Instant Pot Chili Recipe

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There is something incredibly comforting about a hearty bowl of chili, especially when it comes together quickly and effortlessly. This Instant Pot Chili Recipe is my go-to dish when I want a robust, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With a perfect balance of smoky spices, tender ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy beans, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl that satisfies every craving. If you’re a fan of bold, homey meals, you’re going to love how this Instant Pot Chili Recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty feast ready in just over half an hour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Instant Pot Chili Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building layers of flavor, adding texture, or brightening up the color. From spices that bring warmth to tender beans that add creaminess, you’ll appreciate how thoughtfully these ingredients come together.

• Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the beef perfectly.
• Ground beef (90% lean): Provides hearty protein and a meaty foundation without excess fat.
• Onion (finely diced): Offers sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
• Minced garlic: Infuses a fragrant punch that wakes up the palate.
• Diced tomatoes (28-ounce can): Delivers bright acidity and juicy texture, do not drain for extra flavor.
• Tomato sauce (three 8-ounce cans): Creates a smooth, thick base for the chili’s rich body.
• Beef broth (¾ cup): Adds savory umami and helps meld all ingredients together.
• Chili powder: The star seasoning that brings smoky warmth and a tiny kick.
• Ground cumin: Introduces an earthy, slightly nutty undertone that enhances complexity.
• Smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth that rounds out the chili’s flavor profile beautifully.
• Cocoa powder: A secret ingredient that enriches the chili with subtle bittersweetness.
• Granulated sugar: Balances acidity and brightens the rich tomato flavors.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and amplifying all the other flavors.
• Ground pepper: Adds mild heat and peppery notes to spark the dish.
• Kidney beans (15-ounce can, drained and rinsed): Contribute hearty texture and mild sweetness.
• Pinto beans (15-ounce can, drained and rinsed): Provide creaminess and complement the kidney beans perfectly.
• Assorted toppings: Such as shredded cheese, fresh tomatoes, green onions, and sour cream to brighten and personalize each serving.

How to Make Instant Pot Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onions

Begin by turning your 6-quart Instant Pot to the Sauté setting, selecting More to increase heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up, then toss in the ground beef. Brown the meat while breaking it apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking and create those flavorful browned bits. When the beef starts to look golden, add the finely diced onion and cook it for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent. This initial browning builds a deep meaty foundation that infuses the chili with irresistible flavors.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Base

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant—this only takes a moment but makes a world of difference. Then add the entire cans of diced tomatoes (don’t drain), tomato sauce, and beef broth. This combination provides a beautifully rich, slightly thickened sauce that perfectly coats the meat and beans later on. Mixing these liquids in early lets the flavors start marrying before pressure cooking.

Step 3: Season and Add Beans

Now it’s time to layer in the spices: chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cocoa powder, sugar, kosher salt, and ground pepper. Each spice contributes a unique note making this Instant Pot Chili Recipe complex but balanced. Finally, add the drained and rinsed kidney and pinto beans, which absorb those bold flavors while adding creamy texture to every spoonful.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Chili

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and select the Chili/Beans setting, if your model has one, or use Manual High Pressure. Cook for 20 minutes, allowing the magic of pressure cooking to meld all the ingredients into a thick, hearty chili. You can either release the pressure manually or allow it to come down naturally, but be sure to follow your Instant Pot’s safety guidelines.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your Instant Pot chili is ready, give it a good stir to combine any ingredients that may have settled. It’s time to scoop it into bowls and get creative with your garnishes – this dish is meant to be personalized and enjoyed with a flourish!

How to Serve Instant Pot Chili Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes transform this Instant Pot Chili Recipe into an interactive and vibrant meal. Toppings like shredded sharp cheddar cheese melt delightfully into the hot chili, while fresh diced tomatoes add a refreshing burst. A dollop of sour cream brings cooling creaminess that contrasts with the bold spices, and chopped green onions give a crisp, fresh bite. Feel free to jazz it up with some sliced jalapeños or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing.

Side Dishes

The beauty of chili is that it pairs well with so many comforting sides. Cornbread, whether classic or jalapeño-infused, offers sweetness that complements the chili’s savoriness. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness, while crispy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping and adding crunch. Rice or baked potatoes also make excellent hearty bedfellows for a bigger meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get a little playful, try serving the chili over baked sweet potatoes for a colorful plate or stuff it into warm tortillas for satisfying chili tacos. Another crowd-pleaser is chili cheese fries—pile freshly cooked fries with chili, cheese, and your favorite toppings for an indulgent treat. No matter how you serve it, your Instant Pot Chili Recipe will shine as a delicious centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Instant Pot Chili Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its rich flavors and moisture. Leftover chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to mingle, making your leftovers something to look forward to.

Freezing

If you want to save chili for longer, freezing is a great option. Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Instant Pot chili on the stovetop in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot and bubbly. Alternatively, microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl in one-minute increments, stirring in between, until warmed through. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if it has thickened too much in storage.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives. Just keep in mind that turkey and chicken cook a bit faster and may not develop the same deep flavor as beef, so seasoning might need a slight boost to keep the chili bold and satisfying.

Do I have to use both types of beans?

Not at all. Kidney and pinto beans each bring different textures and tastes, but feel free to use one type or swap for black beans or cannellini beans if you prefer. The chili will still be deliciously hearty.

What if I don’t have cocoa powder?

Cocoa powder adds subtle depth and richness but is not mandatory. You can simply omit it or use a small amount of unsweetened dark chocolate to achieve a similar effect, just be sure not to add sweetness.

Can I make this Instant Pot Chili Recipe spicier?

Yes! To turn up the heat, add cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the chili. Remember to adjust the spice gradually so you can enjoy the warming flavors without overwhelming your palate.

Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?

Definitely. Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans and vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and your Instant Pot Chili Recipe will still deliver hearty, comforting flavor that everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Instant Pot Chili Recipe enough for anyone craving a quick, soulful meal full of warmth and bold flavor. It’s the perfect dish to cozy up with on a chilly day or to share at your next casual gathering. Give it a try, experiment with your favorite toppings, and enjoy the simple joy of a hearty homemade chili made effortlessly in your Instant Pot!

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