Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili With Beans Recipe

This Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili with Beans Recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, which includes ground turkey and crushed tomatoes. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

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Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili With Beans Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups chopped yellow onions (about 2 large)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 1½ pounds ground turkey (preferably dark meat)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

Optional Toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheddar, avocado, scallions, cilantro

How To Make Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili With Beans

1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 8–10 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Brown the turkey: Add ground turkey and cook, stirring, until browned and crumbled, about 10 minutes.
3. Mix in tomatoes and spices: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne (if using). Mix well.
4. Add peppers and simmer: Add chopped red and yellow bell peppers. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the beans: Add the rinsed kidney and black beans. Simmer for another 10–15 minutes until fully heated through and flavors blend.
6. Serve and top: Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, cheese, avocado, or fresh herbs as desired.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use white meat turkey?
  Yes, but dark meat adds more flavor and keeps the chili moist.
• What’s the best way to make it spicier?
  Increase cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños for more heat.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day and reheats well.
• Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
  Absolutely! Let it cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• What can I substitute for kidney beans?
  Pinto or cannellini beans work well if you prefer a different texture.

What To Serve With Turkey Chili

This chili pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides. Try it with:

• Cornbread or tortilla chips
• White rice or brown rice
• Simple green salad
• Pickled jalapeños or onions
• Grated cheese and sour cream

How To Store Turkey Chili

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Rewarm on the stovetop or microwave until hot, adding a splash of water or broth if too thick.

Turkey Chili Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving)

• Calories: ~400
• Protein: ~35g
• Carbohydrates: ~28g
• Fat: ~18g
• Fiber: ~8g
• Sodium: ~700mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make this in the Crock Pot?
Yes. Brown the turkey and aromatics first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, all listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels to confirm.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to simmer longer and may need to add extra seasoning.

Can I skip the beans?
Yes, but the beans add fiber, texture, and protein. Consider adding extra vegetables instead.

How to thicken the chili?
Simmer uncovered longer or mash some beans into the mixture for a thicker texture.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Pizza Dough Recipe
• Ina Garten Prime Rib Roast Recipe
• Ina Garten Rangoon Dip Recipe