The Ultimate Instant Pot Chili Recipe: Quick, Easy, and Delicious!
Are you craving a hearty, flavorful chili but short on time? Look no further! This Instant Pot chili recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in a fraction of the time. Perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the magic of pressure cooking with this incredibly easy and adaptable chili recipe!
Why Use an Instant Pot for Chili?
The Instant Pot revolutionizes chili making. Forget hours of simmering on the stovetop! This versatile appliance delivers tender, flavorful chili in a fraction of the time, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy your delicious meal. Here's why it's the best way to make chili:
- Speed: Achieve perfectly cooked chili in under an hour, compared to several hours on the stovetop.
- Convenience: Minimal stirring and monitoring are required. Simply set it and forget it!
- Flavor: The pressure cooking process intensifies the flavors of the ingredients, resulting in a richer, more complex chili.
- Versatility: This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferred spice level and ingredients.
Ingredients for the Best Instant Pot Chili
This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings of delicious chili. Adjust the quantities as needed to fit your crowd.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for a flavorful chili.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional): Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional): Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, or a blend): Lean ground beef is recommended for a healthier chili.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The base of your delicious chili.
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds fiber and protein.
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Another classic chili bean.
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds a unique flavor and texture.
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained: Adds a spicy kick.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth of flavor and liquid to the chili.
- 2 tbsp chili powder: The heart of your chili's flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp cumin: Earthy and warm spice that pairs well with chili.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp oregano: Adds a slightly bitter, earthy note.
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste): For those who prefer a spicier chili.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your preference.
Step-by-Step Instant Pot Chili Instructions
Get ready to experience chili perfection!
- Sauté: Turn the Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add the olive oil and sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and bell peppers (if using) and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
- Brown the meat: Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Pressure cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
- Natural pressure release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish as desired with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or green onions.
Tips and Variations for Your Instant Pot Chili
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add some veggies: Include corn, carrots, zucchini, or other vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or a vegetarian crumbles for a hearty vegetarian chili.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe can be easily adapted for a slow cooker. Simply brown the beef as instructed and transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
This Instant Pot chili recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy! Remember to share your delicious creations and tag us!
