This Dutch Oven Chili is a warm and hearty dish packed with flavor! It combines tender beef, beans, and spices that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Making it in a Dutch oven means everything can cook together, creating a deliciously rich taste. I love serving it with cornbread for a perfect cozy meal. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the chili, giving it a hearty texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, ground turkey or chicken work well too. For a vegetarian version, try lentils or mushrooms instead!
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans add fiber and richness. If canned beans aren’t available, use dried beans; just remember to soak and cook them first. Black beans are another great alternative.
Chili Powder: This spice is essential for that classic chili flavor. If you’re out, taco seasoning can be a good substitute, though it may change the taste a bit. Adjust the amount for desired heat.
Crushed Tomatoes: They form the base of the chili. If you prefer a chunkier texture, diced tomatoes are a fine alternative. Fresh tomatoes can be used too but will need more cooking time to break down.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chili?
The key to a tasty chili lies in allowing the flavors to fully develop. After browning the meat and veggies, adding the spices early and letting them cook for a minute helps release their full flavor. Here’s a straightforward way to boost the taste:
- Cook the onions until translucent. This adds sweetness.
- Add spices to the meat with a little oil to bloom them. This enhances their flavor.
- Let your chili simmer uncovered for at least an hour. This allows the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld together.
Make sure to taste and adjust your seasoning throughout the cooking process. Everyone’s palate is different, so a little salt or spice might be just what your chili needs!
How to Make Dutch Oven Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 pounds ground beef (or ground chuck)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Dutch Oven Chili takes about 15-20 minutes to prep, and around 1 hour to cook. You’ll let it simmer so all the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Beef:
First, heat the vegetable oil in your large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink—this should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat, feel free to drain off the excess.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the chopped onion and cook it with the beef until it’s softened—about 4-5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling spicy!), oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant.
3. Incorporate the Tomato Base:
Now, mix in the tomato paste and let it cook for another minute. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans (if using), and beef broth. Stir well to get everything nicely combined.
4. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili mixture to a rolling boil. Once it’s bubbling, turn the heat down to low to let it simmer uncovered for at least 1 hour. You’ll need to stir occasionally to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors become!
5. Taste and Serve:
After simmering, give it a taste and adjust any seasonings if needed. Finally, serve the hot chili in bowls, and top it off with your favorite options like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and chopped green onions. Enjoy!
This hearty and flavorful Dutch Oven Chili is just what you need for a comforting meal. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it will surely be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute for a leaner chili. Just follow the same cooking steps, and you’ll have a deliciously lighter version!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use less chili powder. For more heat, feel free to add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a combination of beans (like black beans and lentils) or textured vegetable protein (TVP) and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. It’ll still be hearty and satisfying!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to the freezer. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave!
