Name: Instant Pot Chili Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth

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If you are craving a meal that warms your soul and fills your kitchen with incredible aromas, this Instant Pot Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, hearty dish loaded with tender ground beef, creamy beans, juicy tomatoes, and a blend of spices that create the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and comforting flavors. Thanks to the Instant Pot, this chili comes together quickly without sacrificing any of the rich depth you’d expect from a slow-simmered chili, making it ideal for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or whenever you want a bowl of pure comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of various ingredients on a white marbled surface. There are two halves of a red bell pepper in the bottom left corner. Above them is a small white plate holding two red onions and a small amount of minced garlic. To the right are four cans: pinto beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and light red kidney beans, arranged in a loose cluster. A small white bowl with five different spices in separate sections sits near the center. A measuring cup filled with a light brown liquid is in the top right corner. To its left, there is a white tray of raw ground meat and below that, a pack of applewood smoked bacon. A black measuring spoon is placed near the center-left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All the ingredients in this Instant Pot Chili Recipe are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the aromatic onions to the rich tomato paste, every element combines to create that classic chili experience we all love.

Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
Onion: Provides sweetness and depth when softened at the start.
Garlic: Adds an unmistakable punch of fragrant flavor.
Ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this chili filling and meaty.
Chili powder: The star spice that sets the classic chili tone with warmth and mild heat.
Ground cumin: Brings the earthy undertone that complements the chili powder perfectly.
Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth to give the chili a subtle complexity.
Oregano: A hint of herbal brightness to balance the spices.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
Kidney beans: Bring a creamy texture and hearty bite.
Black beans: Add variety in texture and earthy flavor.
Diced tomatoes: Provide juiciness and tang to the chili base.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and helps thicken the chili.
Beef broth: Adds moisture and deepens the savory profile.

How to Make Instant Pot Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the Sauté function and warming the olive oil. Gently cook the diced onion until it softens and becomes translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Adding the garlic next, cook just long enough for its fragrance to fill the pot—about 30 seconds. Then, toss in the ground beef, breaking it up with your spoon as it browns. This step locks in flavor and creates that rich, meaty base that every great chili needs. If you notice any excess fat, don’t hesitate to drain it to keep your chili from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Add the Spices for Bold Flavor

Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper directly into the browned beef mixture. Stir thoroughly so every bit of meat is coated in these warm spices, ensuring that each spoonful of chili burst with perfectly balanced seasoning.

Step 3: Combine Beans, Tomatoes, and Broth

Next, pour in the kidney beans and black beans, followed by the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir so the tomato paste melts into the broth, thickening the mixture and blending all the flavors together. This combination creates the heart and soul of your chili, rich and inviting.

Step 4: Pressure Cook for Perfectly Tender Results

Seal the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to Sealing. Select the High Pressure setting and set the timer for 15 minutes. Pressure cooking is a game-changer for chili, locking in flavors and tenderizing the ingredients quickly without any fuss.

Step 5: Release Pressure and Final Touches

Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes; this gentle finish helps keep the chili luscious and thick. After that, carefully quick release any remaining pressure. Give the chili a good stir and taste it, adjusting salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a thicker chili, simply use the Sauté function for a few minutes until it reaches the consistency you love.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chili Recipe

Garnishes

The fun part of serving your Instant Pot Chili Recipe is all the garnishes! Fresh shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro add cool, creamy, and bright contrasts to the warm chili. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime for a fresh pop of acidity, or some diced avocado if you want to add a creamy texture.

Side Dishes

Consider pairing this chili with simple sides that complement without overpowering. Cornbread, whether crumbly or sweetened, is the classic choice, perfect for soaking up every last drop. Tortilla chips also work wonderfully for scooping, and a crisp green salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the chili’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your bowl of chili into a fun feast by serving it over baked potatoes, rice, or even pasta for a chili mac twist. For a casual gathering, set up a chili bar with toppings and sides laid out so everyone can customize their perfect bowl. You might even stuff it inside warm tortillas for chili tacos that will wow the whole family!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chili stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld and improve overnight, making it one of those meals that tastes better the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze your Instant Pot Chili Recipe for up to 3 months without losing texture or flavor. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat chili gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in a covered bowl. If the chili has thickened too much after refrigeration, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up as it warms.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for a lighter version of this Instant Pot Chili Recipe without sacrificing flavor. Just brown the meat thoroughly like you would beef.

Is it necessary to drain the beans before adding them?

Yes, draining and rinsing canned beans helps reduce excess sodium and prevents the chili from becoming too liquidy. It also ensures cleaner flavors and texture.

How spicy is this chili, and can I adjust the heat?

This recipe is moderately spiced with warmth rather than intense heat. You can easily adjust by increasing or decreasing the chili powder or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for more kick.

Can I make this chili without an Instant Pot?

If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still make this chili on the stovetop by simmering it gently for at least 45 minutes until all flavors meld and the meat is tender.

What if I want a thicker chili?

After the pressure cooking step, use the Sauté mode to simmer the chili uncovered for a few minutes. This lets excess liquid evaporate and thickens the chili to your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Chili Recipe is a delicious, fuss-free way to bring comfort food to your table any day of the week. With its bold spices, hearty ingredients, and that unparalleled ease thanks to pressure cooking, it quickly becomes more than just a meal—it’s a go-to favorite you’ll want to share with everyone. Give it a try and discover just how effortless and rewarding homemade chili can be!