This Dutch Oven Chili is a warm, hearty dish that brings together tender beef, beans, and spices in a rich, thick sauce. It’s perfect for cozy nights and filling meals!
Chili cooked in a Dutch oven just hits different! It’s fun to make and even better when shared with friends. I love serving it with some crispy corn chips on the side—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vegetable Oil: This is great for cooking the onions and meat, but you can use olive oil or butter if you prefer a different flavor.
Ground Beef: I like to use ground chuck for its flavor and fat content. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken works just as well!
Beans: The kidney and pinto beans add creaminess and texture. Feel free to swap them for black beans or chickpeas if you’re feeling adventurous. Canned beans save time, but soaking and cooking dried beans can enhance the flavor!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are essentials, but you can add more warmth with extra smoked paprika or chili flakes for a kick. Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat tolerance.
Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, green onions or parsley can also add a fresh touch to your chili.
How Do I Get a Deep, Rich Flavor in My Chili?
Building flavor takes some time, and the way you cook your ingredients matters! Start by sautéing the onions until they’re soft and golden; this sweetens them up. Browning the meat well is key—it adds depth.
- Toast the spices: After browning the meat, add spices and cook them briefly. This helps release their essential oils and improves flavor.
- Let it simmer: Allow your chili to cook low and slow—at least an hour. This melds the flavors together beautifully.
- Adjust the seasoning: Right before serving, taste your chili. Adjust salt, and if it’s too acidic, a smidge of brown sugar can balance it out.
And don’t forget to let the chili rest! Like many stews, the flavor deepens as it cools. Enjoy the warmth and comfort this chili brings!
Delicious Dutch Oven Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground chuck)
- 1 pound ground pork (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Dutch Oven Chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and should simmer for at least 1 hour (up to 2 hours for richer flavor). Altogether, you’ll need about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on how long you let it cook. A perfect dish for a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil and Sauté the Onions:
In a large Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic:
Now it’s time to add in the minced garlic. Cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Make sure not to burn the garlic—it adds a beautiful flavor!
3. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (and ground pork if you’re using it) to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix in the Spices:
Next, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and brown sugar. Let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
5. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juices) and the tomato sauce. Also, add the beef broth or water. Stir everything well to combine the ingredients.
6. Incorporate the Beans:
Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and pinto beans to the pot. Mix it all together until well combined.
7. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the Dutch oven with its lid, letting it cook for at least 1 hour and up to 2 hours for the best flavor. Stir occasionally!
8. Final Seasoning:
Before serving, taste the chili. Add salt and pepper to your liking. If it’s too thick, feel free to add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the hot chili in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
10. Optional Additions:
For extra fun, serve your chili with corn chips, sour cream, or diced green onions on the side!
Enjoy your rich, flavorful Dutch Oven Chili, perfect for a cozy meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Chili?
Absolutely! You can mix things up by using ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative if you prefer a vegetarian version. Just be mindful of the cooking times, especially if using leaner meats!
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or try including diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also top the chili with hot sauce before serving for an extra punch!
Can I Make This Chili in Advance?
Yes, it’s perfect for make-ahead meals! You can prepare the chili and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—simply thaw and warm it up when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Can I Serve with Dutch Oven Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortillas. You can also serve it with toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and avocado for added flavor and texture!
