why make this recipe
Ground beef stovetop chili is a fantastic dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a family meal, or just looking for something hearty and satisfying, this chili delivers. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation!
how to make Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef: Ground beef is the star of this recipe. It gives the chili that rich, meaty texture and flavor. You can use lean ground beef if you prefer less fat.
- 1 large onion, diced: Onions add a nice sweetness and depth to the chili.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must in any chili recipe—its savory flavor is key.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds body and a tangy flavor to the chili.
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Kidney beans provide a creamy texture and are a great source of protein.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Black beans give the chili a slight earthy flavor and are a great addition to the mix.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Tomato paste thickens the chili and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The heart of the chili’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds a smoky, earthy undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a touch of smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Optional, for a spicy kick!
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- 2 cups beef broth: This helps create a rich, flavorful base for the chili.
- Olive oil: For sautéing.
Directions
- Start by heating up the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion. Cook it for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step builds a solid flavor base for the chili.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic can turn bitter if overcooked.
- Next, add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat if needed. At this point, your kitchen will start to smell absolutely amazing!
- Now, it’s time to add the spices. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir everything well so the beef and onions are coated with the spices. Let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes to bloom their flavors.
- Stir in the tomato paste, making sure to mix it well with the beef and spices. This will thicken the chili and deepen the tomato flavor. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook for 20-25 minutes. The flavors will meld together, and the chili will thicken as it simmers.
- After the chili has simmered and thickened, add the kidney beans and black beans to the pot. Stir to combine. Let the chili simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the beans to heat through and absorb the flavors.
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you like it spicier. If it’s too thick, add a little more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the chili is cooked and perfectly seasoned, it’s time to serve! Ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite chili toppings.
how to serve Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Serving stovetop chili is easy! Spoon the chili into bowls and add your preferred toppings. Common choices include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro. You can also serve it with crusty bread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
how to store Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
To store any leftover chili, let it cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chili in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
tips to make Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
- For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or corn.
- To cut down on prep time, you can use frozen chopped onions and garlic.
- If you love a bit more heat, add more cayenne or try including jalapeños.
variation
Feel free to customize this chili to your liking! You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat entirely and add more beans and vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
FAQs
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes! Making the chili a day or two in advance enhances its flavor. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of beans and lentils for a vegetarian option.
How spicy is this chili?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the chili powder for a milder chili.
Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef You can use lean ground beef if you prefer less fat.
- 1 large Onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth to the chili.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Essential for savory flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) Diced tomatoes Adds body and a tangy flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) Red kidney beans, drained and rinsed Provides a creamy texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) Black beans, drained and rinsed Adds earthy flavor.
- 1 can (6 oz) Tomato paste Thickens the chili and intensifies tomato flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Chili powder The heart of the chili’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Adds a smoky, earthy undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika For a touch of smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Optional, for a spicy kick.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 cups Beef broth Helps create a rich base for the chili.
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to bloom flavors.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Lower heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes, allowing the chili to thicken.
- Add kidney beans and black beans and simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve in bowls and top with your favorite toppings.