Instant Pot Chili

This Instant Pot chili recipe is a must-try for anyone searching for a hearty and flavorful dish. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or cozy nights in, this chili brings warmth and satisfaction to any occasion. With its rich tomato base and perfectly blended spices, you won’t be able to resist a second helping!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just about an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a deep, delicious flavor that will impress your family and friends.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with beans and lean ground beef, this chili is both nutritious and filling.
• Versatile Dish: Great on its own or served with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions, you can customize it to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multifunctional appliance cooks food quickly while retaining flavors and nutrients.
• Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife: Essential for preparing your ingredients efficiently and safely.
• Measuring Spoons: Ensures accuracy in seasoning amounts for balanced flavor in your chili.

Ingredients

This Instant Pot chili recipe is made with ground beef and a rich tomato base that’s layered with spices and seasonings. It’s thick, hearty and so flavorful.

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion (chopped)
– 1 pound ground beef (90% lean recommended)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 4 tablespoons tomato paste
– 14.5 ounce can (1 ¾ cups) low sodium beef broth (or chicken broth)
– 28 ounce can fire roasted crushed tomatoes (or fire roasted diced tomatoes)
– 15 ounce can kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
– 15 ounce can black beans* (rinsed and drained)

How to Make Instant Pot Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Press Sauté to turn on the sauté setting on Instant Pot. Add the olive oil and heat until hot. Add the onion and cook for about 2 minutes until the onion starts to soften.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook while stirring to crumble the meat until it’s browned, which should take around 5 minutes. Drain off any excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic. Then press Cancel to turn off the sauté function.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the chopped bell pepper, chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, tomato paste, and broth into the pot. Stir well while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom.

Step 5: Layer Tomatoes and Beans

Carefully add crushed tomatoes and beans on top of your mixture without stirring them in. This step helps prevent a burn warning during cooking.

Step 6: Cook Under Pressure

Close the Instant Pot lid securely. Move the steam release valve to sealing position. Pressure cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes. The Instant Pot will take time to reach pressure before starting the countdown.

Step 7: Release Pressure Safely

Once cooking is complete, allow natural pressure release for about 10 minutes by leaving it undisturbed. Then quick-release any remaining pressure by moving the steam release valve carefully using a long spoon handle. Open the lid once steam has escaped completely.

Step 8: Final Touches

Stir your chili well. If you prefer it thicker, use the sauté function for a few minutes to achieve your desired consistency. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Instant Pot Chili

Serving Instant Pot chili is all about pairing it with delicious toppings and sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack adds creaminess and enhances the flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the spicy chili.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a crunchy texture and a pop of color.
• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro gives a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado can balance the heat and add richness.

Bread Pairings

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up the chili’s sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds an aromatic touch that pairs well with the dish.
• Tortilla Chips: Crispy chips are great for scooping up chili or enjoying on the side.

Salads

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of coleslaw complement the textures in chili nicely.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Chili

Perfecting your Instant Pot chili can enhance its taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Bold Spices: Use fresh spices for more vibrant flavors. This enhances the overall taste profile.
• Layer Flavors: Sautéing onions and garlic first helps build a deeper flavor base before adding other ingredients.
• Adjust Consistency: If your chili is too thin, use the sauté function after cooking to thicken it up by simmering for a few minutes.
• Let it Rest: Allowing your chili to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking can help meld flavors, making it even tastier.
• Experiment with Beans: Try different beans like pinto or cannellini alongside kidney and black beans for variety in flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread: This sweet, buttery bread is ideal for soaking up any leftover chili sauce.
2. Rice: White or brown rice serves as a filling base that complements the heartiness of the chili.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes can be topped with chili for a delicious twist on classic baked potatoes.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A warm grilled cheese is perfect for dipping into your bowl of chili.
5. Nachos: Tortilla chips topped with melted cheese make a fun, shareable dish alongside your chili.
6. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas provide an easy-to-eat option that pairs beautifully with the spiciness of chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot chili, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not Browning the Meat: Failing to brown the ground beef can result in a less flavorful chili. Always make sure to sauté it until fully browned before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping the Natural Pressure Release: Quickly releasing pressure can lead to uneven cooking. Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release for at least 10 minutes for optimal results.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients can prevent proper cooking. Stick to the recipe’s ingredient list and avoid overfilling the Instant Pot.
• Ignoring Ingredient Order: Adding beans and tomatoes at the beginning can cause burn warnings. Layer them on top without stirring after adding broth and spices for best results.
• Using High-Sodium Broth: Opting for regular broth can make your chili overly salty. Always choose low-sodium options to better control flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chili in airtight containers.
• It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Instant Pot Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.
• Chili can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does Instant Pot Chili Take?

Instant Pot chili takes about 15 minutes of cook time, but remember that it also takes time to come up to pressure.

Can I Customize This Instant Pot Chili Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add different beans, vegetables, or spices according to your preferences for a unique twist.

What Can I Serve with Instant Pot Chili?

Consider serving your chili with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal experience.

Is Instant Pot Chili Healthy?

Absolutely! Loaded with protein from beans and lean ground beef, this chili is both nutritious and satisfying.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot chili recipe is not only hearty and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting dish that’s perfect any day of the week!