The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe

Discover the ultimate chili recipe made with tender ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and a flavorful blend of chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Whether you’re using a stove top, Crock Pot, or Instant Pot, this recipe ensures a savory, comforting meal packed with protein-rich kidney and pinto beans. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or meal prep, this versatile chili is customizable with garnishes like shredded cheddar, sour cream, and crunchy tortilla chips. Try this easy, hearty, and flavorful chili recipe today—your new go-to for a cozy homemade dinner!

Ingredients

US Customary

• 2 lbs. ground beef (80% lean)
• 2 cloves garlic, diced
• 8 oz. 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 oz. kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 15 oz. pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 14.5 oz. diced tomatoes (Instant Pot version only)

Garnish Options

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

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Instructions

Stove Top Method:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Add diced garlic and tomato sauce. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
3. Mix in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir until evenly combined.
4. Lower the heat and cover the pot. Simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If the mixture becomes too dry, add ½ cup of water.
5. In a small bowl, mix the masa harina with ½ cup of water until smooth. Stir it into the chili to thicken. Adjust with more masa or water for your desired consistency.
6. Add the drained beans and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Serve hot with your choice of garnishes and cornbread!

Crock Pot Method:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet or stove-top-safe Crock Pot. Drain excess grease.
2. Add the garlic and tomato sauce, cooking for 1 minute. Mix in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to the Crock Pot if needed.
4. In a small bowl, combine the masa harina with ½ cup of water. Stir into the Crock Pot.
5. Gently stir in the beans. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or longer.
6. Adjust consistency with additional masa and water if desired. Serve with garnishes and cornbread.

Instant Pot Method:

1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Brown the ground beef, crumbling it as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
2. Add the garlic and tomato sauce, cooking for 1 minute. Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix masa harina with ½ cup of water. Stir it into the Instant Pot. Add diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, and pinto beans. Stir gently.
4. Seal the lid and ensure the pressure valve is closed. Select the Chili/Beans setting and cook for 20 minutes.
5. Use a quick release or let the pressure release naturally. Adjust the consistency with more masa or water if needed.
6. Serve with your favorite garnishes!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: A robust blend of spices creates a bold, hearty chili.
• Customizable: Multiple cooking methods let you choose how to prepare it.
• Comfort Food Favorite: Perfect for cozy nights, game days, or family meals.

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Tips

• Beef Quality: Use 80% lean ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
• Simmering: For deeper flavor, let the chili simmer longer on low heat.
• Thickening: Masa harina gives the chili its signature texture. Adjust to taste.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
• Beans: Use black beans or chickpeas instead of kidney or pinto beans.
• Spice Level: Add more cayenne or diced jalapeños for extra heat.

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FAQs

Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze chili?
Absolutely! Chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

What can I use instead of masa harina?
Cornmeal or crushed tortilla chips can work in a pinch for thickening.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this chili with buttery cornbread, a side salad, or over baked potatoes for a hearty meal. Pair it with a cold beer or a refreshing limeade for the perfect finishing touch.

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Suggestions

• Top with diced avocados or fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
• For a crowd-pleasing chili bar, set out various garnishes for guests to customize their bowls.
• Double the recipe and freeze leftovers for quick, satisfying meals later.