The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends and family. This hearty dish combines ground beef, beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes, simmered to perfection on the stovetop. With its blend of aromatic spices and a hint of brown sugar, this chili not only warms you from the inside out but also satisfies your cravings for bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a game day party or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe will surely impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can whip up this delicious chili in no time.
- Flavorful and Rich: The combination of spices and fire-roasted tomatoes creates a deep flavor that is hard to resist.
- Versatile Meal: Customize with your favorite toppings or serve it with cornbread for an extra treat.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this chili is sure to be a hit at any party or family gathering.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or heavy pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or heavy pot: Provides even heat distribution, ensuring your chili simmers perfectly without burning.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistently delicious results every time.
Ingredients
A hearty and flavorful chili made with ground beef, beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Simmered on the stovetop with aromatic spices and a touch of brown sugar, this is a meal that warms you from the inside out!
For the Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
For the Broth
- 1 ¾ cups beef broth
For the Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 28 oz can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 1 15 oz can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15 oz can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
For Flavoring
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional, for spicier chili)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings
- shredded cheddar cheese
- sour cream
- green onions
- cilantro
How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Sauté Onion
Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef. Cook while breaking it up as it browns for about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat afterward.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Spice It Up
Add chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients well.
Step 6: Pour in Broth
Pour in the beef broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance flavor.
Step 7: Add Tomatoes and Beans
Stir in fire-roasted crushed tomatoes along with both types of beans until well combined.
Step 8: Simmer Away
Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 1–2 hours while stirring occasionally to develop rich flavors.
How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
Serving The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making the meal enjoyable. Here are some delightful suggestions to complement your chili.
With Toppings
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice that melts perfectly on top, adding creaminess.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spiciness and adds a tangy twist.
- Chopped Green Onions: Freshness from green onions can brighten the dish and add crunch.
- Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro gives an aromatic finish, perfect for herb lovers.
With Accompaniments
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with chili, soaking up the flavors.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide a satisfying contrast and are great for scooping.
- Rice: Serve over a bed of rice for a filling meal that complements the chili’s texture.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Freezing Portions: Store leftovers in airtight containers for easy meals later in the week.
- Serving with Salad: Pairing chili with a fresh salad can add color and nutrients to your plate.
How to Perfect The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
To make sure you create the best version of this comforting dish, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference.
- Simmer Longer for Flavor: Allowing your chili to simmer longer can deepen its taste and tenderness.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during cooking to find the perfect balance for your palate.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
Pairing side dishes with your homemade chili can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious chili goodness.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and freshness that complements spicy chili.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes serve as a comforting base for serving chili on top.
- Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice adds texture and can help mellow out spiciness if desired.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Melty cheese between crispy bread makes for a satisfying pairing with warm chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chili can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some to watch out for:
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Many people skip sautéing the onions and garlic, which adds depth of flavor. Always take a few minutes to soften them first.
- Using Low-Quality Meat: Poor-quality ground beef can result in a greasy chili. Choose lean ground beef for better taste and texture.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Failing to adjust seasonings during cooking can lead to bland chili. Taste as you go and add more spices if needed.
- Rushing the Cooking Time: Chili needs time to develop its flavors. Don’t rush; let it simmer gently for at least an hour for the best results.
- Overloading on Beans: While beans are nutritious, too many can overwhelm the chili. Stick to recommended amounts for balance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
- Allow the chili to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
- Frozen chili can last up to 3 months.
Reheating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chili in an oven-safe dish and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer a portion of the chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Pour the chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili:
How do I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili vegetarian?
You can substitute ground beef with lentils or chopped mushrooms. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture.
Can I use canned beans in The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?
Yes! Canned beans are convenient and save time. Just make sure to rinse them before adding to remove excess sodium.
What toppings go well with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?
Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, and fresh cilantro. Customize based on your preferences!
How spicy is The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?
The spice level depends on how much chili powder you use. Start with a tablespoon and adjust according to your taste preference.
Final Thoughts
The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients to suit your taste!
The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili, a hearty and flavorful dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. This easy stovetop recipe features succulent ground beef, nutritious beans, and rich fire-roasted tomatoes, all simmered together with aromatic spices for an unforgettable taste. Perfect for cozy nights or lively gatherings, this chili is customizable with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Whether served with cornbread or tortilla chips, this chili is destined to impress and satisfy every palate.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 ¾ cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (28 oz) fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sauté chopped onion until softened.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned and drain excess fat.
- Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds.
- Add spices and tomato paste; mix thoroughly.
- Pour in beef broth while scraping up browned bits from the pot.
- Incorporate crushed tomatoes and both types of beans; stir well.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
