Description
The Pioneer Woman Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring ground beef, kidney and pinto beans, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices simmered together to create a comforting meal perfect for any day. This classic chili recipe is easy to make and delivers a rich, satisfying taste with just the right amount of kick.
Ingredients
Scale
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 Base
- 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 Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until there is no pink left. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Add Spices: Mix in the chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to bloom the spices and enhance their flavors.
- Combine Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Add the drained and rinsed kidney and pinto beans. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions.
- To make the chili thicker, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
