When the craving for comfort food hits, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of chili. Instant Pot Beef Chili with Beans is the perfect dish to warm your soul and delight your taste buds. Packed with bold flavors, tender beef, and nutritious beans, this one-pot wonder is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. As one food lover puts it, “Chili is the dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.” Let’s dive into creating this savory masterpiece in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods.
- Rich Flavor: The pressure cooking intensifies the bold spices and flavors.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it’s a wholesome meal in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 500g (1 lb) | Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. |
| Kidney beans | 1 can (400g/14 oz) | Drained and rinsed. |
| Black beans | 1 can (400g/14 oz) | Optional; adds extra fiber and protein. |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced | Sweet or yellow onion works best. |
| Garlic cloves | 4, minced | Fresh garlic for a robust flavor. |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (400g/14 oz) | Fire-roasted for added depth of flavor. |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | Thickens the chili and enhances the richness. |
| Beef broth | 1 cup | Use low-sodium broth for better control of salt. |
| Chili powder | 2 tbsp | Adjust to your spice preference. |
| Ground cumin | 1 tbsp | Adds earthy warmth to the dish. |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp | Optional; enhances the smoky flavor. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed. |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing. |
| Toppings | As desired | Shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Drain and rinse the beans.
- Measure out your spices for easy access.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and heat the olive oil.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Brown the Beef
- Add the ground beef to the Instant Pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Add the Spices and Tomato Paste
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the tomato paste, mixing well to coat the beef and aromatics.
5. Combine the Remaining Ingredients
- Pour in the beef broth and canned tomatoes, stirring to deglaze the bottom of the pot (this prevents the burn warning).
- Add the kidney beans and black beans, giving everything a good mix.
6. Cook Under Pressure
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.”
- Cook on “Manual” (or “Pressure Cook”) mode for 10 minutes.
- Once the timer goes off, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
7. Serve and Garnish
- Open the lid and give the chili a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro.
Tips for the Best Chili
- Deglazing is Key: Always scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot after sautéing to avoid triggering the burn warning.
- Customize the Spice Level: Add cayenne pepper or fresh jalapeños for extra heat.
- Texture Matters: For a thicker chili, mash a portion of the beans before adding them.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This chili freezes beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fiber | 9g |
| Sodium | 750mg |
(Note: Values are approximate and depend on exact ingredients used.)
Why This Recipe is a Weeknight Hero
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
- Family-Approved: A crowd-pleaser even for picky eaters.
As one satisfied cook says, “This recipe turned my busy weekday into a cozy family dinner night.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well in this recipe.
2. What beans can I substitute?
Pinto beans or white beans are excellent alternatives to kidney and black beans.
3. How long does chili last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, chili stays fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
4. Can I make this chili spicy?
Yes! Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
Final Thoughts
Instant Pot Beef Chili with Beans is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a game night, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a warm bowl of goodness, this chili hits the mark every time.
So, roll up your sleeves and let your Instant Pot do the heavy lifting. Don’t forget to share your culinary triumph with friends and family—because great food is meant to be enjoyed together. Happy cooking!