Elevate your snack game with this flavorful fusion of Mexican and Southwestern cuisines. Chili Colorado Quesadillas with Oaxaca Cheese are a delicious twist on traditional quesadillas.

Ingredients:
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese (or Monterey Jack or Cheddar as substitute)
– 1/2 cup Chili Colorado sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together Oaxaca cheese and Chili Colorado sauce until well combined.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (4-6 quesadillas)

Chili Colorado Nachos with Avocado Crema

Elevate your nacho game with these bold and flavorful Chili Colorado Nachos, topped with a creamy avocado crema. Perfect for game day or a casual gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 (16 oz) bag tortilla chips
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Lime wedges (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Combine cooked beef mixture with diced tomatoes and stir.
5. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet and top with beef mixture, cheese, and cilantro.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Meanwhile, mix diced avocado with lime juice (if using) to prevent browning.
8. Serve nachos hot with Avocado Crema on top.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Chili Colorado Tamales with Masa Dough

Experience the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with this recipe for Chili Colorado Tamales, wrapped in tender masa dough. This classic dish is perfect for a family gathering or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups masa harina
– 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 pounds beef brisket or shank, cooked and shredded
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Corn husks for wrapping

Instructions:

1. Combine masa harina and lard in a large mixing bowl. Gradually add warm water, kneading until smooth and pliable.
2. Divide dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
3. Place a spoonful of Chili Colorado filling (beef, tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper) in the center of each dough ball.
4. Fold dough over filling to form a tamale shape, folding sides together and tucking in the top.
5. Wrap in corn husks and steam for 1-2 hours, or until masa is tender.

Cooking Time: 1-2 hours

Chili Colorado Tostadas with Refried Beans

A flavorful and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish, Chili Colorado Tostadas with Refried Beans combines tender beef, rich chili, creamy refried beans, and crispy tostada shells.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 tostada shells
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth; simmer 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
5. Warm tostada shells according to package instructions.
6. Spoon refried beans onto each shell, followed by a spoonful of Chili Colorado sauce.
7. Top with desired toppings and serve.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Chili Colorado Sopes with Cotija Cheese

Sopes are a traditional Mexican dish that originated in the central region of Mexico, particularly in the city of Puebla. These thick, crispy tortillas topped with spicy chili, creamy sour cream, and tangy Cotija cheese are a match made in heaven.

Ingredients:

– 8 sopes (or 4-6 corn tortillas)
– 1 pound beef brisket or short ribs, cooked and shredded
– 2 cups Chili Colorado (red chili sauce) recipe (see below)
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the sopes according to package instructions or by grilling them until crispy.
3. Warm the Chili Colorado sauce over low heat.
4. Assemble the sopes by spreading a spoonful of chili on each, followed by a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of Cotija cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Chili Colorado Soup with Crispy Tortilla Strips

Warm up on a chilly day with this hearty Chili Colorado Soup, packed with tender beef, rich flavors, and a satisfying crunch from crispy tortilla strips.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add beef; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until beef is tender.
4. Meanwhile, fry tortilla strips in hot oil until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve soup with crispy tortilla strips, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro (if using). Enjoy!

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Chili Colorado Sliders with Buttery Rolls

Elevate your game day or casual gathering with these flavorful Chili Colorado Sliders served on soft, buttery rolls. A twist on traditional sliders, the addition of tender beef in a rich chili sauce and melted cheese will be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Chili Colorado sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 slices American cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form ground beef into small patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns by placing them on the grill for 30 seconds.
4. Assemble sliders by topping each patty with a slice of cheese and spooning Chili Colorado sauce over the top.
5. Place a buttered bun on top of each slider.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Chili Colorado Pizza with Jalapeño Slices

Elevate your pizza game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of chili con carne with the spiciness of jalapeños.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup Chili Colorado (ground beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, oregano)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 8-10 slices jalapeño peppers
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread the Chili Colorado evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the chili.
5. Arrange jalapeño slices on top of the pizza in a pattern or scattered throughout.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Chili Colorado Empanadas with Flaky Crust

These empanadas combine the rich flavors of Chili Colorado with a flaky crust, perfect for a snack or dinner. This recipe is easy to make and can be enjoyed by both kids and adults.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground beef
+ 1 medium onion, finely chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
+ 1 teaspoon chili powder
+ Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add shortening and warm water; mix until dough forms.
3. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
5. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each square.
6. Fold dough over filling, forming a triangle or cylinder shape; press edges together with a fork.
7. Cook empanadas in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total

Chili Colorado Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

Experience the bold flavors of the Southwest with this unique recipe that combines tender sweet potatoes with a spicy and savory Chili Colorado filling.

Ingredients:

– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving (optional)
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and water. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened slightly.
6. Slice sweet potatoes open and top each with Chili Colorado filling. Serve with shredded cheese and cilantro, if desired.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Summary

Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 bold and delicious Chili Colorado recipes! From slow cooker classics to creative twists, we’ve got you covered. Discover a variety of dishes that showcase the rich flavors of this iconic Mexican stew, from tacos and burritos to empanadas and stuffed peppers. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or fresh and flavorful, there’s a Chili Colorado recipe here to satisfy your cravings.