Instant Pot Chili

  |  
Mar 3, 2025
Instant Pot Chili

Instant Pot Chili

Robust and spicy chili with ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, simmered to perfection in an Instant Pot. A hearty, warming meal ideal for cold weather.

Nutrition

Calories: 350cal
Carbohydrate: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: – -mg
Sodium: 800mg

Difficulty Level: easy

15 min Prep
20 min Cook
35 min Total
6 Servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
  • 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Turn Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode (normal heat setting, ~300°F). Add olive oil and let it heat for 1 minute.
  2. Add diced onions and sauté for 2 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned (5-6 minutes). Tip: Drain excess grease if needed for a leaner chili.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until meat is coated.
  5. Pour in beef broth and use the wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this adds flavor!).
  6. Add diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Secure the Instant Pot lid. Set to ‘Pressure Cook’ on HIGH for 15 minutes. Ensure the steam release valve is sealed.
  8. After cooking, let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
  9. Optional thickening: Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir into chili. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.