Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Warm, hearty, and loaded with bold flavors, this Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is the perfect answer to weeknight dinners or game day cravings. It’s 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 and Easy: This chili comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy less cleanup with a recipe that only requires one pot for cooking.
• Customizable Flavors: Adjust the spices and toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s game night or a family dinner, this chili is sure to satisfy everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: A sturdy pot allows for even cooking and provides enough space to stir ingredients without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware, ensuring durability.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you prep time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

For the Chili Base

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne (optional)
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For Added Flavor

• 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.

Step 2: Sauté Onion

• Sauté the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.

Step 3: Add Garlic

• Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Brown the Beef

• Add ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks for 5–7 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 5: Bloom the Spices

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

Step 6: Mix in Tomato Paste

• Mix in tomato paste and cook for another minute before adding diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine.

Step 7: Add Beans

• Add rinsed kidney beans and black beans into the mixture. Simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

Step 8: Taste and Serve

• Taste your chili and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Serving your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. This dish is not only filling but also versatile, making it great for gatherings or family dinners.

Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Shredded Cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a rich flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado enhances the chili’s depth and adds healthy fats.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Serve warm cornbread on the side for a sweet contrast to the spicy chili.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up chili or as a side snack.
• Rice – A bed of fluffy rice can help soak up the chili and make it even heartier.
• Salad – A light green salad offers freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

To elevate your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili, consider these simple yet effective tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Spices – Fresh spices release more flavor than older, stale ones. Ensure your chili powder and cumin are fresh for maximum taste.
• Brown the Beef Well – Searing the beef until browned adds depth to the flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth it!
• Simmer Longer – Allowing the chili to simmer longer (even up to an hour) helps flavors meld beautifully. Just keep an eye on it!
• Adjust for Heat – Start with a small amount of cayenne. You can always add more if you prefer extra heat without overwhelming the dish initially.
• Flavor Boost with Broth – Use quality beef broth instead of water for richer flavor. Low-sodium options let you control seasoning better.
• Add Vegetables – Consider adding diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture without compromising flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Cornbread – Sweet, crumbly cornbread complements spicy chili perfectly and is easy to make from scratch or from a mix.
2. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole not only adds flavor but also provides a cooling effect against the heat of the chili.
3. Coleslaw – A crisp coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch, balancing out the richness of the chili.
4. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a hearty base that pairs well with chili, allowing you to load them up with toppings.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – The melty cheese and crispy bread create a comforting combo when dipped into warm chili.
6. Crispy Tortillas – Lightly fried or baked tortillas add crunch and are perfect for dipping into your bowl of chili.
7. Stuffed Peppers – These can be filled with rice, beans, or cheese as an additional hearty side that matches well with chili flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can seem straightforward, but some common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are key points to keep in mind.

• Bold seasoning: Not adding enough spices can result in bland chili. Always taste your chili while cooking and adjust the seasoning to ensure rich flavors.
• Ignoring browning: Skipping the browning step for the beef can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take time to brown the meat properly for a more robust taste.
• Overcooking beans: Adding canned beans too early can make them mushy. Stir them in towards the end of cooking to maintain their texture.
• Skipping simmering: Rushing through the simmering process can leave your chili watery. Allow it to simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes for a thicker consistency.
• Neglecting toppings: Not using toppings like cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs can make your dish less appealing. Elevate your chili with creative toppings for added flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in airtight containers.
• It will stay fresh for about 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

• Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1–2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 10–15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

This recipe balances spices and hearty ingredients perfectly, creating a full-bodied flavor without requiring all-day cooking.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey, chicken, or even lamb if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How spicy is this chili?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of cayenne pepper added or by substituting with milder spices.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What are good toppings for chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, and avocado slices.

Final Thoughts

This Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or tweak the spices to suit your palate. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Warm and hearty, this Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is a flavor-packed dish perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings. Made in just one pot, it combines tender ground beef with a medley of spices, beans, and tomatoes to create a satisfying meal everyone will love. With its smoky undertones and customizable toppings, this chili promises to be a crowd-pleaser that you can whip up in under an hour. Plus, it’s great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

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Ingredients

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• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 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, drained & rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Brown the ground beef in the pot for about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Mix in tomato paste and cook for another minute before adding diced tomatoes and beef broth.
6. Stir in rinsed kidney beans and black beans; simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes until thickened.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 80mg