Instant Pot Chili

This Instant Pot chili recipe is perfect for cozy nights and gatherings. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it caters to everyone’s taste buds. You can whip it up quickly in your Instant Pot, making it ideal for busy weekdays or weekend entertaining. Its versatility allows you to customize toppings or serve it with cornbread, making it a standout dish on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot speeds up cooking time, allowing you to enjoy delicious chili in under an hour.
• Flavorful: A blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a robust flavor profile that’s sure to satisfy.
• Versatile: Customize your chili with your favorite toppings or side dishes for a personalized meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with beans, vegetables, and lean protein, this chili remains nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker cuts down cooking time significantly while enhancing flavors through pressure cooking.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for prepping your ingredients quickly and safely.
• Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning for a perfectly balanced chili every time.

Ingredients

This Instant Pot chili recipe is made with ground beef and a rich tomato base that’s layered with spices and seasonings. It’s thick, hearty, and so flavorful.

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion (chopped)
– 1 pound ground beef (90% lean recommended)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
– 2 tablespoons chili powder (see note)
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 4 tablespoons tomato paste
– 14.5 ounce can (1 ¾ cups) low sodium beef broth (or chicken broth)
– 28 ounce can fire roasted crushed tomatoes (or fire roasted diced tomatoes)
– 15 ounce can kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
– 15 ounce can black beans* (rinsed and drained)

How to Make Instant Pot Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Press Sauté to turn on the sauté setting on Instant Pot. Add the olive oil and heat until hot.
1. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it starts to soften.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

1. Add the ground beef to the pot.
2. Cook, stirring frequently to crumble the meat, until browned—about 5 minutes.
3. Drain off any excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Add Garlic

1. Stir in minced garlic.
2. Press Cancel to turn off the sauté function.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add chopped bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, tomato paste, and broth into the pot.
2. Stir well and scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Layer Tomatoes and Beans

1. Carefully add crushed tomatoes and kidney beans on top of other ingredients without stirring them in. This will help prevent a burn warning during pressure cooking.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

1. Close the Instant Pot lid securely.
2. Move the steam release valve to sealing position.
3. Pressure cook on high pressure for 15 minutes; remember that the pot will take time to reach pressure before cooking starts.

Step 7: Release Pressure

1. Once cooking is complete, allow pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes.
2. Then perform a quick release by moving the steam release valve to venting position using a long spoon handle.
3. Once steam has finished escaping and pin drops down, open the lid carefully.

Step 8: Final Touches

1. Stir chili well; if it’s not thick enough for your liking, use the sauté function for a few more minutes until desired consistency is reached.
2. Serve hot with your choice of toppings!

How to Serve Instant Pot Chili

Serving your Instant Pot chili can elevate the meal experience. Whether you prefer it classic or with a twist, there are many ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

Classic Toppings

• Shredded Cheese – A generous sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack adds creaminess and richness.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream balances the spices and provides a cool contrast.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.

Crunchy Additions

• Tortilla Chips – Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping or as a topping for added texture.
• Cornbread – Pairing chili with warm cornbread creates a comforting combination that complements the flavors well.

Fresh Sides

• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices enhance the flavor profile while adding healthy fats.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the dish and enhances its taste.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Chili

Creating the perfect Instant Pot chili is all about balance and technique. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Lean Meat – Opt for 90% lean ground beef to keep your chili rich without excessive grease.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the heat by adding more or less chili powder based on your preference.
• Layer Ingredients Properly – Adding ingredients in layers helps prevent burning during cooking, ensuring even flavor distribution.
• Let It Rest – Allowing your chili to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld flavors for a richer taste.
• Experiment with Beans – Mix different types of beans like pinto or navy beans for varied textures and flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot chili can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping, garlic bread is a classic choice that complements the chili’s flavors well.
2. Coleslaw – The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
3. Rice – Serving your chili over rice helps absorb the flavors and makes it even more filling.
4. Side Salad – A light salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of the chili.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies bring out natural sweetness that pairs nicely with spicy flavors.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges make for a satisfying addition that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot chili, even small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Failing to sauté the onions and beef can result in a less flavorful chili. Always start by sautéing for deeper flavors.
• Overfilling the Pot: Filling the Instant Pot too full can cause it to malfunction. Stick to the recommended ingredient amounts for safe pressure cooking.
• Not Deglazing the Pot: Ignoring any stuck bits on the bottom after sautéing may lead to a burn notice. Make sure to scrape up those bits when adding liquids.
• Stirring Before Cooking: Mixing in tomatoes or beans before pressure cooking can trigger a burn warning. Layer them carefully without stirring for best results.
• Neglecting Natural Pressure Release: Cutting the release time too short can affect texture and flavor. Allow at least 10 minutes for natural pressure release for optimal results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Instant Pot chili in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before placing it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing Instant Pot Chili

• Freeze chili in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning it into smaller servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Instant Pot Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Instant Pot Chili?

The total time is approximately 55 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Chili?

Absolutely! You can add different beans, vegetables, or spices based on your preferences.

What should I serve with Instant Pot Chili?

Consider serving it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal experience.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Instant Pot chili stores well and is perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot chili is a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and versatility allow you to customize it with various ingredients according to your taste. Don’t hesitate to try this comforting recipe!