This Instant Pot Chili is a warm and hearty meal that’s super easy to make! With beef, beans, and a mix of spices, it’s bursting with flavor.
I love how quickly it cooks in the Instant Pot! It makes dinner a breeze, and my friends are always asking for seconds. Who can say no to that? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives the chili its heartiness. You can use turkey, chicken, or even plant-based grounds if preferred. I often use a leaner beef to keep things lighter.
Beans: Kidney beans are classic here, but black beans or pinto beans work great too. If you’re avoiding beans altogether, you can replace them with extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Spices: Chili powder is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of paprika, cumin, and cayenne can work. I love adding a touch more chili powder for a bolder taste!
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add moisture. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to chop them up instead. I love using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
How Do I Sauté Ingredients Perfectly?
Sautéing is the first step that sets the base for your chili. It’s important to get the right flavors from onions and garlic! Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the Instant Pot in ‘Sauté’ mode and add your olive oil until hot.
- Add the diced onion and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it turns soft and slightly translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Then, add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You want it fragrant but not browned!
This creates a flavor-packed base for your chili, so take your time here. Enjoy cooking!
Instant Pot Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings (Optional):
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Instant Pot Chili will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook under pressure. After that, you’ll let it release naturally for 10 minutes, totaling about 35 minutes from start to finish. Quick, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Base:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and pour in the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell that lovely aroma!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook it until it’s no longer pink. This should take about 5 minutes. Don’t worry if it sticks a little; these browned bits add flavor to your chili!
3. Adding Spice:
Now, stir in all your spices: chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Allow them to cook for about 1 minute. This step helps to toast the spices and boost the flavors!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir it all together until well mixed. The mixture should look vibrant and hearty!
5. Pressure Cook:
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Now, select ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ and set the time for 15 minutes at high pressure.
6. Release the Pressure:
When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, carefully switch the valve to ‘venting’ to quick-release any remaining pressure. Be cautious of the steam!
7. Final Touches:
Open the lid, stir the chili, and taste it. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the chili hot in bowls, and feel free to add your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy your comforting, flavorful Instant Pot chili!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great healthier alternative to ground beef. Just be cautious not to overcook it, as turkey can dry out quicker than beef. Adjust your seasonings if needed for extra flavor!
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a delicious vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and add more beans, such as black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas. You can also incorporate chopped vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added texture and flavor.
What Should I Serve With Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortillas, or over rice. For a lighter option, serve it with a simple salad or alongside roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy it on its own, topped with your favorite condiments!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.