Chili Verde Recipe with Beef

What Makes This Beef Chili Verde So Special?

If you love bold, fresh flavors with a touch of heat, then this beef chili verde recipe is for you. Unlike traditional red chili recipes, chili verde is all about vibrant green ingredients — mainly roasted tomatillos and green chilies — that create a tangy, slightly spicy sauce that beautifully complements tender chunks of beef.

This Mexican-inspired classic is deeply comforting but also refreshingly bright. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful dinner that balances savory, spicy, and zesty notes, all while being hearty enough to satisfy.

Whether you’re hosting a Mexican-themed dinner, craving a twist on your usual chili, or wanting to explore authentic flavors from the Southwest, this beef chili verde will quickly become a favorite.

What is Chili Verde?

Chili verde, or “green chili,” traditionally features pork simmered in a green sauce made from tomatillos, green chilies, onions, garlic, and cilantro. This version uses beef instead for a richer, heartier meal while keeping the vibrant flavors intact. The sauce is fresh and tangy, thanks to the roasted tomatillos, and the heat level can be adjusted with various green chili peppers such as poblano, Anaheim, or jalapeño.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Beef

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil

For the Verde Sauce

• 10-12 medium tomatillos, husked and rinsed

• 3-4 poblano peppers (or Anaheim peppers for milder heat)

• 2 jalapeños, seeds removed for less heat (optional)

• 1 large white onion, quartered

• 4 cloves garlic, peeled

• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth

• Juice of 1 lime

Optional Garnishes & Serving

• Fresh cilantro leaves

• Lime wedges

• Warm corn or flour tortillas

• Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice

• Diced avocado or sliced radishes

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Beef Chili Verde

Step 1: Roast the Tomatillos and Peppers

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, spread the tomatillos, poblano peppers, jalapeños, and quartered onion. Roast for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the tomatillos and peppers are charred and softened. This roasting step brings out the smoky, tangy flavor essential to authentic chili verde.

Step 2: Blend the Verde Sauce

Once roasted and cooled slightly, transfer the tomatillos, peppers, onion, garlic, and cilantro to a blender. Add cumin, oregano, and lime juice. Blend until smooth, adding a little beef broth to help blend if needed.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Season the beef cubes generously with salt and black pepper. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Brown all sides until you get a nice caramelized crust. Remove beef and set aside.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili Verde

Pour the verde sauce into the pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Add the browned beef back to the pot along with the remaining beef broth. Stir well, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Final Adjustments and Serving

Taste and adjust salt and lime juice to brighten the flavors. If the chili verde is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Tips for the Best Beef Chili Verde

• Choose the right cut of beef: Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling, which becomes tender and flavorful.

• Roast veggies for flavor: Don’t skip roasting the tomatillos and peppers; it’s key to authentic flavor.

• Control the heat: Remove seeds from peppers for milder heat or leave some in for a spicier kick.

• Simmer low and slow: Patience in simmering ensures the beef is tender and the sauce rich.

• Serve traditionally: Warm tortillas and a squeeze of fresh lime really elevate this dish.

Nutrition Highlights

This beef chili verde recipe offers:

• High protein: Rich in muscle-building protein from beef.

• Vitamins: Tomatillos provide vitamin C and antioxidants.

• Minerals: Cilantro and peppers add potassium and iron.

• Lower fat: Compared to red chili with ground beef, cubed chuck roast cooked slowly renders less fat into the sauce.

• No added sugars or alcohol: Clean eating suitable for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between chili verde and regular chili?

Chili verde features a tangy green sauce made from tomatillos and green chilies, while regular chili usually has a tomato-based red sauce with red chilies.

Can I use other types of beef?

Yes! You can use stew meat, brisket, or even ground beef, though chuck roast is preferred for its tenderness after slow cooking.

How spicy is this chili verde?

The heat level depends on your choice of peppers. Using poblano and deseeded jalapeños keeps it mild-to-medium, but leave seeds for more heat.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Definitely. Brown the beef first, blend the sauce, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What do I serve with chili verde?

Traditionally, serve with warm tortillas, Mexican rice, or even simple white rice. Toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime enhance the experience.

Variations and Serving Ideas

• Add potatoes: Toss in diced potatoes halfway through cooking for a heartier stew.

• Make it spicy: Include serrano peppers or chipotle for smokier heat.

• Vegetarian twist: Replace beef with roasted cauliflower or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

• Toppings bar: Offer diced onions, jalapeños, shredded cheese, and sour cream on the side.

Storage and Leftover Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

• Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and reheat gently.

• The flavors often deepen after a day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Conclusion: Enjoy Authentic Mexican-Inspired Beef Chili Verde at Home

This beef chili verde recipe perfectly captures the bright, bold flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with the added richness of tender beef. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress your family or guests.

Whether you’re making a festive dinner or cozying up on a chilly night, this chili verde brings warmth and zest to your table. Give this recipe a try and discover why chili verde is a beloved classic!