Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Warm, hearty, and loaded with bold flavors, this chili is the perfect answer to weeknight dinners or game day cravings. The Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is smoky, savory, and satisfying—without needing all-day simmering. With just one pot and a handful of pantry staples, you’ll have a bowl of cozy comfort that everyone will ask for again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This chili comes together in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy nights.
- One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is a breeze.
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spices and toppings to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for leftovers or freeze portions for future meals.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone enjoys dinner.
Tools and Preparation
To create the best stovetop chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A good-sized pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills while stirring.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are gentle on your cookware and perfect for breaking up ground beef.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
For the Seasoning
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted if possible)
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
For the Beans
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
How to Make Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Add minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the pot. Break it up as it cooks for about 5–7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 4: Bloom the Spices
Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom spices.
Step 5: Add Tomato Paste
Mix in tomato paste. Cook for an additional minute before adding diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 6: Add Beans
Add both red kidney beans and black beans to the mixture. Simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste your chili and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
How to Serve Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Serving your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili can elevate the dining experience and bring out its rich flavors. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that can complement this hearty dish.
Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast to the spiciness.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully on top, enhancing the chili’s flavor.
- Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a nice crunch and mild onion flavor.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the heat.
Accompaniments
- Cornbread: This sweet bread is a classic pairing, perfect for soaking up chili.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are great for dipping into the chili, offering texture.
- Rice: Serving the chili over rice makes it heartier and adds a comforting base.
Garnishes
- Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh herbaceous note.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors with acidity.
How to Perfect Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
To achieve the best version of your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili, consider these helpful tips.
- Spices: Use fresh spices for a more vibrant flavor. Consider adjusting the amount based on your heat preference.
- Quality Meat: Choose good-quality ground beef (80/20) for a flavorful and juicy chili.
- Simmer Time: Allow the chili to simmer longer if you have time; this enhances the depth of flavors.
- Taste as You Go: Regularly taste and adjust seasoning to suit your palate. Don’t be afraid to add more salt or spices!
- Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: These add an extra layer of smokiness that elevates your chili’s taste.
- Add Veggies: For added nutrition and texture, consider adding bell peppers or corn during cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Pairing side dishes with your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Below are some fantastic options to consider.
- Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy, cornbread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of chili.
- Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice makes a great base for serving chili on top.
- Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping, these crunchy chips add fun to your serving experience.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and contrasts nicely with warm chili.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread provides a savory addition that complements the rich flavors of the chili.
- Baked Potatoes: Serve chili over baked potatoes for a hearty twist on traditional servings.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: This classic comfort food pairs perfectly with a bowl of warm chili.
- Salad: A light, refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the chili while adding color to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chili can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can alter the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid when crafting your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili.
- Overcooking the onions: Cooking onions too long can make them bitter. Sauté just until soft for a sweet base.
- Using lean ground beef: While lean meat is healthier, it can lack flavor. Aim for 80/20 ground beef for a richer taste.
- Skipping the seasoning bloom: Adding spices without blooming them first can dull their flavors. Always cook spices briefly to enhance their aroma.
- Not letting it simmer long enough: A rushed simmer can lead to watery chili. Allow it to simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes to thicken properly.
- Neglecting to taste and adjust: Not tasting before serving may leave your chili bland. Always sample and tweak seasoning at the end.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best used within 3-4 days for optimal flavor.
Freezing Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
- Allow chili to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers; can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in 1-minute increments until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili.
How do I make my chili spicier?
You can add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick.
Can I use other types of beans?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in pinto beans or chickpeas based on your preference.
What toppings go well with this chili?
Consider sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or avocado for delicious toppings that complement the chili.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes! The Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili stores well and tastes even better after a day or two in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
The Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different beans, spices, or toppings according to your taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home!
Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 portions 1x
Description
Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is your go-to dish for quick weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. This smoky and savory chili comes together in under an hour, requiring just one pot and a few pantry staples. It’s family-friendly and easily customizable to fit everyone’s taste. Whether you’re serving it on game day or enjoying a casual meal at home, this chili is sure to become a favorite. Top it off with cheese, sour cream, or avocado for that extra touch of comfort!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add minced garlic; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned; drain excess fat if necessary.
- Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in tomato paste, followed by diced tomatoes and beef broth; mix well.
- Add kidney and black beans; simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
