Instant Pot Chili

As the weather turns crisp and cool, I find myself craving a hearty bowl of Instant Pot Chili. There’s something so comforting about a steaming bowl of chili, especially after a long day. I remember the first time I decided to make it; the aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen felt like a warm hug. Gathering around the table with family, each spoonful warms not just the body, but the spirit too. This recipe has become a staple in my home, perfect for cozy evenings, game days, or even a quick weeknight dinner. You won’t believe how easy it is to make this flavorful dish in your Instant Pot!

Ingredient List for Instant Pot Chili

The ingredients for this Instant Pot Chili come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s not only comforting but packed with nutrients. The key players in this recipe include ground beef, which provides a hearty base, and a variety of spices that bring the chili to life. The tomato sauce and canned chili beans make it rich and satisfying, while olive oil adds a smooth finish. Let’s dive into the ingredients!

• 2 tsp olive oil: This is essential for sautéing the vegetables and meat, giving the chili a robust flavor.
• 2 lb ground beef: The star of the dish, providing protein and a rich, meaty flavor.
• 1 onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the chili.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for an aromatic base, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 15 oz beef broth: Adds moisture and richness, making the chili hearty and satisfying.
• 15.5 oz canned chili beans: Provides texture and flavor, making the chili even more filling.
• 30 oz tomato sauce: The base of the chili, creating a deliciously rich sauce.
• 2 Tbsp chili powder: Brings spice and warmth, giving the chili its signature flavor.
• 1 Tbsp ground cumin: Adds an earthy depth that complements the chili powder.
• 1 tsp oregano: A fragrant herb that brightens the dish.
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste: Enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the chili.
• 2 cans diced petite tomatoes (14.5 oz each, do not drain): Contributes fresh flavor and texture.
• Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, etc. to add extra richness and flavor.

How to Prepare Instant Pot Chili

Preparing this Instant Pot Chili is a breeze, thanks to the multifunctionality of the Instant Pot. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such a rich and flavorful dish. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll have a warm pot of chili ready to enjoy!

1. Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Once it’s hot, add the olive oil to the pot. You’ll hear it sizzle, which means it’s ready for the next steps.
2. Next, add the ground beef and onion to the pot. Use a spatula to break up the beef as it cooks, stirring until everything is well browned. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Watch for the meat to become fully browned and the onions to soften.
3. When the meat is nicely browned, add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking. You’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen; this is when the dish starts to come alive!
4. Now it’s time to add the rest of the ingredients. Pour in the beef broth, canned chili beans, tomato sauce, and diced petite tomatoes without draining them. Give everything a good stir until combined.
5. Then, add the spices: chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, and tomato paste. Stir well to ensure that every ingredient is coated in the spices, creating a flavorful blend.
6. Close the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to manual mode for 25 minutes. This is where the magic happens! The pressure will build, and all those flavors will meld together beautifully.
7. Once the cooking time is complete, you can either manually release the pressure or allow it to release naturally. If you release it manually, watch out for the steam!
8. Open the pot and give the chili a good stir. You’ll see how wonderfully thick and rich it looks, and the aroma will be irresistible.
9. Serve the chili hot with your choice of toppings like sour cream or green onions. Enjoy every hearty bite!

How to Switch It Up

Sometimes, it’s fun to switch things up in the kitchen. Here are some creative ideas to personalize your Instant Pot Chili!

• Alter the protein: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey or even a mix of beans for a vegetarian version.
• Change the beans: Experiment with different types of beans like black beans or kidney beans for a unique twist.
• Add veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor.
• Top it differently: Instead of traditional toppings, try avocado slices or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean vibe.
• Spice it up: For an extra kick, include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the mix.
• Serve it differently: Rather than serving the chili in bowls, consider using it as a filling for tacos or burritos!
• Pair it with sides: Serve with cornbread, a mixed salad, or my homemade cheddar biscuits for a complete meal!

Perfect Matches for Instant Pot Chili

When it comes to serving your Instant Pot Chili, the possibilities are endless. Here are some great options:

• Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread complements the chili perfectly, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens balances out the richness of the chili.
• Rice: Serve it over a bed of rice for a filling and hearty meal.
• Game Night: This dish is perfect for gatherings; serve it as part of a buffet for your game day celebrations.
• Chili Bar: Set up a chili bar with toppings like cheese, onions, and sour cream for guests to customize their bowls!
• Seasonal Pairing: This chili is great in the winter but can also be enjoyed during fall harvest gatherings.
• Freezer Meal: Pack leftovers into single serving containers for quick meals throughout the week.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Chili truly embodies comfort food at its finest, combining rich flavors with the convenience of a pressure cooker. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try it for your next meal!

Instant Pot Chili

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot Chili is rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, this easy recipe will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tsp olive oil
• 2 lb ground beef
• 1 onion finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 15 oz beef broth
• 15.5 oz canned chili beans
• 30 oz tomato sauce
• 2 Tbsp chili powder
• 1 Tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cans diced petite tomatoes 14.5 oz each, do not drain
• Optional toppings sour cream, green onions, etc.

Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Turn Instant Pot to Saute. Add olive oil to the bottom of the pot. Add the meat and onions. Cook until browned, breaking up the beef with a spatula as you stir. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients to the pot and stir until combined.
3. Turn the Instant Pot to Manual and set to 25 minutes. After the cooking time is done release the pressure manually or allow it to release naturally when the chili is done cooking.
4. Serve with desired toppings.

Notes

• A dollop of sour cream: adds creaminess.
• A sprinkling of shredded cheddar cheese: for richness.
• Sliced green onions: for freshness.
• Instead of cheddar cheese: try pepper jack or Monterey jack cheese.
• Try some diced red onion: instead of green onions.
• Add some crushed tortilla chips: or corn chips on top for some crunch.
• Diced avocado: or a scoop of guacamole is delicious, too!

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.