This Dutch Oven Chili is a cozy meal filled with hearty beans, ground meat, and spices. It’s perfect for warming you up on a chilly day!
Plus, it’s super easy! Just toss everything into the pot, let it simmer, and enjoy the yummy aroma filling your kitchen. I love to top mine with cheese—we can’t resist that cheesy goodness! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, but you could swap it out for ground turkey or a meat substitute like lentils or beyond meat for a lighter dish or a vegetarian option.
Beans: Kidney and black beans add protein and texture. If you’re looking for a change, try using pinto beans or chickpeas. Both can bring a unique twist to your chili!
Chili Powder: This spice gives chili its signature flavor. If you want to tone down the heat, use a mild chili powder or swap it for a blend like taco seasoning for a different taste.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to sneak in some extra veggies like corn or zucchini. They add nutrition and can make your chili even heartier!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor Out of My Chili?
Building a flavor base is crucial in chili, and one essential step is sautéing your vegetables. Start by cooking the onions and bell peppers in oil until they’re tender. This releases their natural sweetness and flavors.
- Use medium heat and don’t rush it; around 5 minutes will do.
- When adding spices, toast them briefly after the meat changes color. This step really enhances their flavor.
- Let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the ingredients to mingle and develop depth.
- Taste your chili before serving. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
These tips will help you create a delicious Dutch Oven Chili that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Dutch Oven Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Dutch Oven Chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, stirring frequently. Cook until the vegetables are tender, which should take about 5 minutes. Once they’re soft, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it becomes fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Make sure to cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which typically takes about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pot, feel free to drain it out.
3. Add the Spices:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy). Season with salt and pepper. Toast the spices in the hot mixture for about 1-2 minutes, which will enhance their flavors.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, and both cans of beans. Add the cup of beef broth (or water) and stir well to combine everything together. This will create your delicious chili base!
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the Dutch oven. Allow it to simmer for at least 30 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep the chili from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
6. Final Seasoning and Serving:
Taste your chili before serving and adjust any seasonings as needed. If you like your chili hot, you can add more cayenne or some hot sauce! Serve the chili hot, and don’t forget to sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that extra cheesy goodness!
This hearty, flavorful Dutch Oven Chili makes a comforting and filling meal perfect for chilly days! Enjoy every bite!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes like lentils or black bean burgers work great for a lighter or vegetarian option.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use a mild chili powder instead. You can always add hot sauce later for more heat to individual servings.
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes! This chili is perfect for making ahead. You can make it up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. The flavors will deepen as it sits! Just reheat on the stove before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!