Top-Rated Instant Pot Chili Recipe: Cozy Comfort in a Flash

Crafting the ultimate instant pot chili can turn an ordinary weeknight into a flavor-packed adventure.

Pressure cooking transforms humble ingredients into a hearty meal bursting with robust spices and rich textures.

Comfort arrives quickly when you harness the magic of modern kitchen technology.

Home cooks appreciate how this recipe simplifies complex cooking techniques without sacrificing depth of taste.

Tender beans and perfectly seasoned meat mingle in a symphony of southwestern-inspired goodness.

Robust and satisfying, this chili promises to become your new go-to dinner solution.

Jump in and experience a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Creative Chili Variations to Explore

• Vegetarian Chili Swap: Replace ground meat with plant-based crumbles, tempeh, or diced extra-firm tofu for a protein-packed meatless version.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients like broth and spices are certified gluten-free, and use gluten-free beans to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute beans with cauliflower chunks or zucchini, and increase meat quantity for a lower-carbohydrate chili option.
• Spicy Southwestern Style: Add diced green chilies, jalapeños, and a dash of cayenne pepper to increase heat and create a more intense flavor profile.

FAQs

• Is this chili recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on the chili powder and optional additions like jalapeños. For a milder version, use less chili powder or choose a mild variety.

• Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even use a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.

• Do I need to soak the beans before cooking?

No, when using an Instant Pot, you don’t need to pre-soak the beans. The pressure cooking method softens them perfectly during the cooking process.

• How can I make this chili more protein-rich?

Consider adding extra beans, diced chicken, or even quinoa to boost the protein content and make the chili more filling and nutritious.

Why Instant Pot Chili Is a Must-Try

• Easily adapt the recipe by swapping meats, adding extra veggies, or adjusting spice levels to suit every family member's taste preferences.
• Enjoy a warm, satisfying dish that brings everyone together, perfect for casual gatherings, game days, or cozy family dinners.
• Prepare a large batch that tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights and make-ahead lunches.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Chili

• Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful meat that forms the foundation of this classic chili.
• Ground Turkey: A leaner alternative that provides protein and delicious texture.

• Onion, Garlic, Bell Pepper: A classic flavor trio that adds depth, sweetness, and aromatic complexity to the chili.

• Kidney Beans, Black Beans: Protein-packed legumes that add texture and earthy flavor to the chili.
• Diced Tomatoes: Provides a tangy base and helps create the signature chili sauce.

• Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika: Essential spices that create the signature warm and complex chili flavor profile.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste.

• Broth: Adds moisture and helps create the perfect chili consistency while boosting overall flavor.

Cooking Guide for Instant Pot Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat the Instant Pot using Saute mode.

Add ground beef and cook until it transforms into a rich, golden brown color.

Break up the meat into small crumbles while cooking.

If excess fat appears, carefully drain it away.

The goal is to create a deliciously caramelized base for your chili.

• Ground beef
• Olive oil (if needed)

Step 2: Sizzle the Aromatics

Toss chopped vegetables into the pot and let them dance and soften.

Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

• Diced onions
• Minced garlic
• Chopped bell peppers

Step 3: Create the Flavor Foundation

Pour in the vibrant tomato base and hearty beans.

Sprinkle in a symphony of spices that will make your taste buds sing with excitement.

• Diced tomatoes
• Kidney beans
• Black beans
• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Beef or chicken broth

Step 4: Pressure Cook to Perfection

Secure the Instant Pot lid and set to high pressure for 15 minutes.

Allow the magic to happen as flavors meld and intensify.

After cooking, let the pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining steam.

Step 5: Serve and Celebrate

Open the lid and give the chili a gentle stir.

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Ladle into bowls and crown with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Chili Tips for Big Flavor

• Remove excess fat after browning to prevent greasy chili and ensure a cleaner, more concentrated flavor profile.
• Rinse canned beans before adding to reduce sodium and prevent potential digestive discomfort while maintaining the recipe's hearty texture.
• Add a splash of worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of cocoa powder to enhance the chili's rich, complex taste without overwhelming other ingredients.
• Adjust chili powder and cumin quantities to match your heat preference, starting with less and gradually increasing for perfect personalized seasoning.
• This chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it an excellent make-ahead meal that tastes even better after flavors meld overnight.

Storing and Reheating Instant Pot Chili

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer chili to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Place chili in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals. Stir between intervals until heated thoroughly and reaches 165°F.
• Pour chili into a saucepan, add a splash of broth to prevent sticking. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot and steaming.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Chili

• Pair Flavor-Packed Toppings: Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese, dollop cool sour cream, and scatter fresh chopped green onions for a vibrant, creamy contrast to the rich, spicy chili.
• Complement with Corn Bread: Serve warm, slightly sweet cornbread alongside the chili to soak up the robust sauce and provide a comforting textural balance.
• Match with Bold Beverages: Pour a cold, hoppy craft beer like an amber ale or a robust red wine such as Zinfandel to cut through the chili's intense flavors and cleanse the palate.
• Create Fresh Side Salad: Toss a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to offer a light, refreshing counterpoint to the hearty, warming chili.

Ultimate Instant Pot Chili Recipe

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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty and bold, this Ultimate Instant Pot Chili brings robust southwestern flavors straight to your dinner table. Packed with tender beef, rich spices, and a perfect balance of heat, you’ll savor every comforting spoonful of this quick and satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (454 g) ground beef or turkey
• 2 (15 ounces/425 g) cans diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 (15 ounces/425 g) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounces/425 g) can black beans, rinsed and drained

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup (240 ml) beef or vegetable broth

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

1. Activate the Instant Pot’s sauté function and brown the ground meat thoroughly, ensuring no pink remains visible. Eliminate any excess grease from the cooking surface.
2. Incorporate finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers into the meat, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Introduce diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans into the pot. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper across the mixture, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly.
4. Pour broth into the pot, gently mixing all ingredients to create a uniform consistency. Secure the lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing position.
5. Program the Instant Pot to high pressure for 15 minutes. After cooking completes, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid, stir the chili thoroughly to blend flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Ladle into serving bowls and embellish with preferred garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.

Notes

• For a leaner version, swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, maintaining the same rich flavor profile while reducing overall fat content.
• Enhance the depth of flavor by toasting spices like chili powder and cumin in the pot before adding other ingredients, releasing their essential oils and intensifying the taste.
• Make the chili vegetarian-friendly by replacing meat with additional beans like pinto or cannellini, or use plant-based meat alternatives for protein-packed texture.
• Meal prep friendly: This chili freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or busy lifestyle meal planning.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg