Easy Spicy Taco Chili Recipe: Your Ultimate Guide to a Flavorful, Versatile Meal
Craving tacos but want something warm and comforting? This is the ultimate, easy-to-make Spicy Taco Chili recipe, delivering all your favorite taco flavors in a satisfying bowl! Featuring familiar taco seasoning spices combined with lean ground beef and hearty beans, this chili is a simple yet incredibly delicious meal perfect for any season. Whether you prefer cooking in your slow cooker, Instant Pot, or on the stovetop, we’ve got you covered with adaptable instructions. Get ready to enjoy a chili that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to become a family favorite!
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About This Spicy Taco Chili: A Hearty & Flavorful Fusion
There’s nothing quite like the crisp, cool air of fall in Colorado to inspire a deep dive into the world of chili. As a self-proclaimed chili enthusiast, my love for hearty chili recipes runs deep, and I’m always looking for new ways to enjoy this comforting dish. This Spicy Taco Chili is a prime example of how you can take classic flavors and transform them into something truly special.
Imagine your favorite taco experience, but elevated into a warm, inviting bowl of chili. That’s precisely what this recipe delivers. It’s a harmonious blend of familiar taco seasoning notes with the robust richness of ground beef and a medley of beans. The result is a simple, straightforward meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it perfect for serving all season long, from autumn gatherings to cozy winter nights.
What makes this taco chili stand out? It’s the delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods. You get the savory, spiced meat that’s characteristic of a great taco, combined with the hearty, stew-like consistency of a classic chili. This dish is incredibly versatile, adaptable to different spice preferences, and perfect for loading up with an array of vibrant toppings. Think of it as your go-to solution for a satisfying dinner that feels both exciting and deeply comforting. Plus, it’s an excellent way to celebrate Taco Tuesday with a warm and fulfilling twist!
Can’t get enough of those vibrant taco flavors? Consider making an easy taco salad for a lighter lunch option during the week!
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Spicy Taco Chili
Crafting the perfect Spicy Taco Chili starts with a thoughtful selection of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to bring this incredible dish to life:
- Oil: We recommend a high-quality extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil. Both provide a neutral base that allows the other flavors to shine, while also being excellent for sautéing.
- Onion: A diced white or yellow onion forms the aromatic foundation of this chili. They caramelize beautifully, adding a subtle sweetness and depth.
- Beef: For a rich and satisfying chili, use lean ground beef, ideally an 80/20 ratio. This provides ample flavor without excessive grease, ensuring a hearty texture.
- Beans: A combination of hot chili beans and kidney beans gives this recipe its characteristic body and texture. It’s crucial not to drain the beans, as the flavorful liquid from the cans contributes significantly to the chili’s overall consistency and taste.
- Tomatoes: Fire-roasted diced tomatoes are highly recommended. Their smoky sweetness truly elevates the chili, offering a depth of flavor that regular diced tomatoes simply can’t match. However, standard diced tomatoes can be used in a pinch.
- Tomato Paste: A couple of tablespoons of your favorite tomato paste concentrate the tomato flavor, adding an intense umami boost and helping to thicken the chili.
- Spices: The magic of taco chili lies in its carefully balanced spice blend. You’ll need a combination of salt, pepper, ground cumin (for earthy warmth), chili powder (the backbone of any good chili), smoked paprika (for a deep, smoky aroma), garlic powder, cayenne pepper (for that signature spicy kick), onion powder, and dried oregano. This blend creates a complex flavor profile that screams “taco night!”
- Cocoa Powder: This might sound surprising, but a touch of Dutch-processed cocoa powder is a secret ingredient that adds incredible depth and richness to the chili mixture. It doesn’t make the chili taste like chocolate but enhances the savory notes and provides a more rounded flavor.
- Toppings: The toppings are where this chili truly transforms into a taco-inspired feast! We highly recommend a vibrant assortment including creamy sliced avocado, cool sour cream, generously shredded sharp cheddar cheese, fresh chopped cilantro, crunchy crushed tortilla chips, and zesty sliced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat and freshness.
Recommended Equipment for Chili Success
Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience, especially when preparing a flavorful dish like Spicy Taco Chili. Here are some essential pieces of equipment that will help you achieve perfect results:
- **Chef’s Knife:** A sharp and reliable chef’s knife is indispensable for preparing your ingredients efficiently. It makes quick work of dicing onions and chopping fresh cilantro, ensuring precise cuts every time.
- **Cast Iron Skillet:** For browning the ground beef and sautéing onions, a durable cast iron skillet is an excellent choice. Its ability to retain and distribute heat evenly ensures a beautiful sear, locking in flavor. The Lodge cast iron skillet is a fantastic, more inexpensive option that offers exceptional performance.
- **Instant Pot (e.g., Ultra 6 Qt or Max):** If you’re opting for the Instant Pot method, models like the Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt or Instant Pot Max are incredibly versatile. They function as more than just pressure cookers, making them ideal for sautéing and then slow cooking or pressure cooking your chili all in one pot.
- **Dutch Oven:** For those who prefer the traditional stovetop approach, a sturdy Dutch oven is perfect. Its heavy bottom and excellent heat retention ensure your chili simmers evenly and develops rich, deep flavors.
- **Cutting Board:** An organic bamboo cutting board offers a stable and hygienic surface for all your chopping needs.
Note: This recipe has been updated from its original version published on October 2, 2017, with enhanced instructions and additional tips for an even better chili experience.
Here’s How to Make Spicy Taco Chili: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Making this Spicy Taco Chili is wonderfully straightforward, regardless of your preferred cooking method. The core steps remain consistent, focusing on building deep flavors before allowing them to meld together. Below, you’ll find an overview of the process, with specific instructions tailored for the slow cooker, Instant Pot, and stovetop detailed in the comprehensive recipe card below.
1. Choose Your Ideal Cooking Method
One of the best features of this Spicy Taco Chili is its versatility. You can prepare it using a slow cooker (or crockpot), an Instant Pot, or a traditional Dutch oven on the stovetop. While the cooking times and some minor operational details will differ, the general sequence of steps—sautéing aromatics and meat, then combining ingredients to simmer—remains largely the same across all methods. Pick the method that best suits your schedule and kitchen setup!
2. Sauté the Meat and Onion for Flavor
Begin by heating a little olive oil in a large skillet or directly in your Instant Pot set to sauté mode. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens and becomes fragrant, typically for about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for building the foundational flavor of your chili. Next, add the lean ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook the beef until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. Browning the meat deeply adds a rich, savory depth that permeates the entire chili. If using a skillet, drain any excess fat before transferring to your chosen cooking vessel.
3. Combine and Simmer Your Delicious Chili
Once your meat and onion are cooked, combine them with all the remaining chili ingredients in your chosen cooking device – be it the slow cooker, Instant Pot, or Dutch oven. Give everything a good stir to ensure all the spices and ingredients are well distributed. Then, simply follow the specific cooking instructions provided in the recipe card below for your selected method. This simmering phase allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, complex, and incredibly satisfying Spicy Taco Chili. Serve it warm in bowls, piled high with your favorite toppings, and prepare to enjoy a truly memorable meal!
Looking for more delightful chili creations? Explore these delicious recipes: Smoky Chipotle Chili | Creamy Queso Chili | Hearty Turkey Pumpkin Chili | Instant Pot Carne Asada Chili
Can I Use Leftover Taco Meat in This Chili?
Absolutely, using leftover cooked taco meat is a fantastic shortcut for this recipe! If you have seasoned and cooked taco meat ready to go, you can significantly reduce your prep time. Simply skip the initial step of browning the ground beef and onion. Instead, add your pre-cooked taco meat directly to the slow cooker, Instant Pot, or Dutch oven along with all the other chili ingredients. This allows the taco meat to simmer and absorb the rich flavors of the chili, contributing its own delicious seasoning to the mix. It’s a brilliant way to repurpose leftovers and create a fresh, new meal!
Adjusting the Spice Level: Mild to Extra Hot
The beauty of homemade chili is that you can easily tailor the spice level to your personal preference. This recipe is designed to be spicy, but you have full control!
- For a milder chili: If you prefer a gentle warmth rather than a fiery kick, there are a couple of simple adjustments. First, swap the “hot chili beans” for regular, mild chili beans. This will immediately reduce the overall heat. Additionally, you can completely omit the cayenne pepper from the spice mix. This ensures a flavorful chili that everyone, including those with sensitive palates, can enjoy.
- For an even spicier chili: If you’re like us and love an extra burst of heat, it’s easy to dial up the spice! Simply add another 1/4 teaspoon (or even more, if you dare!) of cayenne pepper to the recipe. You can also incorporate an extra diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes during the simmering process for an added layer of piquant flavor. Don’t be shy if you really love the heat!
Using Store-Bought Taco Seasoning Instead of Homemade
Life gets busy, and sometimes convenience is key! If you find yourself with a packet of store-bought taco seasoning on hand and don’t have all the individual spices for our homemade blend, you can certainly use it as a substitute. To achieve a similar depth of flavor, we recommend using approximately 3 to 4 tablespoons of your preferred taco seasoning. This should replace the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper listed in our recipe. However, don’t forget to still include the cocoa powder! Even with a pre-made seasoning, that touch of cocoa powder will add an essential depth and richness that truly enhances the chili’s overall profile, making it taste more complex and robust.
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Yes, absolutely! While lean ground beef is a classic choice for chili and provides a rich flavor, this Spicy Taco Chili recipe is incredibly flexible when it comes to protein. You can easily substitute the ground beef with other types of ground meat to suit your dietary preferences or what you have available. Excellent alternatives include ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground lamb. Each option will impart a slightly different flavor profile to the chili, but all will work wonderfully to create a delicious and satisfying meal. When using leaner meats like ground turkey or chicken, you might want to add a tiny bit more oil during the initial sauté to prevent sticking and ensure a good browning. This flexibility makes the recipe a versatile addition to your meal rotation!
Freezing and Storing Your Taco Chili for Future Enjoyment
One of the many benefits of this Spicy Taco Chili recipe is how well it freezes, making it perfect for meal prep or saving leftovers for quick, convenient meals later on. Freezing chili allows you to enjoy its comforting flavors whenever a craving strikes, without the need for extensive cooking.
To freeze your chili effectively:
- Cool Completely: After cooking, allow the chili to cool down to room temperature before freezing. This prevents ice crystals from forming and maintains the chili’s texture and flavor.
- Portioning: Divide the chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. We highly recommend freezing in pre-portioned sizes (e.g., individual servings or family-sized portions) so you can thaw and reheat exactly what you need. When using freezer bags, lay them flat to freeze, which saves space.
- Labeling: Always label your containers or bags with the date of freezing.
- Freezing Time: Your taco chili can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 months. Beyond this, it will still be safe to eat, but the quality and flavor may start to diminish.
When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat using your preferred method (stovetop or microwave). It’s an incredibly convenient way to have a delicious, homemade meal ready in minutes!
Need more inspiration for dinner? Dive into my full collection of main dish recipes for endless culinary ideas!
The Best Toppings and Sides for Spicy Taco Chili
The beauty of this Spicy Taco Chili truly comes alive with a generous array of toppings! Think of your bowl of chili as a canvas for a vibrant and textural masterpiece. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add delightful contrasts in texture and temperature. Here are some of our absolute favorite toppings and a few extra ideas to inspire your chili night:
- Creamy & Cooling:
- Sliced Avocado: Adds a rich, buttery counterpoint to the spice.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Provides a cool, tangy creaminess that beautifully balances the heat.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the warm chili, adding a savory, gooey indulgence. Other great cheese options include Cotija cheese or Queso Fresco for an authentic touch.
- Fresh & Zesty:
- Chopped Cilantro: Offers a bright, herbaceous freshness that complements the taco flavors.
- Sliced Jalapeños: For those who crave extra heat and a fresh, zesty crunch. Pickled jalapeños also work well.
- Diced Red Onion: A pungent, crisp addition that provides a sharp contrast.
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa of diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Sliced Green Onions: A milder onion flavor with a pretty green garnish.
- Crunchy & Hearty:
- Crushed Tortilla Chips: Essential for that satisfying crunch and a nod to the taco experience.
- Fritos Corn Chips: Another excellent crunchy option that adds a salty, corn-chip flavor.
- Cornbread or Corn Muffins: Perfect for soaking up all the delicious chili juices.
- Warm Flour or Corn Tortillas: For scooping up the chili, or even making small chili tacos!
- Extra Kick:
- Your Favorite Hot Sauce: For an extra layer of heat and vinegary tang.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match your favorites! The more variety you offer, the more fun and delicious your taco chili experience will be. Lay out a topping bar and let everyone customize their own perfect bowl!
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Chili
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your Spicy Taco Chili for days to come. This recipe is fantastic for making ahead or enjoying as leftovers, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
- Storage in the Refrigerator: Once your chili has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh and delicious for up to 4 to 5 days. Ensure it’s sealed well to prevent any absorption of other refrigerator odors.
- Reheating a Large Batch: For reheating a significant amount of chili, the stovetop is your best bet. Place the chili in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing it to gently warm through until it reaches a simmering temperature. If the chili appears too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Reheating Individual Portions: For single servings, the microwave is a convenient option. Spoon your desired amount of chili into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it is thoroughly warmed through.
- Freezing for Long-Term Storage: This chili is an excellent candidate for freezing. Ensure it’s completely cooled to room temperature before transferring to freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 to 5 months, preserving its flavor and quality for future meals.
- Thawing Frozen Chili: To thaw, simply transfer the frozen chili from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight. Once thawed, reheat using the stovetop or microwave instructions mentioned above.
More Delicious and Comforting Soup Recipes to Warm Your Soul
If you’ve enjoyed this Spicy Taco Chili, you’ll be thrilled to discover more comforting and flavorful soup recipes that are perfect for any season. Each of these dishes brings its own unique blend of ingredients and culinary magic to your table, promising warmth and satisfaction:
- Creamy Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Soup is a velvety, comforting bowl that’s both sweet and savory. This versatile recipe offers three different cooking methods (slow cooker, Instant Pot, stovetop), making it incredibly convenient for any home cook. It’s a delightful blend of autumnal flavors that will leave you feeling nourished and cozy.
- Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup is a rustic and robust choice, brimming with tender white beans, a vibrant assortment of fresh vegetables, and nutrient-rich wilted greens. This soup is a testament to simple ingredients creating profound flavors, reminiscent of a hearty Italian countryside meal.
- Comforting Instant Pot Tortilla Soup brings together incredibly simple ingredients to create a warm, flavorful, and satisfying bowl of soup in a fraction of the time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a taste of Mexico with minimal effort.
Want a quick weeknight meal shortcut? Master this easy chili seasoning recipe! It’s ideal for nights when you’re short on time to whip up a simple chili or to perfectly season meats and veggies, adding a burst of flavor to any dish.
Finally, if you take the time to make this incredibly delicious spicy taco chili recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! Your feedback means the world to me. I genuinely love hearing about your experiences in the kitchen and make a point to respond to every single comment. Don’t hesitate to drop any questions you might have below as well!
Oh, and for an extra special touch, be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! It’s truly my favorite thing to see these recipes come to life in your homes – scrolling through your photos brings me so much joy. It really means the world to me to share these culinary adventures with you!
Want to stay updated on new recipes, kitchen tips, and the latest news from my kitchen? Don’t miss out – sign up for my newsletter today!
Spicy Taco Chili
10 minutes
4 hours
10 minutes
4 hours
20 minutes
8
prevent your screen from going dark
Equipment You’ll Need
-
Organic Bamboo Cutting Board
-
Wusthof Knife Set (or a good chef’s knife)
-
Instant Pot Ultra 6 Qt (for pressure cooking)
-
Instant Pot Max (another great Instant Pot option)
-
Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet, 9-Inch (or a sturdy cast iron skillet / Dutch oven for stovetop)
Ingredients for Spicy Taco Chili
- 1/2 tsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1/2 white onion diced
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
- 1 16 oz can hot chili beans (undrained)
- 1 16 oz can kidney beans (undrained)
- 1 16 oz can fire roasted tomatoes (undrained, for best flavor)
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp cocoa powder (Dutch processed, for depth of flavor)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper* (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños
Detailed Cooking Instructions
Slow Cooker Method
-
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and cook until it begins to soften and become translucent, which typically takes approximately 3 minutes.
-
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully browned and no pink remains, approximately 4-5 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
-
Remove the cooked meat and onion mixture from the heat and carefully transfer it into the bowl of your slow cooker.
-
Add all the remaining ingredients for the chili (beans with their liquid, fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and all spices) to the slow cooker. Stir everything thoroughly to combine well.
-
Cover the slow cooker and cook on High setting for 4 hours, or on Low for 6-8 hours, until the chili is rich, thick, and the flavors have fully melded.
Instant Pot Method
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Add olive oil to the Instant Pot insert and set the appliance to the Sauté setting (Normal). Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens, about 2 to 3 minutes.
-
Add the ground beef to the Instant Pot and cook, breaking it apart, until it is thoroughly browned, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Once browned, turn off the Instant Pot.
-
Add all remaining chili ingredients to the Instant Pot, stirring well to combine everything. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon or spatula to remove any browned bits. This is crucial to prevent the dreaded “burn notice” during pressure cooking. Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on High pressure for 15 minutes. Once cooking is complete, perform a manual (quick) release of the pressure.
Stovetop Method
-
Add olive oil to a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes fragrant, typically about 2 to 3 minutes.
-
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully browned and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
-
Stir in all the remaining ingredients (beans with liquid, fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices) into the Dutch oven with the meat and onion.
-
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows the flavors to deepen and the chili to thicken to a perfect consistency.
How to Serve Your Spicy Taco Chili
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Ladle the warm, flavorful chili into individual bowls. Garnish generously with your favorite toppings such as fresh sliced avocado, a dollop of cool sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, fresh chopped cilantro, crunchy crushed tortilla chips, and extra sliced jalapeños for an additional kick of heat! Enjoy immediately.
Recipe Video Tutorial
Important Notes & Tips
*For an even richer flavor, let the chili rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking before serving, allowing the flavors to deepen.
*This chili tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prepping!
Nutrition Information
Calories:
286
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
21
g
|
Protein:
17
g
|
Fat:
15
g
|
Saturated Fat:
6
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
7
g
|
Trans Fat:
1
g
|
Cholesterol:
50
mg
|
Sodium:
927
mg
|
Potassium:
600
mg
|
Fiber:
7
g
|
Sugar:
4
g
|
Vitamin A:
671
IU
|
Vitamin C:
4
mg
|
Calcium:
82
mg
|
Iron:
5
mg
286
kcal
Soup and Stews, Soup, Main Dish, Chili