Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Warm, hearty, and loaded with bold flavors, this Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings. Its smoky and savory profile makes it a satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours of cooking. With just one pot and simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a delicious bowl of comfort that your family will request time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This chili comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize the heat level by adjusting spices or adding toppings to suit your taste.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with beans and vegetables, it’s a wholesome option everyone will enjoy.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or freeze for later use.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Ensure you have everything ready before starting to cook your chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for all ingredients to cook evenly without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pots; helps prevent sticking.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili, gather the following 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 Flavoring

• 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: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
* Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until it becomes soft.
* Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the pot.
* Cook while breaking it up with a spoon for about 5–7 minutes until browned.
* Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Spices

Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
* Cook for 1 minute to allow spices to bloom.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Elements

Mix in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
* Add diced tomatoes along with beef broth; stir well to combine.

Step 5: Add Beans and Simmer

Add both types of beans to the mixture.
* Let it simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your chili and adjust seasoning as needed.
* Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Serving your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili can be as creative as you like. This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with various toppings and sides that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the heat.
• Shredded Cheese – Sprinkle cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for a melty finish.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions add a crunchy texture and bright flavor.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado complements the spices in the chili beautifully.
• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brings a refreshing herbal note, perfect for garnishing.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Sweet and crumbly cornbread is ideal for soaking up the chili.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips can be served on the side or crumbled on top for added texture.
• Rice – Serve over cooked rice to make a heartier meal that stretches the chili further.

How to Perfect Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your stovetop chili, consider these helpful tips that will take your dish to the next level.

• Use fresh spices – Fresh spices can greatly enhance flavor. Check your spice cabinet for freshness before use.
• Brown the beef well – Ensuring the beef is well-browned adds depth and richness to your chili’s flavor profile.
• Simmer longer for more flavor – Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning gradually – Taste as you go and adjust seasonings gradually to avoid overpowering flavors.
• Incorporate variety in beans – Using different types of beans not only adds texture but also enhances nutritional value.
• Serve with storage in mind – If you’re planning leftovers, store toppings separately to keep them fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Pairing your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread – A sweet, fluffy bread that pairs perfectly with hearty chili, ideal for soaking up every drop.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chili flavors.
3. Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread is great for dipping into your chili, adding extra flavor to each bite.
4. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf serves as a neutral base that soaks up the delicious sauce from the chili.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Roasted stuffed peppers filled with grains or vegetables make a colorful side that complements chili’s warmth.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Smoky grilled veggies offer a healthy side option that balances out your meal’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Not cooking the onion and garlic first can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always sauté them until soft for a robust base.
• Using low-quality beef: Selecting fatty ground beef may lead to a greasy chili. Opt for leaner cuts for a healthier dish that still delivers rich flavor.
• Ignoring spice blooming: Failing to bloom your spices by cooking them briefly can dull their flavors. Make sure to cook them with the meat for at least a minute.
• Adding beans too early: If you add beans too soon, they may become mushy. Stir them in towards the end of cooking for a better texture.
• Not adjusting seasoning: It’s tempting to follow the recipe blindly, but tasting and adjusting seasoning is crucial. Always taste before serving and tweak as needed.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

• Allow the chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 10-15 minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili.

Can I customize my Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and flavor.

What can I serve with Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

This chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also top it with cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

How do I make my Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili spicier?

To increase spiciness, add more cayenne pepper or include chopped jalapeños during cooking.

Can I use different meats in this chili recipe?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or even lamb if you prefer a different flavor profile while keeping it delicious.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is not only warm and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give this easy recipe a try; it might just become your go-to comfort food!