The Pioneer Woman Chili

This hearty and comforting chili is packed with perfectly seasoned ground beef, beans, and a rich blend of spices. Whether made on the stovetop, in a Crock Pot, or an Instant Pot, this chili is a versatile, easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion.

PIN FOR LATER!PIN FOR LATER!

Why You’ll Love This Chili

• Bold and hearty flavor – A balanced blend of chili powder, cumin, and oregano enhances the taste.
• Thick and satisfying – Masa harina gives it the perfect texture.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level and consistency to your preference.
• Great for meal prep – Freezes well and tastes even better the next day.
• Multiple cooking methods – Choose from stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot.

---

Preparation and Tools Needed

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot – For stovetop cooking.
• Crock Pot (slow cooker) – For an effortless, hands-off approach.
• Instant Pot – For a quick and easy pressure-cooked version.
• Wooden spoon – To stir and mix ingredients efficiently.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise seasoning and liquid measurements.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping garlic and preparing garnishes.

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh garlic for a stronger, more aromatic flavor.
• Drain excess grease from the beef to avoid an oily texture.
• Adjust spice levels by increasing or reducing cayenne pepper.
• Masa harina thickens the chili while adding a subtle corn flavor—do not skip it.

---

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
• 2 cloves garlic, diced
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ cup masa harina (white or yellow)
• 15 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 15 ounces pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• (For Instant Pot version only) 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, with juice

Optional Garnishes

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Lime wedges
• Sour cream
• Tortilla chips or Fritos
• Diced green onions

---

How to Make Pioneer Woman Chili

Stovetop Method

1. Cook the Ground Beef
   • In a large pot over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned.
   • Drain any excess grease.
2. Add Garlic and Tomato Sauce
   • Stir in the diced garlic and tomato sauce.
   • Cook for about one minute until fragrant.
3. Season the Chili
   • Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper.
   • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for one hour, stirring occasionally.
   • If the chili becomes too thick, add ½ cup of water.
4. Thicken with Masa Harina
   • In a small bowl, mix masa harina with ½ cup of water.
   • Stir into the chili and adjust consistency as needed.
5. Add Beans and Simmer
   • Stir in kidney and pinto beans and cook for 10 more minutes.
6. Serve
   • Ladle into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, lime wedges, and tortilla chips.

---

Crock Pot (Slow Cooker) Method

1. Brown the Beef
   • In a pan (or stove-safe Crock Pot insert), cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
   • Drain the grease.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
   • Add garlic and tomato sauce, cooking for one minute.
   • Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add Masa Harina and Beans
   • Mix masa harina with ½ cup of water, then stir into the chili.
   • Add beans and mix gently to combine.
4. Cook in the Crock Pot
   • Cover and cook on low for at least four hours or all day if desired.
   • Adjust consistency with additional masa or water if needed.
5. Serve
   • Ladle into bowls and add your favorite garnishes.

---

Instant Pot Method

1. Brown the Beef
   • Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and cook the ground beef until browned.
   • Drain the grease.
2. Add Garlic and Spices
   • Stir in garlic, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper.
3. Thicken and Add Tomatoes(Instant Pot Only)
   • Mix masa harina with ½ cup of water and stir it into the chili.
   • Add diced tomatoes with their juice and the beans.
4. Pressure Cook
   • Secure the lid and close the pressure valve.
   • Set the Instant Pot to the Chili/Beans setting and cook for 20 minutes.
5. Release Steam and Adjust Consistency
   • Use the quick-release valve or let pressure release naturally.
   • If needed, adjust thickness with more masa harina or water.
6. Serve
   • Spoon into bowls and garnish with cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Style – Serve in a bowl topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, and crushed tortilla chips.
• Chili Cheese Fries – Pour over crispy French fries and top with melted cheese.
• Chili Dogs – Spoon over grilled hot dogs in buns and garnish with chopped onions and mustard.
• Chili Mac – Mix with cooked macaroni and top with extra cheese for a hearty meal.
• Over Rice – Serve over white or brown rice for added texture and heartiness.
• Inside a Bread Bowl – Hollow out a round loaf of bread and fill it with chili for a rustic presentation.
• With Cornbread – Pair with warm cornbread for a classic Southern touch.
• Taco-Style – Spoon into taco shells or over nachos for a Tex-Mex twist.

---

PIN FOR LATER!

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

1. Skipping the Simmering Time

• Letting chili simmer for at least an hour enhances the depth of flavor.
• If using an Instant Pot, allow it to naturally release pressure for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.

2. Not Draining the Grease

• Failing to drain excess fat from the ground beef can make the chili too oily.
• Use 80% lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and texture.

3. Overcooking the Beans

• Adding beans too early in the cooking process can cause them to become mushy.
• Stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

4. Using the Wrong Thickener

• Masa harina adds a unique corn flavor and helps thicken the chili.
• Avoid using too much cornstarch, which can alter the texture.

5. Not Adjusting the Spice Level

• Taste and adjust the seasoning as the chili cooks.
• If it is too spicy, add a splash of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat.

6. Forgetting the Garnishes

• Toppings like shredded cheese, green onions, and tortilla chips add both flavor and texture.
• Experiment with fresh avocado slices, jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra variety.

7. Rushing the Cooking Process

• Chili develops richer flavors over time.
• If possible, make it a day ahead and reheat for even better taste.

---

Side Dish Recommendations

Pairing chili with the right side dish can enhance the overall meal. Here are eight side dish ideas to complement this recipe.

1. Cornbread

A slightly sweet and buttery cornbread is a perfect match for chili, soaking up the flavors and adding a soft, crumbly texture.

2. Baked Potatoes

Serve the chili over baked potatoes, topping with sour cream, cheese, and green onions for a satisfying meal.

3. Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is an excellent way to scoop up every bite of chili.

4. Coleslaw

A tangy, crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chili.

5. Mexican Rice

A side of seasoned Mexican-style rice adds extra depth and complements the flavors of the chili.

6. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A warm, cheesy sandwich pairs perfectly with a bowl of chili, adding comfort and heartiness.

7. Tortilla Chips with Guacamole

Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh guacamole offer a light, refreshing side that balances the spiciness of the chili.

8. Roasted Vegetables

A side of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots brings a sweet and smoky contrast to the dish.

---

PIN FOR LATER!

Recipe Tips for the Best Chili

1. Let the Flavors Develop

• Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
• If possible, make it ahead of time and reheat before serving.

2. Adjust the Thickness

• For a thicker chili, add an extra tablespoon of masa harina mixed with water.
• If it becomes too thick, stir in small amounts of broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.

3. Enhance the Flavor with Add-Ins

• A splash of lime juice can brighten up the dish.
• A pinch of cinnamon or a square of dark chocolate adds depth and complexity.
• A small amount of brown sugar can balance acidity from the tomatoes.

4. Use the Right Ground Meat

• 80% lean ground beef is ideal for rich flavor and the right amount of fat.
• For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken.

5. Make it Spicier or Milder

• Increase heat by adding more cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
• Tone down the spice by adding sour cream, cheese, or extra beans.

---

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

• Chili freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bags for portioned servings.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.
• Slow Cooker: Reheat on low for a few hours for an easy hands-off method.

---

PIN FOR LATER!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Chili Without Beans?

Yes. Simply omit the beans or replace them with extra meat or vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

2. What Can I Use Instead of Masa Harina?

If masa harina is unavailable, substitute with:

• Cornmeal (for a similar texture)
• Flour (as a thickener, but without the corn flavor)
• A cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water)

3. Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?

Yes. Chili often tastes better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

4. How Can I Make It More Kid-Friendly?

• Reduce or omit cayenne pepper for a milder version.
• Serve with mild toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips.

5. Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?

Yes. Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe. Consider adding a little olive oil while cooking to prevent dryness.

6. Why Does My Chili Taste Too Acidic?

• Tomato-based chili can sometimes be too acidic.
• Add a pinch of sugar, honey, or a splash of heavy cream to balance the acidity.

7. Can I Double the Recipe?

Yes. This recipe doubles well, but ensure your pot or slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.

8. What Are Some Creative Ways to Use Leftover Chili?

• Chili Cheese Fries – Spoon over crispy fries and top with shredded cheese.
• Chili Stuffed Peppers – Fill halved bell peppers with chili and bake until tender.
• Chili Mac – Stir into cooked macaroni and add extra cheese for a quick meal.
• Taco Filling – Use as a filling for soft or hard taco shells.
• Baked Potato Topping – Spoon over a baked potato with sour cream and cheese.

---

Conclusion

The Pioneer Woman Chili is a classic, rich, and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners, game days, or meal prep. With its versatile cooking methods, customizable spice levels, and delicious toppings, it is a recipe that never disappoints. Whether served in a bowl with cornbread or spooned over fries, this chili is sure to be a household favorite.

Try it today and discover why this hearty, flavorful chili has become a go-to comfort food for so many!