The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe is a hearty, comforting dish packed with ground beef, rich tomatoes, beans, and a perfect blend of spices that bring warmth and flavor to every bite. It’s the kind of chili that’s thick and satisfying, with a little bit of a kick but still super approachable for all tastes.
I love making this chili because it’s really straightforward—just dump everything in the pot and let it simmer while you get other things done. Plus, it fills the house with that amazing smell of spices and slow-cooked goodness. I always find myself sneaking a taste right from the pot, and it never disappoints!
My favorite way to enjoy this chili is piled high with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a handful of crunchy tortilla chips or cornbread on the side. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers where everyone can spoon out their favorite toppings. I think that’s what makes this recipe so special—it’s simple, satisfying, and always hits the spot.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star protein for hearty chili. Choose lean beef to reduce fat, or swap with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Tomatoes: The diced tomatoes and tomato sauce give the chili its rich, tangy base. Canned tomatoes work well year-round, but fresh tomatoes can be used when in season.
Beans: Kidney beans are classic in chili. You can substitute with black beans, pinto beans, or a chili bean mix for variety or preference.
Bell Pepper and Onion: These add texture and mild sweetness. You can vary pepper color or use extra onions if preferred. Freshness here makes a difference.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin create the warm, earthy flavor. Adjust the amount based on how spicy or mild you like your chili. Red pepper flakes add heat but can be left out for milder taste.
How Can I Make the Best Flavors in My Chili?
Layering flavors is key in this recipe. Here’s how:
- First, brown the ground beef well. This caramelizes the meat and adds depth.
- Then cook onions and peppers until soft to bring out their sweetness.
- Add garlic and spices last in this step to bloom their flavors in the fat.
- Simmer the chili slowly for at least 45 minutes, letting flavors meld and thicken.
Don’t rush simmering—it makes the chili taste rich and balanced. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check seasoning at the end to get the perfect taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – great for even heating and simmering the chili slowly without burning.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – perfect for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Can opener – needed to open the canned tomatoes, beans, and sauce easily.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get your spices, liquids, and beans just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner chili that’s still full of flavor.
- Add corn kernels for a touch of sweetness and extra texture.
- Mix in some dark chocolate or cocoa powder to deepen the chili’s richness subtly.
- Top your chili with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or Monterey Jack for creaminess.
How to Make The Pioneer Woman Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can peeled and diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 2 (16-ounce) cans red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving
- Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and brown the meat and veggies, plus about 45 minutes to 1 hour to simmer and let the flavors blend together. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked. Use a spoon to break it into small pieces while it cooks. Drain any extra fat.
2. Add Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are soft and tender.
3. Add Garlic and Spices:
Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Cook for about 1 minute to let the spices release their flavor.
4. Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Liquids:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, water, and rinsed kidney beans. Stir everything well to combine.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring every now and then to stop it from sticking. The chili will thicken and flavors will come together beautifully.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give the chili a taste and add more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
7. Serve:
Ladle the hot chili into bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions or cilantro, and a scoop of sour cream if you like. Serve with your favorite sides like cornbread or tortilla chips. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute. Just cook it the same way, but watch closely as it tends to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Chili actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Let the chili cool completely, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! Leave out or reduce the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder chili. To make it spicier, add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh diced jalapeños to taste.
