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Delicious Pioneer Woman's easy chili recipe in a bowl for family dinner.

Pioneer Woman's Chili

A hearty, flavorful chili packed with ground beef, spices, and beans perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 7 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds Ground Beef Use lean ground beef for less grease.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
  • 1 can (8 ounces) Tomato Sauce Can substitute with crushed tomatoes.
  • 1/4 cup Chili Powder Adjust based on your heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adds earthiness to the chili.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Optional for added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional for added heat.
  • 1/2 cup Masa Harina Substitute with cornstarch for thickening.
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) Kidney Beans or Pinto Beans, drained and rinsed Can use any canned beans you prefer.

Method
 

Cooking the Chili
  1. Place the ground beef and minced garlic in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook until the beef is completely browned and no longer pink.
  2. Drain the excess fat from the pot and return the beef to the heat.
  3. Add the tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper to the beef and stir to incorporate.
  4. Pour in 1.5 cups of water. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk the masa harina with 1/2 cup of warm water until a smooth slurry is formed.
  6. Stir the masa slurry into the chili until fully integrated.
  7. Add the drained beans to the pot and stir gently.
  8. Simmer the chili uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the desired thickness is reached.
  9. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving hot.

Notes

Use fresh spices for maximum flavor. Cooking the chili longer allows flavors to meld. Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke or diced smoky sausage. Always prepare more beans than needed; leftovers work excellent in other meals or salads.