Speedy Smoky Instant Pot Chili: A Hearty Delight!
Looking for a quick and easy instant pot chili recipe? This smoky, hearty dish is perfect for cozy nights in and family gatherings. Get the recipe now!

Quick Hook
Oh my gosh, if you've been searching for the ultimate comfort food, let me tell you about this instant pot chili recipe ! it's like a warm hug in a bowl, combining rich ground beef with hearty beans and spices that just dance on your taste buds.
Seriously, once you’ve tasted this smoky, spicy blend, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last spoonful.
Speedy Smoky Instant Pot Chili: A Hearty Delight! Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 cans (15 oz/425g each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 tablespoons (30g) tomato paste
- 2 cups (480ml) beef (or vegetable) broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
🥄 Instructions:
- Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode. Add olive oil and the diced onion; cook until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Push the vegetables to the side of the pot; add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking for about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, beans, and broth. Stir well, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot.
- Close the lid and set the valve to 'Sealing.' Choose 'Manual' mode and set the timer for 25 minutes.
- Once cooking is done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid, give the chili a good stir, and taste for seasoning. Adjust if necessary.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Brief Overview
Did you know chili has roots in texan and mexican traditions? it’s a dish that tells a story of warmth and community, perfect for those chilly nights.
This instant pot chili recipe is an easy win for anyone who wants a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
With just about 50 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have enough to feed a crowd—serving 6 to 8 people, so invite your friends over for game night!
Main Benefits
Let me be real with you; this chili is not just delicious; it's also pretty healthy. packed with protein and fiber, it fuels you up without weighing you down.
Whether it's a cozy movie night or a backyard barbecue, this dish shines in any setting. what makes it special? the smoky paprika gives it a nice depth, while the beans add that perfect creaminess.
Trust me, your belly will thank you!
And if you’re one of those folks who thinks chili is just a winter dish, think again! serve this on a hot summer day, and by the end, everyone will be begging for the recipe.
It's versatile and easy to customize! you can use turkey instead of beef for a lighter version or throw in some zucchini for that extra veggie power.
So why not give this instant pot chili recipe a whirl? I promise it’ll quickly become one of your go-to easy chili recipes in the kitchen! Now, let's check out what you'll need to gather for this dreamy dish!
Ingredients & Equipment for Instant Pot Chili Recipe
Main Ingredients You Need
First off, let’s gather our essentials for this mouthwatering instant pot chili recipe . Trust me, this is gonna be a hit!
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For the Chili:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or turkey if you're feeling fancy)
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- 1 medium onion , diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 cans (15 oz/425g each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 tablespoons (30g) tomato paste
- 2 cups (480ml) beef (or vegetable) broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Look for brightly colored beans and fresh veggies —that’s your ticket to awesome flavor!
Seasoning Notes
Alright, seasoning is where the magic happens. Here’s what you need to make your chili recipe easy and delicious:
- Essential spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are your MVPs.
- Flavor enhancers: A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth.
- Quick subs: Don’t have chili powder? Mix paprika with a hint of cayenne for heat!
Equipment Needed
Now, let’s talk tools! You don’t need a science lab here; just some trusty kitchen gadgets:
- Instant Pot : This babe does it all—so fast!
- Wooden spoon or spatula : Perfect for stirring without scratching that pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons : Don't eyeball it unless you're a pro!
- Chopping board and knife : For all that chopping—chopping is life, right?
Pro tip: if you don’t have an instant pot, feel free to make this in a slow cooker . just let it simmer for about 6- 8 hours .
Seriously, the best crockpot experience ever!
Wrapping It Up
So there you have it—your roadmap to create a hearty bowl of chili in no time! just mix, cook, and enjoy a cozy night in.
Remember, this easy chili recipe crockpot is versatile, too—swap out ingredients as you please!
Now, go grab your ingredients, fire up that instant pot, and whip up a dish that'll have everyone coming back for seconds.
And hey, don’t forget the cornbread—it’s the best sidekick for this chili! happy cooking, friends!

Cooking Method: Speedy Smoky Instant Pot Chili
Prep Steps
Alright, friends! before we get this chili party started, let’s chat mise en place. this fancy term just means getting everything ready.
Chop those onions, dice the bell pepper, and have your spices lined up. makes life easier when the instant pot starts working its magic!
Now, here comes the time-saving tip: clean as you go! trust me. keeping a tidy kitchen while you cook is a total game changer.
It helps you focus on the deliciousness that’s about to unfold.
Oh, and safety! When you’re handling the Instant Pot, don’t forget to keep that steam valve clear. That’s where all the flavor is gonna come from, but safety first!
Step-by-Step Process
Sauté the aromatics: set your instant pot to "sauté" mode and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil . toss in 1 diced onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 3- 4 minutes .
Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 diced bell pepper — let them mingle for another 2- 3 minutes.
Brown the meat: push the veggies to the side and add 1 pound of ground beef (or turkey if you're feeling lighter).
Cook it up for about 5- 7 minutes , breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it's all browned.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix it good!
Add remaining ingredients: pour in 2 cans of drained kidney beans , 1 can of diced tomatoes , and 2 cups of beef broth .
Make sure to scrape any goodies stuck on the bottom!
Pressure Cook the Chili: Close the lid, set the valve to "Sealing," and choose "Manual" for 25 minutes.
Release Pressure: After cooking, let it naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes. Then you can manually release it. Careful, steam warning!
Serve: Give your chili a hearty stir and taste it. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and don’t forget those toppings!
Pro Tips
Now, let’s add some expert techniques! First, consider splashing in a little beer or Worcestershire sauce while cooking — super fancy, right?
Be cautious of overcooking the meat. It can turn sad and crumbly if you’re not careful. Oh, and don’t skip that natural pressure release! It makes everything so much better.
Planning ahead? You can make this chili a day in advance! Just let it cool and pop it in the fridge. The flavors get even better overnight. Easy chili recipe crockpot style!
So, there you go! this instant pot chili recipe is not just super simple; it’s downright comforting. perfect for chilly days or game nights.
Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of chili wafting through the house? now get out there and whip up a batch of this crockpot chili! you won't regret it!
Recipe Notes for Speedy Smoky Instant Pot Chili
Serving Suggestions
Let’s talk plating , my friends! when you serve your instant pot chili recipe , it’s all about the presentation.
Try spooning that thick, hearty chili into a deep bowl, and then crown it with sour cream, fresh cilantro , and a sprinkle of shredded cheese .
You want to elevate that comfort food to vip status! now, as far as sides go, buttered cornbread is the classic pairing, but honestly, have you tried it with crusty bread or even some tortilla chips ? oh man, that crunchy contrast? perfection.
And don’t forget a nice, cold lager or a spritz of lime soda to wash it down.
Storage Tips
Now, onto the leftovers (because let’s be real, this chili makes a ton). you can pop it in the fridge for up to 4-5 days —just make sure you let it cool first.
And if you’re feeling like a meal-prepping superstar, freeze it! it’ll keep well for about 3 months in an airtight container.
Need to reheat? just zap it in the microwave, or put it back on the stove with a splash of water to loosen it up.
Variations
If you want to switch things up, how about a vegetarian twist ? just swap out the ground meat for mushrooms and zucchini, and load up on beans! feeling adventurous? toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne for a fiery spicy chili .
You can even throw this together as a slow cooker chili —that's a solid choice for those busy days!
Nutrition Basics
Now, let’s chat nutrition. this easy chili recipe crockpot packs in about 320 calories per serving and is loaded with 25g protein .
The beans are not just for fun; they’re high in fiber , which is great for digestion. plus, you’re getting those heart-healthy benefits from the beef or turkey.
Honestly, who doesn't want a bowl of healthy goodness that warms your soul?
So, whether you're whipping up this chili recipe easy on a cozy night or prepping for a friends’ gathering, this dish is a winner! trust me, once you try this instant pot chili recipe , you’ll be coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
Enjoy every delicious bite!

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this instant pot chili recipe special?
This instant pot chili recipe is a splendid mix of smoky flavors, hearty beans, and perfectly seasoned ground meat, all cooked under pressure for a quick and delicious meal. Made in a fraction of the time it takes on the stove, it brings the taste of Texan tradition right to your dining table!
Can I make this instant pot chili recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make a vegetarian version by swapping out the meat for a mix of beans and veggies, such as mushrooms, zucchini, and corn. With the same delicious spices, you might not even miss the meat!
How can I store leftovers from my instant pot chili?
To store leftovers, let the chili cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it so you don't forget what's inside!
What are some cooking tips for the best instant pot chili?
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of beer or Worcestershire sauce during cooking. Also, leaving the pressure to release naturally for a bit enhances the taste by allowing time for the flavors to marry beautifully. Don’t skip this step!
Can I customize the spice level in this chili recipe?
Definitely! To adjust the spice level, feel free to add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes. Tasting as you go is the key to finding your perfect level of heat!
What can I serve with my instant pot chili?
Instant pot chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crusty bread for that comforting touch. You might also enjoy it with fresh guacamole, tortilla chips, or a sprinkle of cheese on top. Pair it with a chilled lager or a zesty lime soda for a delightful meal!
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