If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out, this Pioneer Woman Chili With Chuck Roast is exactly what you need. Made with tender chunks of slow-cooked beef, smoky spices, tomatoes, and beans, this chili delivers bold flavor in every bite. Whether you’re prepping for game night, feeding the family, or planning a weekend meal, this hearty chili never disappoints.
Slow-cooked chuck roast creates a deep, rich, beefy base, while the mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and paprika adds that signature Southwestern aroma you expect from a true comfort-food classic.
A Quick Look at Pioneer Woman Chili With Chuck Roast
This dish is a rustic, Tex-Mex-inspired chili made with tender pieces of chuck roast simmered in tomatoes, aromatics, and spices. Unlike traditional ground beef chili, this recipe has a more robust texture and a fuller, meatier flavor. Cook it low and slow—on the stovetop or in a slow cooker—for beef that melts in your mouth and a sauce that thickens beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Recipe
- Rich, Deep Beef Flavor – Chuck roast makes the chili incredibly hearty.
- Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day.
- Perfect for Gatherings – A true crowd-pleaser for parties and potlucks.
- Adjustable Spice Level – Make it mild or fiery—your choice.
- Freezer-Friendly – Stores well for quick future meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt & pepper to taste
Helpful Tools
- Dutch oven or heavy pot
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cutting board
- Slow cooker (optional)
How to Make Pioneer Woman Chili With Chuck Roast
Step 1 – Sear the Beef
Heat oil in your pot over medium-high. Brown the chuck roast cubes on all sides, then remove and set them aside. This step adds amazing flavor.
Step 2 – Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until they soften and release fragrance.
Step 3 – Add the Spices
Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir for 30 seconds to let the spices bloom.
Step 4 – Build the Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine, then return the seared beef to the pot.
Step 5 – Slow Simmer
Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat becomes tender and the sauce thickens.
Step 6 – Add the Beans
Stir in the kidney beans and cook for another 15 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Step 7 – Taste & Adjust
Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Common Mistakes I Made (And How I Fixed Them)
- Overcooked the Beef
I simmered on high heat at first—now I keep the heat low for tenderness. - Chili Became Too Thick
Adding extra beef broth balanced the texture. - Spices Overpowered the Dish
Cut back slightly on chili powder and added more tomato sauce. - Forgot to Sear the Meat
Never skipping this step again—it brings huge flavor.
Healthier Ways to Make This Chili
- Swap part of the beef for lean ground turkey.
- Use low-sodium broth and beans.
- Add extra veggies like corn, zucchini, or carrots.
- Stick to heart-healthy oils like avocado or olive oil.
- Rely on natural sweetness from tomatoes instead of added sugar.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Chuck Roast: Brisket or stewing beef works well.
- Tomato Sauce: Use blended fresh tomatoes.
- Kidney Beans: Try black beans or pinto beans.
- Beef Broth: Substitute with vegetable broth.
- Spices: Add chipotle or cayenne for more heat.
Creative Ways to Serve Pioneer Woman Chili With Chuck Roast
- Over steamed rice
- Paired with warm cornbread
- As a filling for tacos
- Stuffed into baked potatoes
- Spoon over nachos with melted cheese
Top Tips for Perfect Chili
- Brown the Meat Properly: It adds unmatched depth.
- Use Fresh Spices: Old spices lose flavor.
- Low & Slow: Essential for tender beef.
- Add Beans at the End: Keeps them from getting mushy.
- Balance Acidity: A tiny pinch of sugar or splash of vinegar can help.
- Rest Before Serving: Let it sit for 10 minutes to deepen flavor.
Fun Twists on the Classic Chili
- Add a small piece of dark chocolate for richness.
- Replace broth with beer for a deeper flavor.
- Add sweet potatoes for a hearty sweet contrast.
- Use white beans for a creamier version.
- Add chipotle peppers for smoky heat.
How to Store This Chili
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Freeze in bags for up to 3 months.
- Always Label: Add date for freshness.
How to Reheat
- Stovetop: Heat gently on low, stirring often.
- Microwave: Heat in intervals, stirring between.
- From Frozen: Add a splash of broth and warm slowly.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
