This Instant Pot chili with ground beef is a simple and filling meal made in one pot. It cooks quickly and brings out rich, deep flavors in every bite. The combination of beef, beans, and spices creates a warm and satisfying dish.
Using the Instant Pot makes this easy Instant Pot chili recipe fast and convenient. Everything cooks together under pressure, helping the flavors blend well. It is a great option for a quick lunch or dinner.
Check out 15 easy Instant Pot Beef Dinner Recipes
Why You Will Love This Easy Instant Pot Chili Recipe
- Quick cooking time with the Instant Pot
- One pot meal with easy cleanup
- Rich and bold chili flavor
- Uses simple pantry staples
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Filling and satisfying
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chili with Ground Beef
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Instant Pot Chili
- Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef for a lighter pressure cooker chili
- Pinto beans or white beans can be used instead of kidney or black beans
- Crushed tomatoes can replace diced tomatoes for a smoother texture
- Vegetable broth works well in place of beef broth
- Increase chili powder or add cayenne for a spicier Instant Pot chili with ground beef
- Add a small amount of sugar if the tomatoes taste too acidic
Step-by-Step Instant Pot Chili Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Instant Pot using sauté mode
Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add oil and allow it to heat for about 1 minute. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the onion becomes soft and slightly translucent.
Step 2: Cook garlic and brown the ground beef
Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook for 5 to 6 minutes. Break the meat into small pieces using a spoon. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 3: Add spices and tomato paste for deeper flavor
Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the spices coat the beef evenly. Add tomato paste and mix thoroughly. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes to slightly caramelize and deepen the flavor.
Step 4: Deglaze the pot and add remaining ingredients
Pour in a small amount of beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to remove any browned bits. This helps prevent the burn notice. Add the remaining broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Pressure cook the chili
Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Select high pressure and cook for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Then carefully release any remaining pressure.
Step 6: Open, stir, and adjust consistency
Open the lid and stir the chili well. If the chili is too thick, add a small amount of water or broth. If it is too thin, turn on sauté mode and simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
Step 7: Serve warm
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the Instant Pot chili warm with desired toppings.
Tips for the Best Instant Pot Chili with Ground Beef
- Always deglaze the pot to avoid the burn warning
- Browning the beef properly improves flavor
- Use fresh spices for stronger taste
- Let the chili rest for a few minutes before serving
- Adjust thickness by simmering or adding liquid
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end
Variations and Add-Ins for Instant Pot Chili
- Add corn for sweetness and texture
- Include diced bell peppers for extra flavor
- Add chopped jalapeños for heat
- Stir in cooked pasta for a chili pasta variation
- Use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
- Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or herbs
What to Serve with Instant Pot Chili
- Steamed rice
- Cornbread
- Dinner rolls
- Tortilla chips
- Baked potatoes
- Simple green salad
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months
- Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating
- Reheat on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally
- Add water or broth if the chili becomes too thick
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval
Instant Pot Chili with Ground Beef
Ingredients
Method
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add oil and heat for 1 minute. Add diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it apart into small crumbles until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the meat evenly. Add tomato paste and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously to develop a deeper flavor.
- Pour in a small amount of beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add remaining broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Select high pressure and set the timer for 10 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and stir the chili. If a thicker consistency is desired, turn on sauté mode and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. If thinner, add a small amount of broth. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Notes
- Always deglaze the pot after browning the beef to prevent a burn warning
- Browning the ground beef well adds deeper flavor to the chili
- Adjust spice level by adding more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne
- For a thicker chili, simmer on sauté mode for a few extra minutes
- For a thinner consistency, add a small amount of broth or water
- Beans should be drained and rinsed to reduce excess salt and starch
- This Instant Pot chili with ground beef tastes even better after resting for a few hours
- Fresh spices will give the best flavor in this easy Instant Pot chili recipe
- Leftovers can be used for chili bowls, wraps, or loaded baked potatoes
This easy Instant Pot chili with ground beef is a reliable and flavorful meal that is simple to prepare. The pressure cooking process helps develop rich taste in a short time, making it a great option for everyday cooking.
It is versatile, easy to store, and works well for both fresh meals and leftovers. This Instant Pot chili recipe is a practical addition to any meal plan.
