This Chipotle Chili Recipe is a hearty, smoky delight that wraps your senses in warmth and spice. With layers of rich tomato, tender beans, and a kick of chipotle peppers, every bite is a satisfying balance of bold flavors and comforting textures.
In just 15 minutes of prep and an hour of cooking, you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. The smoky aroma fills your kitchen, while the savory depth and hint of heat make it irresistible. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a meal that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients for Chipotle Chili
- 1 ½-2 pounds lean ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat)
- 1 medium sweet potato, cubed (peeled or unpeeled, your choice)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (yellow or white onion works best)
- 1 bell pepper, any color, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ¼ cup chili powder (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes (canned, with juices)
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 15.5 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed (or substitute with black beans)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped (adjust for desired heat level)
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce (from the adobo can)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the beef: Place ground beef in a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it into small pieces, until no longer pink. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of excess fat and return the pot to the heat.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the sweet potato, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened.
- Season the mixture: Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
- Combine remaining ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chopped chipotle peppers, and chipotle sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If the chili is too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency. Serve hot with sour cream and shredded cheese, if desired.
Spice It Up: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Take your Chipotle Chili to the next level with creative sauces and toppings! Try a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a cool contrast to the smoky heat. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for extra richness. For a fresh twist, add chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice. Feeling adventurous? Drizzle with avocado crema or serve with warm cornbread on the side.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This hearty chili is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with sides! Serve it over steamed rice or with tortilla chips for dipping. For a low-carb option, try it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables can balance the richness, while a cold Mexican lager or sparkling water with lime makes a refreshing drink companion.
Make It Last: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave in 1-minute intervals. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of water or beef broth to bring it back to the perfect consistency.
Customize It: Recipe Variations
This recipe is super flexible! Swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or go vegetarian by using lentils or crumbled tofu. Experiment with different beans like black beans or pinto beans. For extra heat, add more chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chipotle sauce or use just one pepper.
Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks
Short on time? Use pre-chopped sweet potatoes and frozen diced onions to cut down on prep. You can also brown the beef in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. For a hands-off approach, try making this chili in a slow cooker—just combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Chipotle Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½-2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium sweet potato cubed
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 bell pepper any color, diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ¼ cup chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 15.5 ounces kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 2 tablespoon chipotle sauce
Instructions
- Place ground beef in a large stock pot set over medium-high heat. Cook the beef for 5-7 minutes, until it’s no longer pink. Drain all but about 1 tablespoon of excess fat and return the pot to the heat.
- Add in the sweet potato, onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook for 5-7 more minutes, stirring frequently, until vegetables are softened.
- Next, stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper; cook for 2 minutes.
- Add in tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chipotle peppers, and chipotle sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chili thickens and flavors come together.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary, adding water or beef broth to thin it out if desired. Serve with sour cream and shredded cheese if desired.