Description

The Pioneer Woman Chili recipe delivers hearty comfort with a perfect balance of protein, beans, vegetables, and spices. Unlike traditional thick chili, this version has a delicious chili soup consistency, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles)
1 small onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained & rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained & rinsed
2–3 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
Garnishes: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, avocado slices, tortilla chips

Instructions

Prep: Dice onion, bell pepper, mince garlic, and measure spices.
Brown meat: Heat oil in Dutch oven. Add ground beef, cook 5–7 minutes until browned. Drain fat.
Sauté aromatics: Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook 3–5 minutes until softened.
Build base: Return beef, add chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt & pepper. Toast spices 1–2 minutes.
Add tomatoes & broth: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring to simmer.
Simmer: Cover and cook on low for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add beans: Stir in kidney and pinto beans. Simmer 15 minutes more.
Finish: Taste, adjust seasonings, and serve hot with desired garnishes.

Notes

This chili soup is even better the next day as flavors deepen. Toasting the spices before adding liquids is key to unlocking bold flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Category: Dinner, Soup, Comfort Food
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 385
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 11g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: pioneer woman chili, chili soup, comfort food, hearty chili recipe