If you’re craving a chili that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe. This hearty beef chili combines the rich flavors of browned ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, tender beans, and just the right kick of spices to satisfy every craving. What makes this chili truly special is the addition of masa harina, which thickens the chili and adds a subtle corn undertone, making each spoonful incredibly comforting and uniquely delicious. Whether you’re serving a crowd or cozying up for a family meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in building the deep, layered flavors and hearty texture that make this chili unforgettable. From the savory ground beef to the earthy beans and the perfect blend of spices, every element contributes to the perfect bowl of chili.
- 2 pounds ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty base and protein punch that makes this chili so satisfying.
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce: Adds a smooth tomato flavor that forms the chili’s tangy backbone.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice: Offers a fresh, slightly chunky texture and brightness.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Deepens the tomato flavor with concentrated richness.
- 1/4 cup masa harina (corn flour): Thickens the chili and adds a subtle corn flavor that’s pleasantly unique.
- 1/2 cup warm water: Used to mix with the masa harina smoothly before adding to the chili.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and fiber to create a filling meal.
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Complements the kidney beans with a slightly different texture and flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chili with its essential aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Contributes earthy, smoky notes that define chili flavor.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: Brings the signature chili spice and heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a welcomed touch of heat without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Enhances color and adds mild sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and amplifies all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle pungency and warmth.
- 2 cups beef broth: Builds a luscious, savory liquid base for the chili.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté the aromatics and beef for a rich flavor foundation.
How to Make The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them soften and become fragrant for about 3 to 4 minutes. This step unlocks their sweetness and creates a flavorful base. Next, add the ground beef, cooking it until it’s nicely browned all over. Make sure to break it up with your spoon as it cooks so it crumbles evenly. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the chili from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Build the Chili Flavor
Once your meat is browned, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, and tomato paste. These three combine to make a hearty, tomato-rich sauce that clings to every bite. Add the ground cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot, stirring well to evenly distribute the spices. Each spice layers more warmth, earthiness, and subtle heat into the chili.
Step 3: Add Broth and Prepare Masa Mixture
Pour in the beef broth and give everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to let the flavors start coming together. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the masa harina with warm water until smooth. This mixture will thicken the chili later on without any clumps or graininess.
Step 4: Thicken and Simmer
Slowly pour the masa harina mixture into the simmering chili, stirring constantly so it integrates smoothly. Keep the pot uncovered and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering melds all the flavors while the masa causes the chili to thicken beautifully and develop a slightly creamy texture.
Step 5: Add Beans and Finish Cooking
Finally, stir in the kidney and pinto beans. Let the chili cook for another 10 to 15 minutes uncovered, allowing it to thicken further while the beans soak up all those incredible flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Now your chili is ready to warm hearts and fill bellies!
How to Serve The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes are where you can get creative and make each bowl uniquely yours. A sprinkle of shredded cheese adds gooey indulgence, while a dollop of sour cream provides a cool balance to the chili’s spicy warmth. Fresh chopped green onions or cilantro add brightness, and a handful of crunchy tortilla chips can provide a satisfying contrast. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!
Side Dishes
Chili pairs beautifully with simple, comforting sides. Cornbread is a classic choice, complementing the masa harina’s subtle corn flavor in the chili itself. If you want to keep it lighter, a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can refresh your palate between bites. For extra heartiness, serve with warm tortillas or over a bed of rice.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a casual gathering, consider serving The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe in individual bread bowls for fun, edible containers. Alternatively, layering the chili over nachos and topping with cheese and jalapenos makes for an irresistible party dish. You could also spoon chili over baked potatoes and add your favorite fixings for a filling meal twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chili is a lifesaver for busy days and tastes even better after resting overnight as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When packing away, make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing the container to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
This chili freezes beautifully if you want to make it in advance or save some for a future meal. Cool the chili completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, move the chili to the refrigerator overnight for safe and even thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, thawed chili can simply be warmed on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving small portions in a microwave-safe bowl works well too—just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to evenly warm the chili. Add a splash of beef broth or water if it looks too thick after reheating.
FAQs
Can I make The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian alternative. Just adjust the broth to a vegetable variety and season accordingly.
What can I substitute for masa harina if I don’t have any?
If masa harina isn’t available, you can use cornmeal as a substitute, but keep in mind that it might slightly change the texture of the chili. Mix it with the warm water just as you would the masa to avoid lumps.
How spicy is The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe?
This chili has a moderate heat level thanks to the chili powder and cayenne pepper; however, you can easily adjust the spice by reducing or omitting the cayenne for a milder taste or adding more if you like things fiery.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version of this chili. The cooking times remain similar, just be sure to brown the meat thoroughly to build lots of flavor.
Will this chili thicken as it cools?
Yes, The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe thickens as it cools due to the masa harina and beans. If you prefer it thinner when reheating, simply stir in a little extra broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of chili made from a recipe you trust, and The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe fits that description perfectly. Its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and satisfying textures come together effortlessly, making it a true crowd favorite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new go-to chili that warms both the body and soul.
Print
The Pioneer Woman Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
The Pioneer Woman Chili is a hearty and flavorful beef chili recipe featuring a robust blend of spices, beans, and a subtle corn flavor from masa harina. This stovetop classic is perfect for family dinners, offering a thick, comforting chili that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Meat and Beans
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato and Thickening Agents
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup masa harina (corn flour)
- 1/2 cup warm water
Broth and Oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking and stirring occasionally until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Add tomato and spices: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato paste, ground cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Add broth and masa harina: Pour in beef broth and stir well to combine. In a small bowl, mix masa harina with warm water until smooth, then stir this mixture into the chili to thicken it.
- Simmer the chili: Bring the chili to a simmer uncovered and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to blend and the chili to thicken.
- Add beans and finish cooking: Add the drained and rinsed kidney and pinto beans to the pot. Continue cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the chili thickens to your desired consistency.
- Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the chili hot with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Notes
- For a milder chili, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Masa harina thickens the chili and adds a subtle corn flavor; you can substitute with cornmeal if needed.
- Leftover chili tastes even better the next day as flavors have more time to meld.
