The Pioneer Woman Chili recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices that give it a classic chili taste with a little kick. It’s thick, rich, and perfect for those chilly days when you want something warm and filling. The mix of textures from the tender meat and soft beans makes every bite satisfying.
I love making this chili because it’s straightforward and comes together quickly, but it still tastes like something you simmered for hours. I usually add a little extra spice to suit my taste, and sometimes throw in a handful of corn for a bit of sweetness. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like an old friend—always comforting and dependable.
My favorite way to enjoy the Pioneer Woman Chili is with a big scoop of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream on top, alongside some warm cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping. It’s a crowd-pleaser at family dinners and game nights, and I’ve noticed everyone always asks for seconds. This chili just brings people together in the best way!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives nice fat content for flavor and moisture. If you want leaner chili, try ground turkey or chicken, but it might be a bit less juicy.
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans are classic here. If you prefer, black beans or cannellini beans work well too. Just rinse canned beans to remove excess salt and starch.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste build the chili’s rich base. If fresh tomatoes are in season, you can add some diced fresh ones for extra texture.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give that signature flavor. Feel free to adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level. Mild or extra spicy chili? It’s up to you!
How Do You Make Chili That’s Thick and Full of Flavor?
The secret is slow simmering! After browning the meat and softening onions, adding spices early allows flavors to bloom. Then add liquids and beans and let the chili simmer low and slow for at least an hour.
- Use a heavy pot like a Dutch oven to cook evenly.
- Simmer uncovered a little at the end if you want thicker chili.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning on the bottom.
- Taste and adjust salt and spices near the end for the perfect balance.
Taking your time with simmering helps the chili develop those rich, melded flavors that make it so comforting and delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Dutch oven or heavy pot – it cooks the chili evenly and can handle long simmering without burning.
- Wooden spoon – perfect for stirring the chili without scratching your pot.
- Can opener – to open all the cans quickly and easily.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate spices, so your chili tastes just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still has great flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers or corn for extra color and a touch of sweetness.
- Mix in a chipotle pepper in adobo for a smoky, spicy twist.
- Top with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack for mild creaminess.
How to Make The Pioneer Woman Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (15-ounce) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour of simmering to let the flavors blend nicely. You can cook it longer if you want a thicker chili and deeper flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat before moving on.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and fragrant.
3. Add the Spices:
Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes to help release the spices’ flavors.
4. Combine the Rest:
Pour in the drained and rinsed beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir everything well to combine.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the pot to a simmer. Then lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The chili will thicken, and the flavors will come together perfectly.
6. Final Taste and Serve:
Give the chili a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, and green onions.
This chili is cozy and fulfilling—perfect with cornbread or tortilla chips on the side. Enjoy your delicious homemade Pioneer Woman Chili!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes! This chili actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have melded. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and avoid steaming.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier or Milder?
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference—reduce it or leave it out for mild chili, or add extra for more kick. You can also add fresh chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen chili overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
