Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe
If there’s one dish that truly embodies comfort in a bowl, it’s the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe. This hearty classic pairs tender ground beef with savory spices, smoky undertones, and those quintessential beans that bring it all together. What makes this recipe so loveable is its simple, unfussy ingredients and the magical way they simmer into something greater than the sum of their parts. It’s exactly the sort of chili you crave on game day or any chilly night when you want something that sticks to your ribs and warms your soul!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe keeps things simple, letting each ingredient shine and do its part. Every component adds something—rich beefiness, aromatic spice, or creamy beans—to create the ultimate chili experience you’ll make again and again.
- 2 pounds ground beef: The heart of the chili for deep, meaty flavor and a hearty texture.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic adds just the right pop of earthy, aromatic zest.
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce: Provides a silky, tangy base that brings all the ingredients into harmony.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano: A sprinkle of oregano lifts the whole dish with gentle herbal notes.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Essential for that smoky, unmistakably “chili” depth you know and love.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: Packs a flavorful punch and a rich, brick-red color.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Don’t skip it—it’s key for balancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds gentle heat, but you can leave it out if you prefer a milder chili.
- 1/4 cup masa harina (corn flour): The secret ingredient for thickening and a touch of subtle corn flavor.
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed): These classics give the chili body and chew.
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans (drained and rinsed): Creamy pintos round out the blend perfectly.
- 1 medium onion (diced): Sautéed onions add sweetness and depth from the very first step.
- 1/2 cup water (plus more as needed): Keeps things just loose enough to simmer, blending all the flavors.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by setting your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. As the beef browns and sizzles, you’ll start to smell those irresistible toasty aromas—this is your first layer of flavor, so don’t rush it! Cook until there’s no pink left and plenty of savory bits caramelized on the bottom.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Toss in the diced onion and let it cook alongside the beef for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir occasionally so everything gets golden and softened. If you love a little extra sweetness to balance the chili’s spice, let those onions linger just a bit longer.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Add the minced garlic and stir for about a minute. This quick sauté will unlock the garlic’s aroma without letting it turn bitter. You’ll notice the whole kitchen instantly starts smelling even better!
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Spices
Now, add the tomato sauce, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and cayenne (if using). This is your moment to transform beef and onion into full-blown chili. Pour in 1/2 cup water to help everything meld together, then reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently—the secret to maximum flavor.
Step 5: Slow Simmer
Let your chili gently bubble on low heat for about one hour, stirring now and then. This step is where the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe goes from simple to spectacular. The flavors mingle, deepen, and marry into that dreamy chili richness.
Step 6: Masa Harina Slurry
In a small bowl, mix masa harina with 1/2 cup water to create a smooth slurry. Stir this into your simmering pot. The masa thickens the chili and rewards you with a subtle hint of corn—a little touch that makes all the difference.
Step 7: Add the Beans
Gently stir in your drained kidney and pinto beans. Let them simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes as the chili thickens and the beans soak up all that flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed to make it your own.
Step 8: Serve Hot & Enjoy
Ladle the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe into bowls while piping hot. Top with your favorites like shredded cheese, sour cream, or a sprinkle of green onions—then dig in!
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Chili truly comes alive with the right toppings. Ladle a steaming bowl and finish with shredded cheddar, dollops of sour cream, fresh chopped green onions, or even crunchy tortilla strips. A dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños adds heat for spice lovers!
Side Dishes
This chili plays so well with classic sides. Cornbread is a must for soaking up every savory spoonful, or try it with a crisp green salad or tortilla chips for crunch. Warm, buttered rolls are another cozy way to round out your chili night.
Creative Ways to Present
Try some fun servings: pile the chili over baked potatoes, scoop it into bread bowls, or serve as chili nachos with all your favorite fixings. If you’re feeling bold, offer a chili bar for parties and let everyone make their bowl unique!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the chili cool, then scoop leftovers into airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep beautifully for up to four days. The flavors only deepen, making those leftovers even tastier the next day.
Freezing
The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe freezes wonderfully! Ladle cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving room for expansion. It’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and it’ll be ready to reheat when you crave it.
Reheating
Warm your chili gently in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water if it’s too thick. For single servings, the microwave works just fine! Just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring to avoid hot spots.
FAQs
Can I make the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans. You’ll still get loads of classic chili flavor, and the masa harina keeps it hearty.
What can I use instead of masa harina?
If you can’t find masa harina, a couple of tablespoons of cornmeal will help thicken the chili. The flavor may be slightly different, but still delicious.
Is the chili spicy?
The base recipe is mild but flavorful—the cayenne pepper adds a kick, so adjust that to suit your heat level. Leave it out for a milder chili or bump it up for extra spice.
Can I double the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe?
Yes, and it’s perfect for feeding a crowd! Just scale everything up evenly and use a big enough pot. It’s a hit for potlucks, family gatherings, and game nights.
Does the Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe taste better the next day?
It truly does! The flavors have more time to mingle overnight. Just reheat and enjoy an even richer, more satisfying bowl on day two.
Final Thoughts
This Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe really is the ultimate answer to those dinner cravings for something warm, filling, and full of classic comfort. Pour yourself a big, steaming bowl and don’t forget the cornbread on the side. I can’t wait for you to dig in and make this chili a new staple in your own kitchen!
Print
Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Pioneer Woman Chili, a classic beef chili recipe that is easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner or for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/2 cup water, plus more as needed
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in garlic, tomato sauce, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Pour in water, reduce heat, and simmer for 1 hour.
- Thicken the Chili: Mix masa harina with water to form a slurry. Stir into the chili along with beans. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the chili, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot with desired toppings.
Notes
- You can substitute cornmeal for masa harina if needed, though it may alter the texture slightly.
- This chili tastes even better the next day and is great for make-ahead meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
