This classic Dutch oven chili recipe is packed with a harmonious blend of spices, aromatic vegetables, and tender ground beef, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a one-pot wonder that doesn't require extensive prep work or complicated techniques, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade chili with minimal effort.
This chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers. The flavors continue to develop and intensify, providing a satisfying hearty meal option throughout the week or for a quick lunch for the entire family.
This was inspired by my Instant Pot Pumpkin Chili on this site.
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Ingredients
- canola oil
- ground beef
- onion diced
- bell pepper diced or red bell pepper
- cloves of garlic minced
- diced tomatoes or tomato sauce
- kidney beans raised and drained or black beans,pinto beans
- cumin
- chili powder
- cinnamon
- garlic powder
- green onions sliced
- beef broth or chicken broth
- salt
- black pepper
See recipe card for quantities.
How to make the Dutch Oven chili - Step by Step
Heat your large Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm up, and then add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and let it brown to perfection.
Dice the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic cloves. Add them to the Dutch oven and let them sautรฉ with the beef until they turn tender and golden.
Add the rest of the ingredeints. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld
Lower the heat and let your chili simmer in the Dutch oven for about an hour. This will allow the flavors to mingle and intensify.
Remove from heat, serve in bowls, and garnish with green onions
This Dutch Oven Chili is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it alongside cornbread, rice, or even with a side of tortilla chips for dipping.
Hint: Letting the chili simmer for an hour allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender. However, if you're short on time, you can simmer it for at least 30 minutes. Just keep in mind that the longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will be.
Variations
Smoky Chipotle Chili: Add a smoky twist to your chili by incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Finely chop 1 or 2 chipotle peppers (adjust for desired spiciness) and stir them into the chili during the simmering stage. The smoky and slightly sweet flavor of chipotle will give your chili a delicious depth
Storage
Store chili in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
You can also freeze the leftover Dutch oven chili. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Label and date the containers, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
While ground beef is the traditional choice for chili, you can experiment with other ground meat like ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of different meats for a unique flavor profile.
How spicy is this chili?
The level of spiciness in the chili can be adjusted to your liking. The combination of cumin, chili powder, and green bell pepper provides a mild to medium level of heat. If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add additional cayenne pepper or incorporate some chopped jalapeรฑos pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
Can I make this chili in a regular pot instead of a Dutch oven?
While a Dutch oven is ideal for slow cooking and distributing heat evenly, you can still make delicious chili in a regular large pot.
What are some suggested toppings for Dutch Oven Chili?
The possibilities for toppings are endless! Some popular choices include shredded cheese (cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack), sour cream, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeรฑos, crushed tortilla chips, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice, they are all great toppings.
Chili and stew recipes
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Dutch Oven Chili
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced minced
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1 can (17 oz) kidney beans raised and drained
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tabespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 green onions sliced
- 1 cup beef broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ยฝ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat your large Dutch oven over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm up, and then add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and let it brown to perfection.
- Dice the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic cloves. Add them to the Dutch oven and let them sautรฉ with the beef until they turn tender.
- Add the rest of the ingredients. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld
- Lower the heat and let your chili simmer in the Dutch oven for about an hour. This will allow the flavors to intensify.
- Remove from heat, serve in bowls and garnish with green onions
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