Enjoy a bowl of classic comfort with The Pioneer Woman Chili! This hearty dish features ground beef, kidney beans, and pinto beans simmered in a rich tomato base, seasoned with flavorful spices. Perfect for a cozy meal or game day, this chili is easy to make and customizable to your taste. Top with cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs for a delightful finish!
Ingredients:
2 pounds ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large onion, diced
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Directions:
Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion to the pot with the beef and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for about a minute to allow the spices to bloom and develop their flavors.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Simmer:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and cilantro.
Serving Tips:
Choose Your Toppings:
Enhance the flavor and presentation of your chili with a variety of toppings. Popular options include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Encourage your guests to customize their bowls with their favorites!
Pair with Sides:
Serve the chili alongside warm, crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth. Other great options include tortilla chips, rice, or a simple side salad for added freshness.
Serving Style:
For a fun and casual dining experience, serve the chili in individual bowls with an array of toppings set out buffet-style. This allows everyone to build their perfect bowl.
Garnish for Presentation:
Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of sour cream, or a handful of cheese right before serving to add a pop of color and make it more visually appealing.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration:
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation inside the container.
Freezing:
Chili freezes exceptionally well! Portion out leftovers into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as chili expands when frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
To reheat refrigerated chili, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For frozen chili, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight, or reheat directly from frozen in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if needed.
Flavor Enhancement:
Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. If reheating leftovers, consider adding a little extra seasoning or fresh herbs to brighten up the flavors.
Avoid Overcrowding:
When storing in the refrigerator, avoid overcrowding containers to allow for proper air circulation, which helps maintain freshness.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I make The Pioneer Woman Chili in advance?
Yes! This chili can be made in advance, and it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare the chili, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I substitute for ground beef in this chili recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives to ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian or lower-fat option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly based on the substitute used.
How can I adjust the spice level of the chili?
You can customize the spice level of The Pioneer Woman Chili to suit your taste. To make it milder, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. If you prefer a spicier chili, consider adding more chili powder or incorporating diced jalapeños or hot sauce. Start with small amounts and taste as you go to achieve your desired heat level.
What are some good toppings for chili?
Toppings can elevate your chili and add extra flavor and texture. Popular options include shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), sour cream, diced green onions, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and crushed tortilla chips. Feel free to get creative with your toppings based on your preferences!
Conclusion:
The Pioneer Woman Chili is a go-to recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With its hearty ingredients and easy preparation, this chili is perfect for any occasion. Gather your friends and family, serve up some bowls, and enjoy a cozy meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite toppings to make each bowl unique!
📖 Recipe:
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The Pioneer Woman Chili
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
When the temperature drops and comfort food cravings kick in, there’s nothing quite like a big bowl of chili to warm you up. The Pioneer Woman Chili is a classic, hearty recipe that combines ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices to create a dish perfect for cozy meals. This easy-to-follow recipe not only satisfies your hunger but also fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or just looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this chili is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Mix in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook for about 1 minute to let the spices bloom.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Stir to combine.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes
This chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper or other spices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 360 kcal
