This hearty chili is packed full of beef, beans, and spices that warms you right up! It’s perfect for chilly nights or any time you need comfort food.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the backbone of the chili, giving it a hearty texture. You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative if you prefer. If you’re going plant-based, try using lentils or a meat substitute!
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans bring protein and creaminess to the dish. If you’re not a fan or need a substitute, black beans or chickpeas work well too!
Vegetables: Onions and bell peppers add flavor and texture. Feel free to swap in other veggies like jalapeños for heat or zucchini if you want to mix it up!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are essential for the signature flavor. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or even fresh chili peppers!
How Can You Perfectly Sauté Your Vegetables?
Sautéing the veggies properly enhances the flavor of your chili. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning. You want to soften the onions and peppers, not brown them too quickly.
- Add a pinch of salt when cooking the onions to draw out moisture and help them soften faster.
- Keep stirring to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies are tender and fragrant—this is key to a tasty chili!
The Famous Pioneer Woman Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Beans & Tomatoes:
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
Spices & Broth:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes:
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving
Time Required:
This delicious chili recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30-45 minutes to cook. Overall, you’re looking at about an hour total, including simmering time for all those rich flavors to meld together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat Up the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This is where the magic begins!
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This step adds a rich flavor to your chili!
3. Sauté the Veggies:
Next, toss in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these goodies together for about 5 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant. Your kitchen should smell amazing!
4. Mix in Beans and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. That’s a lot of flavor coming together!
5. Season It Up:
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to combine. This is what makes the chili deliciously spicy!
6. Simmer for Flavor:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for at least 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your chili a taste! Feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed to suit your taste buds.
8. Serve It Up:
Serve your chili hot! Top it with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream if you’d like. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and heartwarming goodness!
This chili is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, and it’s always a hit! Happy cooking!
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Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner substitute. Just keep in mind it may be a bit milder in flavor, so you might want to add a touch more seasoning to boost the taste.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a delicious vegetarian chili, omit the ground beef and substitute it with either lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. You can also add more beans or some chopped vegetables like zucchini and corn for extra texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili a day ahead! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve. The flavors actually improve after sitting!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze chili for long-term storage; just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
