This hearty chili is packed with delicious flavors and wholesome ingredients like ground beef, beans, and tomatoes. It’s the perfect dish for chilly nights!
What makes this chili special is how easy it is to whip up a big batch. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers. You can’t go wrong!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe uses 2 pounds of ground beef for a hearty chili. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. Extra firm tofu works well for a vegetarian version too!
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans add creaminess and fiber. If you’re low on these, feel free to mix in black beans or chickpeas. Canned beans save time, but dried beans can be cooked ahead for a fresher taste.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are crucial for flavor. For spiciness, cayenne pepper is optional. You could use a pre-packaged chili seasoning if you have it on hand, but adjust as it can be saltier.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce provide the base. If you’re out, crushed tomatoes or even tomato paste (thinned with water) can work well. Just keep an eye on the consistency!
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Vegetables for Chili?
Sautéing the onions and peppers is a key step in building flavor for your chili. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your olive oil in the pot until shimmering but not smoking.
- Add the diced onions first. Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Then, add the green bell pepper and garlic. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 more minutes. This releases natural sweetness and creates a great base.
- Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Getting these vegetables just right will elevate the flavor of your chili!
How to Make The Famous Pioneer Woman Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Base:
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- For Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For Liquid:
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- For Topping:
- Shredded cheddar cheese for topping
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 to 45 minutes to cook. So, in total, you will need approximately 1 hour to make and enjoy your hearty chili. It’s a perfect option for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
First, heat your olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s browned and no longer pink inside. If there’s too much fat, feel free to drain some off, but a little adds flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook these ingredients, stirring occasionally, until they soften—about 5 minutes. This step creates a flavorful base for your chili.
3. Add the Spices:
Now, sprinkle in your chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to toast the spices, which enhances their flavor.
4. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined. Get excited—the aroma is about to be amazing!
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring your chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully and the chili to thicken. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick!
6. Final Adjustments:
After simmering, taste your chili. You can adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed. This is your chance to make it just right for your taste!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chili hot! Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of chopped green onions. Enjoy every delicious bite of your rich, flavorful Pioneer Woman Chili!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute for beef. Just follow the same cooking steps, and you’ll have a lighter version of this chili without sacrificing flavor.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or even a mix of lentils and chopped veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and protein.
How to Store Leftover Chili?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer!
What Can I Serve With Chili?
This chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice. You can also serve it with a simple salad for a complete meal!
