Why Make This Recipe
The Pioneer Woman Chili is a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a hearty and delicious meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or any occasion that calls for comfort food. With its rich flavors, customizable heat levels, and satisfying ingredients, this chili is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s easy to make and can feed a crowd, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chili
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey): The heart of the chili, providing a rich and satisfying base.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: For a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Because every great chili starts with garlic.
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes: These bring the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Smooth and velvety, it ties everything together.
- 2 cups beef broth: Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect consistency.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Creamy and packed with protein, they make the chili extra hearty.
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed: For a lovely textural contrast.
- 2-3 tbsp chili powder: The star spice of the show! Adjust for your preferred heat level.
- 1 tsp cumin: Adds earthy, smoky undertones.
- 1 tsp paprika: For a gentle, smoky warmth.
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional): Perfect if you love an extra kick.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: To enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, avocado slices, tortilla chips (optional but highly recommended).
Directions:
- Prep Your Ingredients: Gather and chop all your vegetables. This makes cooking easier and quicker.
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until they are soft.
- Build the Base: Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes to let the spices bloom.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Let It Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Beans: Stir in the kidney beans and pinto beans. Let the chili cook for another 10-15 minutes.
- Taste and Adjust: Give your chili a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy!: Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chili
The best way to serve Pioneer Woman Chili is hot, straight from the pot. Offer toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, avocado slices, or even tortilla chips on the side so everyone can customize their bowl. It’s perfect with cornbread or over rice as well.
How to Store Pioneer Woman Chili
If you have leftovers, let the chili cool completely. Transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to reheat.
Tips to Make Pioneer Woman Chili
- Adjust the Spice: Feel free to play with the spices. Add more chili powder or cayenne for a spicier kick.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor of your chili.
- Let It Sit: Chili tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat for a deeper flavor.
Variation
You can customize this chili in many ways. Try adding corn for sweetness, diced jalapeños for heat, or even swapping out the beans for black beans. You can also turn it vegetarian by using lentils or extra veggies in place of meat.
FAQs
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables before adding everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Absolutely! Canned beans are convenient and already cooked. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding.
What if I don’t have chili powder?
If you don’t have chili powder, you can make your own using a mix of paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the ratios to your taste!
Pioneer Woman Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef or ground turkey The heart of the chili, providing a rich and satisfying base.
- 1 small onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced For a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Because every great chili starts with garlic.
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes These bring the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce Smooth and velvety, it ties everything together.
- 2 cups beef broth Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect consistency.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed Creamy and packed with protein, they make the chili extra hearty.
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed For a lovely textural contrast.
- 2-3 tbsp chili powder The star spice of the show! Adjust for your preferred heat level.
- 1 tsp cumin Adds earthy, smoky undertones.
- 1 tsp paprika For a gentle, smoky warmth.
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) Perfect if you love an extra kick.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste To enhance and balance all the flavors.
Toppings (optional)
- shredded cheese
- sour cream
- green onions
- avocado slices
- tortilla chips Highly recommended.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather and chop all your vegetables. This makes cooking easier and quicker.
- In a large pot, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until they are soft.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes to let the spices bloom.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the kidney beans and pinto beans. Let the chili cook for another 10-15 minutes.
- Give your chili a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings.