Looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that’s ready in less time than it takes to watch your favorite TV show? Say hello to this easy chili recipe made in your Instant Pot. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe delivers big, comforting flavors without hours of simmering on the stovetop. The beauty of using an Instant Pot is that it cuts down cooking time significantly, letting you enjoy a satisfying dinner in no time!
If you’re new to the Instant Pot world, don’t worry—this recipe is perfect for beginners. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and total customization options, it's about to become one of your go-to Instant Pot dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need for this quick chili meal. These pantry-friendly ingredients make it easy to whip up a delicious chili any time.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth (or water in a pinch)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional toppings for serving:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Cornbread or tortilla chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Base
Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up for a minute. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they turn soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your chili.
2. Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it down with a wooden spoon until it’s no longer pink. Press "Cancel" to turn off the sauté function when the meat is browned.
3. Add the Seasonings
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, paprika, salt, and pepper. This step ensures the spices coat the meat evenly, enhancing the flavor of your chili.
4. Assemble the Chili
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, and broth. Add the kidney beans and black beans. Give it all a good stir to combine. Make sure no ingredients are stuck to the bottom of the pot, as this can trigger a "burn" warning on your Instant Pot.
5. Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting and adjust the timer to 15 minutes. Once the cooking time is done, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
6. Stir and Serve
Remove the lid and give the chili a good stir. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle your chili into bowls and top it with your favorite toppings. Serve it hot and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors!
Tips for Customization
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and use extra beans or add diced sweet potato for a filling and hearty option.
- Add some heat: If you like your chili extra spicy, throw in a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Sneak in veggies: Finely chop carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers and mix them in during the sauté stage. No one will notice!
- Thicken it up: If you prefer your chili thicker, select the "Sauté" function again after pressure cooking. Simmer for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Batch and freeze: This Instant Pot chili freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply cool completely, transfer to airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Ideas
Pair this hearty chili with a side of fluffy cornbread, crispy tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. It’s also fantastic for game day spreads or family gatherings.
With its rich taste, ease of preparation, and endless customizations, this Instant Pot chili is more than just a quick chili meal—it’s a staple recipe for busy nights. The next time you need a warm, comforting bowl of chili fast, this Instant Pot dinner will have you covered.
Post a Comment