This warm and hearty Dutch Oven Chili is packed with beans, ground meat, and tasty spices. It’s perfect for cozy nights or when friends come over!
I love how easy it is to make all in one pot. Just stir it up, let it simmer, and enjoy a big bowl with some bread on the side. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for ground beef for its richness, but a mix of beef and pork adds a great depth of flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too.
Beans: Kidney and black beans add texture and protein. If you are not a fan of one of them, you can skip it or substitute with pinto beans or chickpeas for a different twist.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are must-haves for that chili flavor. If you’re tight on ingredients, try taco seasoning as a substitute. For a milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper.
Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide the base sauce, while diced tomatoes with green chilies give heat. If you don’t have the canned version, use fresh tomatoes. Just chop them up and cook longer to break them down.
How Can I Get the Best Flavor from My Chili?
Getting great flavor in your chili is all about layering and patience. Start by sautéing your onions and garlic to release their sweetness. Toasting spices and letting your chili simmer slowly lets those flavors meld beautifully.
- Make sure to cook the garlic for only 1-2 minutes to avoid burning.
- Don’t rush the simmering step—low and slow is the way to go. This allows the spices to fully infuse into the meat and beans.
- Taste your chili before serving and don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings. A little extra salt or chili powder can make a big difference!
Happy cooking, and enjoy your comforting bowl of Dutch Oven Chili!
How to Make Delicious Dutch Oven Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or half beef/half pork for extra flavor)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional for heat)
Spices:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to heat preference)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquid Ingredients:
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
For Topping:
- Grated cheddar cheese, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chili takes about 20 minutes to prep and approximately 1 hour to cook. So, in total, you should plan for about 1 hour and 20 minutes to enjoy this warm, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent. This helps build a strong flavor base for your chili!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes. The garlic should become fragrant but be careful not to burn it—this step adds a lovely aroma to your dish!
3. Brown the Meat:
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Brown it thoroughly until there is no pink left, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix in Spices:
Time to add in the flavors! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook this for about 1 minute to toast the spices and amplify their flavors.
5. Combine Remaining Ingredients:
Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with green chilies, if you’re feeling bold), tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans into the pot. Give everything a good stir to mix it up nicely.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring your chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the Dutch oven and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour. This step allows the flavors to meld together and makes the chili nice and thick. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
7. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste your chili. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed to suit your preferences.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once ready, serve your chili hot! Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese for that extra comfort. You can also add a dollop of sour cream, some chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro if you like!
9. Side Suggestions:
This chili pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Now you’re all set to dive into a hearty bowl of Dutch Oven Chili, perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for This Chili?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. A mix of beef and pork also enhances the flavor nicely. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you choose to use a leaner meat!
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add more beans or lentils for protein. You can also include chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to add bulk and flavor. Just be sure to keep the spices the same for that signature flavor!
How Can I Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chili for longer storage—just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about 3 months in the freezer.
Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
Definitely! To kick up the heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or introduce chopped fresh jalapeños or hot sauce. Just remember to start with a little and add more to taste, so it doesn’t get too spicy too quickly!
