Air Fryer Chili Con Carne with Tender Beef and Bell Peppers
This hearty chili transforms traditional slow-cooked comfort into a quick air fryer meal. Tender cubes of bottom round roast are seared to perfection, then combined with colorful bell peppers, kidney beans, and aromatic spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. The air fryer method cuts cooking time significantly while developing deep, rich flavors through high-heat circulation. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this protein-packed dish delivers satisfying warmth with customizable heat levels. The combination of tender beef and vibrant vegetables creates a well-balanced meal that pairs beautifully with classic toppings like cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bottom round roast, dicedground beef1:1none
Use 85/15 ground beef for easier preparation
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
- 14 ½ ounces tomato sauce
- 15 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoon chili powder, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Cut the round roast into small, bite-sized cubes
- 2
Preheat air fryer for 3-5 minutes
- 3
Place cubed round roast in air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until browned on all sides
- 4
Transfer cooked meat to air fryer safe dish and add diced onion and minced garlic
- 5
Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions are softened and fragrant
- 6
Mix in diced bell pepper, kidney beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper
- 7
Stir well to combine all ingredients
- 8
Cook in air fryer at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through
- 9
Ensure chili is hot and bubbly with well combined flavors
- 10
Cook for additional 5 minutes if needed
- 11
Spoon into bowls and add desired toppings
Tips
Work in batches when browning meat to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for better searing
Stir the chili halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning
Adjust chili powder quantity based on your heat preference before the final cooking stage
Good to Know
Refrigerate for up to 4 days in airtight container
Can be made 1 day ahead, flavors improve overnight
Hot with toppings like cheese, sour cream, cilantro, tortilla chips
Common Mistakes
Avoid overcrowding air fryer basket to prevent steaming instead of browning
Stir regularly to avoid burning bottom layer
Do not skip preheating for proper meat searing
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use ground beef instead of cubed roast?
Yes, substitute with 1 pound 85/15 ground beef. Brown for 8-10 minutes, breaking up meat, then proceed with recipe.
What if I don't have an air fryer safe dish?
Use a metal cake pan or oven-safe dish that fits your air fryer. Avoid plastic or non-heat resistant materials.
How long will this chili keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered for up to 4 days. Reheat in microwave or stovetop, adding liquid if needed to restore consistency.