If you’re craving a hearty, comforting bowl of chili that ticks all the boxes for rich flavor, satisfying texture, and just the right amount of spice, the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe is your new best friend. This beloved recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients like tender ground beef, tender beans, and a luscious tomato base, all simmered to perfection with a signature blend of spices. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this chili is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas and your heart with pure comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this recipe so fantastic is how straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each plays a crucial role in building the deep, layered flavors and hearty texture that define the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe.
- 2 pounds ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty foundation that’s juicy and flavorful.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and a hearty bite with a subtle sweetness.
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Brings a slightly earthy flavor and soft texture to the chili.
- 1 large onion, diced: Offers a sweet, aromatic base that enhances all the other flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chili with a warm, savory depth.
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes: Delivers bright acidity and chunky texture to the mix.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich tomato base for the chili.
- 1/4 cup tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and enhances the meaty taste of the chili.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The heart of the seasoning, providing classic chili spice and warmth.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Adds a nutty, earthy undertone that complements the beef and beans.
- 1 teaspoon oregano: Gives a herbal, slightly peppery note that balances the spices.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together and enhancing them.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who crave a little extra kick and lively brightness.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s beautifully browned and no pink remains. This step develops that crave-worthy meaty flavor. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep your chili rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and sauté for about five minutes until they become soft, translucent, and fragrant. Right after, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute to release those wonderful aromatic oils that will make the chili truly irresistible.
Step 3: Bloom the Spices
Now, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you want a little extra heat. Stir everything together and cook for about a minute. This step, called blooming, really intensifies the spices, creating layers of flavor that dance on your palate.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and both the kidney and pinto beans. Give everything a good stir to combine so each bite is packed with hearty goodness and robust, tangy tomato notes.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring your chili up to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 30 to 45 minutes. During this time, those flavors meld beautifully, and the chili thickens into the perfect bowl of comfort food.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give your chili a taste and adjust the seasoning as you like. Maybe a little more salt or a pinch of cayenne to satisfy your spice cravings. Serve your Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe piping hot and get ready for a meal that’s pure joy.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The best chili deserves the best garnishes. Grab shredded cheddar cheese, freshly chopped green onions, a dollop of cool sour cream, or even some crunchy tortilla chips to sprinkle on top. These little extras add texture and bring extra layers of flavor that make every mouthful exciting.
Side Dishes
For sides, think simple but delicious. Crusty cornbread is a classic pairing that soaks up the rich sauce wonderfully. A fresh green salad can add lightness and crunch, balancing out the hearty chili. You could even serve it over rice or with warm flour tortillas for a fun twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation at your next get-together, consider serving the chili in small bread bowls or mini cast-iron skillets. Setting up a chili bar with multiple toppings lets everyone customize their own, making it interactive and party-ready. No matter how you serve it, the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe shines every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili is a fantastic make-ahead meal because the flavors only improve after resting. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheated, it tastes almost like it was freshly made, creating less stress for your busy week.
Freezing
If you want to save it for even longer, the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick, comforting meal any time.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if it thickened up in the fridge. Alternatively, microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl in one-minute increments, stirring in between to make sure it heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this chili. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and consider adding a bit more seasoning to compensate for the milder flavor.
Is this chili spicy?
The classic Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe has a gentle warmth from chili powder and cumin, but if you prefer more heat, the optional cayenne pepper packs a subtle punch. You can always adjust the spice to your taste!
Can I skip the beans?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of beans, you can omit them entirely or replace them with extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn. The chili will still be hearty and flavorful.
How long does it take to make this chili?
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 55 minutes, including prep and simmering time. It’s a perfect dish for a weeknight that feels special without being complicated.
What are the best toppings for Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe?
Classic toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, and tortilla chips. You can also try avocado slices, jalapeños for extra heat, or a squeeze of fresh lime for brightness.
Final Thoughts
Once you try the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe, it’s easy to see why it’s such a favorite. It’s warm, flavorful, and downright comforting in the best way possible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a solo night in, this chili promises to become a go-to that you’ll want to make over and over. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor a bowl full of cozy deliciousness!
Print
Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pioneer Woman Chili is a hearty and flavorful classic chili recipe made with ground beef, kidney and pinto beans, tomatoes, and a blend of chili spices. Perfectly seasoned and simmered to perfection, it makes a comforting meal ideal for chilly days or casual gatherings. Simple to prepare in one pot, this chili delivers rich, deep flavors with a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Meat and Beans
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Ingredients
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
Liquids and Broth
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices
- 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
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the chili from being greasy.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion to the pot with the browned beef and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, stirring often to avoid burning.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to coat the meat and onions with the spices, letting them cook for about 1 minute to bloom and deepen their flavors.
- Add Tomato and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Add the drained kidney beans and pinto beans. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer gently for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to blend the flavors.
- Adjust and Serve: After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or spices according to your preference. Serve the chili hot with your choice of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
- For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Optional toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onions, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro.
- Leftover chili stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
