This delicious Dutch Oven Chili is cozy and packed with flavor! It’s made with ground beef, beans, and tasty spices that warm you up nicely. Perfect for cool nights!
I love making this on a Sunday while watching football. The smell fills the house, and I can’t help but sneak in a few spoonfuls while it simmers! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives your chili that rich, meaty flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work well. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or a mix of beans instead.
Kidney Beans: These add texture and protein. If you don’t have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans are excellent alternatives. Just make sure to drain and rinse any canned beans before adding them.
Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: They provide the base for the chili. You could use crushed tomatoes if you prefer a smoother texture. If fresh tomatoes are available, you can dice them up as well.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are stars in this dish! If you want more heat, try adding more cayenne or even some chipotle powder. Don’t hesitate to experiment with smoked paprika for that extra depth of flavor.
How Do I Get My Chili to Have Great Depth of Flavor?
Creating a rich flavor in chili involves layering your ingredients and cooking them properly. Here are my tips to enhance your chili:
- Start by slowly cooking the onions and garlic in oil. This builds a strong flavor base.
- Brown the ground beef well and scramble it to get those tasty bits stuck on the bottom—those can add even more depth.
- After adding spices, let them cook briefly to bloom their flavors before mixing in the liquids. This step ensures that the spices really shine.
- Simmer the chili for at least 45 minutes to let all the ingredients meld together. The longer, the better!
By following these steps, your chili will taste fantastic every time!
How to Make Dutch Oven Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Bread or cornbread (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Dutch Oven Chili will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to simmer. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour of cooking time. This means you can grab a snack while it simmers, making it a perfect dish for busy days or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Base:
In your Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. When it’s hot, add your diced onion. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells heavenly!
2. Brown the Beef:
Now, it’s time to add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir it around until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. If there’s extra fat, feel free to drain it off.
3. Spice It Up:
Next, add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Mix everything well, so all the meat and onions are coated with those delicious spices.
4. Add the Good Stuff:
Pour in the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Give it a good stir, ensuring everything is combined beautifully.
5. Let It Simmer:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cover it with the lid. Let it cook for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This time allows all those wonderful flavors to blend together.
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. It’s all about your personal taste!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Finally, ladle the hot chili into bowls and top it with some shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapeños for that extra kick. Add a dollop of sour cream if you like it creamy! Serve with bread or cornbread on the side for dipping.
This hearty chili is not just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe. Just be aware that it might be a tad less flavorful than beef, so consider adding a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
You can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a mix of beans (like black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas) and adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a complete vegetarian dish!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, you can freeze leftover chili! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Use Instead of Tomato Paste?
If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use a similar amount of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce. Keep in mind that the consistency might be slightly different, so you may want to adjust the liquid ingredients in the recipe accordingly.
