This Dutch Oven Chili is hearty and full of flavor! It combines juicy ground beef, beans, and a mix of spices, all cooked to perfection in one pot. Easy cleanup is a win!
The best part? It gets better the longer it sits, so leftovers are a real treat. I like to top mine with cheese and cornbread on the side—perfect comfort food for any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground chuck for its perfect fat content, making the chili juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or plant-based ground meat works great as well!
Beans: Kidney and black beans add both texture and protein. If you’re not a fan of black beans, feel free to swap with pinto beans or leave them out altogether. You can add more kidney beans instead!
Spices: Chili powder is key for flavor, but don’t hesitate to customize the spices! Adding more cumin or a dash of coriander can brighten the dish. If you want more heat, look for chipotle powder or diced jalapeños.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are super convenient. If you have fresh tomatoes, about 4 cups diced will work too! You can also use roasted tomatoes for a richer flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Chili?
The secret to great chili is all in the simmering! After adding in your ingredients, let the chili simmer gently for at least an hour. This helps meld all the flavors together for a hearty dish.
- Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom, and taste as you go to adjust seasoning.
- If time allows, you can even let it sit longer. It really improves the flavor!
Don’t forget, if you’re preparing ahead of time, chili is amazing the next day! Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Dutch Oven Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 pounds ground beef (or ground chuck)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups 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, adjust to heat preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
- Sliced fresh jalapeños, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty Dutch Oven Chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 1 hour to cook and simmer. With a little bit of time and care, you’ll have a delicious, warming meal perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Meat:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink—this should take about 8 minutes.
2. Add Aromatics:
If there’s a lot of excess fat, drain it off. Next, add the diced onion. Cook it for about 5 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and stir it in, cooking for another 30 seconds until it’s aromatic. Yum!
3. Spice It Up:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together so the meat and onions are well-coated with the spices.
4. Add the Good Stuff:
Mix in the tomato paste and the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Then, add the kidney and black beans, followed by the beef broth. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer and Cook:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the Dutch oven with the lid and let it gently simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The flavors will deepen and meld beautifully during this time!
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want it spicier, add more cayenne or other spices!
7. Serving:
Serve your chili hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro if you like. Grab some cornbread on the side for a perfect finishing touch!
This Dutch Oven Chili is warm, hearty, and sure to bring smiles at the dinner table. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Chili?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as leaner meats may cook faster.
Is It Possible to Make This Chili Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. You can also add more beans or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for extra heartiness!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s also freezer-friendly, lasting up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave!
What Can I Serve with Dutch Oven Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side salad to balance things out!
