This Pinto Bean Chili is a hearty, comforting dish that’s slow-simmered to perfection, delivering rich, bold flavors and creamy textures. Paired with cheesy quesadillas filled with tangy green chiles, it’s a match made in comfort food heaven. Perfect for chilly nights or game-day gatherings, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Prep Time
- 20 minutes
Cook Time
- 2 hours
Total Time
- 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings
- 6–8 servings
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 lb dried pinto beans
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups water (divided)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Quesadillas:
- 4 medium flour tortillas
- ½ cup green chiles (canned or roasted)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Tortilla chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
- Place the dried pinto beans in a Dutch oven or large soup kettle. Add enough water to cover the beans by 2 inches .
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Boil for 2 minutes , then remove from the heat.
- Cover the pot and let the beans stand for 1 hour . Drain and rinse the beans thoroughly, discarding the soaking liquid.
Step 2: Cook the Chili
- In the same Dutch oven, cook the ground beef, onion, and celery over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the flour until blended, then gradually stir in 6 cups of water to prevent lumps.
- Add the soaked beans, chili powder, cumin, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1½ hours , or until the beans are tender and the chili has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Heat through, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Make the Quesadillas
- Warm a skillet over medium heat.
- Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese on one half of the tortilla. Spread 1 tablespoon green chiles over the cheese. Fold the tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes per side , or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, cheese, and chiles.
- Cut each quesadilla into halves or wedges for serving.
Step 4: Serve
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or fresh cilantro.
- Serve the cheesy quesadilla wedges on the side or crumble them over the chili for added texture and flavor.
Pro Tips
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the chili.
- Make Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Quesadilla Variations: Add cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or black beans to the quesadillas for extra flavor and texture.
- Tortilla Chips: Use leftover tortillas to make crispy chips by baking them at 350°F (175°C) with a sprinkle of salt and chili powder for 8–10 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 6g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pinto Bean Chili is a labor of love that pays off in spades. The slow-simmered beans are creamy and flavorful, while the ground beef and spices create a rich, hearty base. Paired with cheesy, tangy quesadillas, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ready to dive into this comforting bowl of goodness? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a chili that’s bold, hearty, and packed with flavor—it’s comfort food at its finest!
