The Best Instant Pot Chili Recipe - Thick & Hearty Chili Made Easy! (2024)

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This is absolutely the BEST Instant Pot Chili recipe that I have ever had. Thick and hearty chili that takes only 10 minutes to prepare.

Mix all the ingredients together, set the pressure cooker and dinner is ready when you are! It is one of the most popular Instant Pot recipes, especially in the middle of winter.

Best of all, chili is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve it as a stand alone comfort food meal that will keep you feeling warm and full for hours.

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However one of my favorite ways to serve chili is over a bowl of rice. It is a great way to stretch a batch of chili and the flavor and textures blend perfectly together!

Another way you can serve it is as a side dish. Chili pairs really well with both grilled cheese and Reuben sandwiches.

In fact, I always add chili to my Super Bowl Party Food menu. Everyone can enjoy a bowl of chili along with wings, nachos, and all the dips and spreads that are on the table.

And for those who are worried about guests on a Keto diet, no worries. You can make this Instant Pot Keto Chili recipe so everyone can enjoy a bowl.

What Makes This Chili So Good?

So what does it take to make the BEST Instant Pot Chili recipe? The answer is simple.

It not only takes the right blend of ingredients. It also most include a variety of spices that provide a ton of flavor and that compliment each other perfectly while cooking in your Instant Pot.

1. Ground Beef

Every traditional chili recipe begins with some sort of beef. Although I prefer to use chunks of steak my Authentic Texas Chili recipe, most chili recipes are made with ground beef.

But what type of ground beef should you use to make chili? Because we are making this in the Instant Pot, I recommend using lean ground beef/sirloin with a 90/10 lean to fat ratio.

This will allow you to cook the ground beef right in the Instant Pot and you won’t need to drain the grease after it browns. However, you can also use ground beef with a higher fat content.

You will just need to drain the meat before adding the other ingredients to the pot. And because there is more fat and less actual meat, your chili might be a little thinner than if you used ground sirloin.

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2. Beans

And when it comes to beans, it is best to use a combination rather than just seasoned chili kidney beans. That is why I will either add black or pinto beans to add a different taste and texture to the chili.

This helps keep the chili be filled with a variety of flavors that makes you coming back for more.

And speaking of variety, you are going to love the spices that makes this chili the BEST Instant Pot Chili around!

3. Chili Spices

So what is the best way to season chili? The most common ingredient in every chili recipe is chili powder.

But there are three other ingredients in this recipe that makes it the BEST Chili recipe around. And by far by favorite is smoked paprika.

I use smoked paprika in a lot of my recipes. Not only does it add a little sweetness to the chili, it also gives the soup a slight smoky flavor.

Then you add ground cumin. Most store bought chili powder has cumin already as an ingredient. However, when you add more cumin to you chili, the flavors simply brighten and shine through in every bite!

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But the most surprising ingredient is Cocoa Powder. Almost every chili cook-off winner has included cocoa powder in their recipe.

The cocoa powder provides another layer of flavor that makes the sauce of the chili taste richer. Although you can’t actually taste it, the cocoa powder balances out the heat of the chili powder perfectly!

Finally, if you like things spicy, be sure to add a heat source that won’t change the flavor of your dish. Cayenne pepper is usually the powder of choice when you are looking to heat up your chili without altering the taste.

However, because not everyone likes it hot, it is best to add it to your own specific bowl once served.

Best Instant Pot Chili Recipe

*Specific measurements and complete recipe instructions are located in a printable recipe card at the bottom of this article. However, be sure to continue to read the tips and tricks to making this recipe below.

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 2 pounds ground beef, 90/10 preferred
  • 1 onion finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 28 ounces diced tomatoes
  • 24 ounces tomato sauce
  • 15 ounces canned chili beans
  • 15 ounces canned black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3/4 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground pepper
  • cayenne pepper powder, to taste (optional)
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INSTRUCTIONS

The first step in making chili is to turn your Instant Pot to the Sauté More setting. Once the display reads HOT add the olive oil to the pot. Add the meat and cook until mostly brown.

Add the diced onion and cook for 2 minutes. Then add the garlic and continue to sauté for one additional minute or until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Press Cancel/Off. Add the remaining ingredients to the pot and stir, being sure to remove any bits that may be stuck to the bottom of the pan. This will help prevent the BURN notice from appearing on your screen.

Lock the lid in place and turn the valve to the Sealing position. Press the Chili/Beans setting or Pressure Cook/Manual on HIGH pressure for 20 minutes.

After the cooking time expires, perform a slow and controlled quick release of pressure to prevent the liquid from coming out of the valve. Or allow the pot to perform a Natural Pressure Release if you aren’t in a hurry.

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Serving Options

Serve warm and add additional toppings as desired. Some of my favorite chili toppings diced onion, sour cream, diced jalapeños, cilantro, saltine crackers and shredded cheese.

However you choose to serve your chili, I am sure that you will agree that this is truly the BEST Instant Pot Chili Recipe out there!

Enjoy! Mary

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The Best Instant Pot Chili Recipe

The Best Instant Pot Chili Recipe - Thick & Hearty Chili Made Easy! (7)

The absolute BEST Instant Pot Chili recipe – a thick and hearty meal filled with seasoned ground beef, beans and tomatoes.

Prep Time10 minutes

Cook Time20 minutes

Inactive Time10 minutes

Total Time10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 2 pounds ground beef, 90/10 preferred
  • 1 onion finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 28 ounces diced tomatoes
  • 24 ounces tomato sauce
  • 15 ounces canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 15 ounces canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3/4 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons cocoa powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground pepper

Instructions

  1. Turn your Instant Pot to the Sauté More setting.
  2. Once the display reads HOT add the olive oil to the pot. Add the meat and cook until browned.
  3. Add the onion and cook for 2 minutes. Add the garlic and continue to sauté for one additional minute. Press Cancel/Off
  4. Add the remaining ingredients to the pot and stir, being sure to remove any stuck bits that may be stuck to the bottom of the pan.
  5. Lock the lid in place and turn the valve to the Sealing position. Press the Chili/Beans setting or Pressure Cook/Manual on HIGH pressure for 20 minutes.
  6. After the cooking time expires, perform a slow and controlled quick release of pressure to prevent liquid from coming out of the valve. Or allow the pot to perform a Natural Pressure Release if you aren't in a hurry.
  7. Serve warm and add additional toppings as desired.

Notes

Suggested toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, crackers, jalapenos, onions, sour cream, and avocado.

Recipe provided by Make Your Meals

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1 grams

Amount Per Serving:Calories: 677Total Fat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 135mgSodium: 1709mgCarbohydrates: 47gFiber: 11gSugar: 10gProtein: 56g

Nutritional Information is to be used as a general guideline only . Nutritional calculations will vary from the types and brands of the products used.

The Best Instant Pot Chili Recipe - Thick & Hearty Chili Made Easy! (2024)

FAQs

How do you thicken chili in an Instant Pot? ›

If you want to know how to thicken Instant Pot chili, simply let it simmer with the lid off for about 10 additional minutes. It will also thicken more as it cools.

What is the secret to amazing chili? ›

Elevate your chili recipe by adding an extra layer of flavor. Cocoa powder, bacon, cinnamon, ground coffee and tomato paste will all add a rich sweet & salty flavors that are sure to surprise and delight.

How do you make chili taste stronger? ›

If you want more of a smoky flavor, add cumin, Spanish paprika, ancho chili powder, or a combination. If you are looking for more heat, add cayenne, crushed red pepper, or Hungarian paprika. If it's too spicy add a little brown sugar and some sweet paprika.

Is chili better on stove or Instant Pot? ›

Our testers really liked the stovetop method because of its consistency. Being on the stove allowed for it to really thicken and for the spices and flavors to meld together well.

What not to put in chili? ›

Beans and non-vegetable fillers such as rice and pasta are not allowed." If that sounds a bit uptight, the ICS's Homestyle Chili competition defines chili as: "any kind of meat, or combination of meats, and/or vegetables cooked with beans, chili peppers, various spices, and other ingredients.

What is the most important spice in chili? ›

Most Common Chili Spices. Cumin, Chile Powders, and Paprika are the most common spices in chili followed by garlic, onion, coriander, Mexican oregano, and bay leaves. These ingredients can be combined to create a savory and well-balanced pot of top notch comfort food.

What chili does Bobby Flay always use? ›

Calabrian chilis

There's one spicy ingredient that pops up more often than not in Bobby Flay's recipes. Calabrian chilis are the unique red chili Bobby Flay constantly uses on "Beat Bobby Flay."

What spice gives chili its flavor? ›

Spices and Herbs (ancho chile powder, chipotle chile powder, ground cumin, oregano, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon): Gives the chili its distinctive flavor and heat.

Does chili need tomato paste? ›

Tomato sauce is not a strong a taste as tomato paste. Also, sauce will increase the liquid content of your chili ever so slightly. Tomato paste has a more full, rich, tomato taste and smell. Using either one is appropriate, but you will need to tweak your seasonings to suit your personal tastes, anyway.

Do you cook onions or meat first for chili? ›

In a large pot over medium heat, heat the oil. Add the onions, garlic, and red pepper; cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 4 to 6 minutes. Add the beef and increase the heat to high; cook, stirring with wooden spoon to break the meat into ¼-inch pieces, until the beef is browned, 10 to 12 minutes.

What are the best beans for chili? ›

The best beans for chili are pinto, kidney, and black beans, like in this easy and tasty recipe. This 3-bean chili freezes great for meals later in the week. If you prefer thinner chili, add an extra can of tomato sauce. The green chiles are not hot and add a wonderful flavor, so don't be afraid to use them.

Does chili get thicker the longer it cooks? ›

Thin chili may just need time to cook down. Cook it uncovered low and slow, at least one hour, for it to thicken on its own. Cooking it uncovered allows for evaporation to reduce and concentrate the chili.

What kind of onion is used in chili? ›

Yellow Onions: These are the most versatile and widely available type of onion, and are a good choice for chili con carne. They have a slightly sweet, sharp, and tangy flavor that adds depth and complexity to the dish.

How can I thicken my chili that is too watery? ›

The good news is there are lots of easy ways to thicken up your chili with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry— flour, cornmeal, pureed beans, cornstarch, or even crushed tortilla chips will help do the job, along with some good old extra simmering time.

How do you fix chili that's too watery? ›

Make a cornstarch slurry: Mix together 1 tablespoon each of cornstarch and cold water, stirring well to remove any lumps. Then, stir the slurry into your chili and let it simmer for another 10 minutes to fully thicken.

How do you fix watery chili? ›

If your chili is too watery, there are a few steps you can take to thicken it: Simmer Longer: Continue cooking the chili uncovered over low heat to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Add Thickeners: Mix a small amount of cornstarch or flour with cold water and add it to the chili. Cook while stirring until it thickens.

What can I add to chili to make it more soupy? ›

Add more water or tomato sauce if it's too thick. Keeping the lid on can keep the steam in resulting in thinner chili. Also, if I cook chili in the crock pot it is usually thinner, as the lid collects the steam rather than it evaporating.

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