This hearty chili is packed with flavor and easy to make. With ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and plenty of spices, it warms you from the inside out!
Honestly, this chili is a crowd-pleaser! I often bring leftovers to work, and they disappear fast. Who can resist a good bowl of chili on a chilly day? 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe uses 2 pounds of ground beef for a hearty texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute as a great alternative!
Beans: The kidney and pinto beans add creaminess and fiber. If you’re not a fan, black beans or chickpeas are good substitutes. You can also skip the beans for a meatier chili!
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These give the chili a nice kick. If you prefer less heat, you could use plain diced tomatoes or fire-roasted tomatoes instead, adding bell pepper or jalapeño for extra flavor.
Chili Powder and Spices: Chili powder is key for flavor. You can mix your own spices using paprika, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne if you’re out of chili powder. Just taste as you go!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Chili?
The magic of great chili lies in the building of flavors! Begin by browning the ground beef well to develop richness. The veggies then add sweetness, so don’t rush them. Cook them until soft before adding spices to let their flavors bloom.
- Always season after adding spices; taste and adjust as you go.
- Let it simmer on low heat for at least 30-40 minutes so everything melds beautifully.
- If you have time, allowing it to chill in the fridge overnight enhances the flavor even more!
The Famous Pioneer Woman Chili
Ingredients:
- For the Chili:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- For Serving:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped fresh chives or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili will take about 10 minutes to prepare and then 30-40 minutes to simmer. All in all, you’ll need roughly 50 minutes for a delicious, hearty meal that warms you up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef and cook it over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally until it’s no longer pink. If you see any excess fat, carefully drain it off to keep your chili from being too greasy.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring from time to time, until the veggies are softened and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the Spices:
Next, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let this cook for about 1 minute to let the flavors awaken; the aroma will be wonderful!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth (or water). Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.
5. Simmer:
Bring the chili mixture to a gentle simmer and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially with a lid, letting it simmer for at least 30-40 minutes. This will allow all those flavors to meld beautifully while you occasionally stir.
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, give the chili a taste and adjust any seasoning you feel necessary. If you want it spicier, add a little more cayenne. If it needs salt, go ahead and add it!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your chili is perfectly seasoned, serve it hot in bowls. Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions for extra flavor.
Enjoy this rich, comforting chili that’s perfect for chilly evenings or game day! 🍲
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Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that it may produce a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and use a mix of beans (like black beans and chickpeas) along with diced bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for added texture and flavor. You can also add vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Adjust the Spiciness Level?
Yes, you can definitely adjust the spiciness! Use less cayenne pepper for a milder chili or add more if you like it spicy. Fresh jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce can also add heat as desired.
