This Dutch Oven Chili is hearty, spicy, and perfect for warming up on a chilly day! It’s loaded with beans, ground meat, and all the right spices to give it a kick.
You’ll love how easy it is to make—just toss everything in the pot and let it simmer! I often serve it with some crunchy bread or over rice. Yum! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I prefer a mix of ground beef and pork for richer flavor. You can also use turkey for a leaner option or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian dish.
Beans: Kidney beans are classic, but black beans add great flavor and texture too! If you’re avoiding beans, consider adding more veggies like diced bell peppers or corn.
Spices: Chili powder is a must for that signature taste. Feel free to adjust or add spices like cayenne or even chipotle powder for extra heat!
Broth: Beef broth gives depth, but vegetable broth works well for a meat-free version. Homemade broth is always a great option if you have some on hand.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Chili Consistency?
The secret to a great chili is letting it simmer while allowing the flavors to meld. Follow these steps for a thick and hearty consistency:
- Begin with a good sauté: Browning the meat until well-cooked creates a base flavor.
- After adding your ingredients, bring to a boil. Then decrease the heat to low for a gentle simmer.
- Let it cook uncovered for at least 45 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep tasting to adjust spices or seasoning.
Remember, chili often tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead! Enjoy! 😊
Delicious Dutch Oven Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Chopped fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and about 45 minutes to simmer the chili. Altogether, it’s roughly 1 hour of cooking time until you have a delicious pot of chili ready to go, plus any extra time for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Meat:
In a large Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or your meat mix) and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off carefully.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and slightly translucent. This adds great flavor!
3. Add Spices:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices a bit, which enhances their flavor.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Add the Beans:
Gently mix in the drained kidney beans (and black beans if you’re using them). This gives your chili some heartiness and texture!
6. Let It Simmer:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the chili to thicken beautifully and the flavors to meld.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your chili! You can add extra salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed. This is your chance to make it perfect just for you!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the chili into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Feel free to serve it hot with some cornbread or tortilla chips!
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Dutch Oven Chili! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. 😊
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just be aware that it may result in a slightly different texture and flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use two cans of beans instead, or add more diced vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, and zucchini. You can also substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth to keep it plant-based.
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, chili freezes beautifully! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Should I Serve with This Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice. You could also serve it with a simple side salad or topped on a baked potato for a hearty meal!
