Chipotle Chili is a warm and cozy dish packed with flavors! It combines smoky chipotle peppers, tender beans, and hearty vegetables, creating a perfect meal for chilly days.
This chili is a big hug in a bowl. I love topping mine with cheese and sour cream—it just makes it better, right? Plus, it’s easy to whip up and great for leftovers!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey or even plant-based meat can work well, especially if you’re looking for a lighter option. Both will still give you a hearty chili.
Chipotle Peppers: Chipotle peppers in adobo add a unique smoky flavor. If they’re too spicy for you, reduce the amount or try smoked paprika as a milder alternative.
Beans: Kidney beans are traditional, but black beans or white beans can be good substitutes. They add nice texture and flavor, plus they’re great for variety!
Tomato Sauce: Using canned tomato sauce is super convenient. If you’re out, you could blend fresh tomatoes or use crushed tomatoes instead. Just adjust the seasoning since fresh tomatoes can be less concentrated in flavor.
How Do I Get My Onions and Garlic Perfectly Cooked?
The secret to a tasty base starts with onions and garlic. First, sauté the diced onion in olive oil until soft and translucent; this usually takes about 5 minutes. It’s essential not to rush this process.
- Next, add the minced garlic. Sauté for just about a minute; you don’t want it to burn. Burnt garlic can taste bitter!
- Make sure the heat is medium, so everything cooks evenly. If you add garlic too soon, it may brown before the onion is ready.
Perfectly cooked onions and garlic create a wonderful aroma and deep flavor that enhances the entire chili! Enjoy making your Chipotle Chili!
Delicious Chipotle Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from chipotle can)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth (optional, for desired consistency)
- For Garnish: sliced jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chipotle Chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-45 minutes to cook. Altogether, plan for around an hour to enjoy a comforting and hearty meal. It’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a lovely foundation of flavor!
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon while it cooks. Brown the meat for about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it out for a leaner chili.
3. Mix in the Key Ingredients:
Now it’s time to stir in those flavorful ingredients. Add in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, minced chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce. Stir everything together until well combined; you’ll start to see the vibrant colors blend together!
4. Spice it Up:
Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chili. If you like a saucier consistency, pour in the broth now and give it another mix.
5. Let it Simmer:
Bring your chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let everything simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together. If you have the time, let it simmer for even longer for a richer taste!
6. Final Adjustments:
After simmering, taste your chili. Adjust the seasonings or add more chipotle if you like extra heat. Enjoy the aroma—it’s so inviting!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Dish up the chili in bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. I love adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar, and some fresh cilantro. Slice up some jalapeños for an extra kick if you dare!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your Chipotle Chili warm, alongside some tortilla chips or cornbread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for cozy nights or sharing with family and friends. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different twist. Just ensure they’re drained and rinsed before adding them to the chili.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegeterian/Vegan?
To make a vegetarian or vegan version, simply replace the ground beef or turkey with a combination of mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite meat substitute. Also, ensure that the broth used is vegetable broth!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Chili Spice Level Adjustments?
Yes! If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or omit them and use smoked paprika instead. Conversely, for more heat, add extra chipotle or even sprinkle in some cayenne pepper to taste!