Hearty Beef and Bean Chili: Pioneer Woman’s Ultimate Comfort Food

Masa harina gives this chili a subtle corn note and velvety thickness in every spoonful.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 16, 2025

Masa harina gives this chili a subtle corn note and velvety thickness in every spoonful.

Hearty Beef and Bean Chili: The Pioneer Woman’s Classic Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family, look no further than beef and bean chili—a soul-satisfying dish packed with flavor, texture, and endless customization options. Inspired by The Pioneer Woman’s beloved recipe, this guide walks you through every step, offering tips for perfect results, topping inspirations, and expert answers to your most frequently asked questions.

What Makes This Chili Special?

This is no ordinary chili. Drawing on The Pioneer Woman’s signature approach, it combines freshly browned ground beef, a bold chili blend, generous helpings of beans, and a hint of masa harina for an unbeatable heartiness and depth. The result is a rich, thick, and savory chili ideal for weeknight suppers, game day gatherings, or any occasion where comfort is on the menu.

Ingredients

4 lbs. ground beef
6 garlic cloves, minced
2 (8-oz.) cans tomato sauce
1 (6-oz.) can tomato paste
1/4 cup chili powder (plus more to taste)
2 tsp. ground cumin
2 tsp. dried oregano
2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper (or to taste)
4 (15-oz.) cans beans (kidney and pinto), drained and rinsed
1/2 cup masa harina (corn flour) or regular cornmeal
Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, chopped onions, tortilla chips, avocado

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Brown the Beef

In a large heavy-duty pot, add the ground beef and minced garlic. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the beef is fully browned and crumbly. Drain off most of the excess fat (leave a bit for flavor and moisture).

2. Add Flavors

Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices and tomato products are well incorporated through the meat.

3. Simmer

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer gently for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, flavors will intensify and meld. If the mixture appears to dry out, add up to 1½ cups of water as needed to keep it moist but thick.

4. Prepare the Beans

While the chili is simmering, open and drain the beans, then rinse under cold water. This step removes excess sodium and any slick residue from the canning liquid, ensuring a fresh bean texture and flavor in your chili.

5. Add Masa Harina

Stir the masa harina (or cornmeal) into 1 cup of warm water until smooth to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the simmering chili, stirring well. Masa harina gives chili a subtle corn flavor and helps create a thick, luxurious texture. If you don’t have masa harina, regular cornmeal works in a pinch.

6. Add Beans and Final Simmer

Add the rinsed beans to the pot and simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, stirring gently. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—add more chili powder or salt to match your preference.

Tips for the Best Chili

Browning is Key: Don’t rush the beef-browning step. Browning builds flavor through caramelization.
Spice Level: Start mild and add cayenne or extra chili powder to reach your desired heat.
Thread in Liquid Gradually: If the chili looks too thick, add water or beef broth in small amounts until you reach the desired consistency.
Simmer Time: Longer simmering (even up to 2 hours) intensifies the flavors—perfect for a make-ahead meal.
Use Fresh Garlic and Good-Quality Spices: The robust flavor of fresh garlic and fresh spices will shine through.

Favorite Chili Toppings and Sides

Chili shines brightest when customized with a mix of fresh, crunchy, and creamy toppings. Here are topping ideas to take your bowl over the top:

Shredded cheddar cheese
Crumpled bacon
Sliced jalapeños
Sour cream
Chopped green onions or red onions
Avocado cubes
Tortilla chips or cornbread on the side
Lime wedges for tanginess

Classic Toppings	Creative Add-Ons	Crunchy Options
Cheddar cheese	Sliced avocado	Tortilla chips
Crumpled bacon	Pickled jalapeños	Crushed corn chips
Sour cream	Fresh cilantro	Crispy onions

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Chili tastes even better the next day. Let it cool to room temperature, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer-friendly: Divide leftovers into freezer-safe bags or containers; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Batch cooking: This recipe makes a large quantity—cut it in half for a smaller family or double for a party.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Variations: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use cubed chuck roast for extra richness.
Bean Swap: Use black beans or cannellini beans instead of kidney and pinto for a different taste and texture.
Vegetarian Variation: Omit the beef and add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a hearty meatless take.
Spice Customization: Add smoked paprika, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or finely diced fresh chilies for unique undertones.
Thickening without Masa: A tablespoon of instant polenta or a cornstarch slurry can stand in for masa harina in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

Bowl of chili on its own with cheese, chips, and sour cream
Over steamed rice for a satisfying chili bowl
On baked potatoes for a hearty stuffed spud
As a topping for hot dogs or nachos for game day

Expert Tips for Entertaining

Chili Bar: Set out toppings in bowls and let guests customize their chili for parties and potlucks.
Slow Cooker Adaptation: After browning the beef and adding seasoning, transfer to a crockpot. Add beans, masa slurry, and simmer on low for 4–6 hours.
Pressure Cooker Method: Brown meat and spices, add liquids, beans, and masa. Cook under high pressure for 20 minutes, natural release for 10 more minutes.

Nutritional Highlights

High in protein from beef and beans.
Fiber-rich due to the beans.
Moderate carbs—can be further reduced by using fewer beans or omitting cornmeal.
Customize fat content by draining more (or less) beef fat as desired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why do you rinse canned beans before using?

A: Rinsing removes excess sodium and the starchy, sometimes slimy packing liquid, improving both taste and texture in the final dish.

Q: Can I make this chili ahead?

A: Absolutely. Chili improves in flavor after sitting overnight. Prepare as directed, cool, cover, and refrigerate up to 4 days in advance.

Q: What does masa harina do in chili?

A: Masa harina thickens the chili and lends a subtle corn flavor. If you don’t have it, cornmeal is the next best option, and in a pinch, you could use a spoonful of polenta or skip it altogether for a thinner style chili.

Q: What’s the best way to freeze leftovers?

A: Portion cooled chili into airtight containers or bags, label, and freeze flat for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen over gentle heat, adding water if needed.

Q: Can I reduce the recipe?

A: Yes, the recipe can be halved easily for smaller families or personal portions. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Q: Is this chili very spicy?

A: As written, it has a mild heat. Adjust cayenne and chili powder, or use spicy toppings like fresh jalapeño slices, to suit your spice tolerance.

Final Thoughts: The Comfort of Homemade Chili

The Pioneer Woman’s beef and bean chili is more than just a meal—it’s an invitation to gather, share, and savor. Whether ladled over rice, scooped onto nachos, or enjoyed by the steaming bowlful, this classic chili offers warmth and flavor for any occasion. Customize it, make it ahead, and enjoy the rich tradition of homemade comfort food from your kitchen.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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