Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili with Beans Recipe

Looking for a cozy, satisfying chili that doesn’t weigh you down? Ina Garten’s Turkey Chili with Beans is a perfect balance of hearty and healthy. With lean ground turkey, protein-packed beans, bold spices, and a rich tomato base, this chili is perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or meal prep.

What Is Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili with Beans?

This recipe features lean ground turkey simmered with onions, garlic, bell peppers, beans, and tomatoes, all seasoned with warming spices like chili powder and cumin. Ina keeps it simple yet flavorful, offering a lighter alternative to traditional beef chili without sacrificing depth or comfort.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Turkey Burger
• Ina Garten Turkey Gravy
• Ina Garten Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
• Ina Garten’s Whole Perfect Roast Chicken
• Ina Garten Buffalo Chicken Wings

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Turkey Chili with Beans

• Lean and nutritious – Ground turkey and beans are high in protein
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly – Ideal for meal prep
• Bold flavor with everyday ingredients – Pantry-friendly recipe
• Customizable heat level – Adjust the spice to your preference
• Naturally gluten-free – Great for dietary needs
• Feeds a crowd – Perfect for family meals or gatherings
• Barefoot Contessa-approved – Balanced, elegant, and satisfying

Ingredients Needed to Make Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili with Beans

• 3 tablespoons good 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, for heat)
• 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

Instructions to Prepare Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili with Beans

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 8–10 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey

Add the ground turkey to the pot and cook, stirring often, for about 10 minutes until fully browned and crumbled.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne (if using). Mix well.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Simmer

Add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens slightly and flavors develop.

Step 5: Add the Beans

Stir in the kidney beans and black beans. Simmer for another 10–15 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like sour cream, cheese, avocado, or fresh herbs.

What to Serve With Turkey Chili

• Cornbread or corn muffins – Sweet and savory combo
• Tortilla chips or baked pita – Great for scooping
• Steamed rice or quinoa – Adds volume and texture
• Simple green salad – Fresh contrast
• Roasted sweet potatoes – Naturally sweet pairing
• Pickled jalapeños or hot sauce – To turn up the heat
• Sliced avocado or guacamole – Creamy topping

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Use dark meat turkey – For more flavor and moisture
• Simmer uncovered – Helps the chili thicken naturally
• Rinse canned beans – To remove excess sodium and starch
• Let it rest before serving – Flavors intensify as it sits
• Add broth if needed – To adjust thickness
• Customize the spice level – Add more chili powder or cayenne to taste
• Double the recipe – It freezes beautifully

Variations of the Recipe

• Use ground chicken or beef – If turkey isn’t available
• Swap in pinto or cannellini beans – For different textures
• Add corn kernels or zucchini – For extra veggies
• Stir in chopped spinach or kale – For a nutrition boost
• Use smoked paprika instead of cayenne – For a smoky flavor
• Top with crushed tortilla chips – For crunch
• Make it dairy-free – Skip the sour cream and cheese toppings

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate in airtight container – Keeps up to 4 days
• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months – Great for future meals
• Thaw overnight in the fridge – For even reheating
• Reheat gently on the stovetop – Add water or broth as needed
• Label and date containers – For freezer tracking
• Store toppings separately – To maintain freshness
• Don’t freeze with dairy toppings – Add fresh after reheating

How Do I Reuse Leftover Turkey Chili?

• Top baked potatoes or sweet potatoes – Easy and filling
• Use in burritos or tacos – For a second meal
• Make chili nachos – With cheese and jalapeños
• Serve over pasta or rice – Quick and hearty dinner
• Stuff into bell peppers and bake – For a new twist
• Add to scrambled eggs or frittatas – Spicy breakfast
• Create chili mac and cheese – Ultimate comfort food mash-up

Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 9g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 620mg

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s turkey chili ahead of time?

Yes, turkey chili is perfect for making ahead. The flavors deepen over time, and it can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.

What type of ground turkey works best for chili?

Use dark meat ground turkey for better flavor and moisture. Lean breast meat can be used, but may result in a drier texture.

Can I make this turkey chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, after sautéing the onions, garlic, and turkey, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Can I make this chili spicier?

Absolutely. Increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to reach your desired heat level.

Final Words

Barefoot Contessa’s Turkey Chili with Beans is a lighter, healthier version of a comfort food favorite—without sacrificing flavor. It’s a go-to recipe for cold nights, family dinners, or anytime you need a warm, satisfying bowl of chili. With bold spices, hearty beans, and Ina’s signature ease, this chili is both nourishing and delicious.

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