There’s something magical about the smell of chili warming on the stove. Spices in the air. Bubbles popping. It’s the kind of cozy chaos that screams fall weekends and weeknight hunger alike. This BEST GROUND BEEF STOVETOP CHILI is popping up on Pinterest and TikTok like crazyand trust me, it’s worth the spoonful.
This hearty bowl mixes ground beef, tomatoes, and pantry spices into one pot of absolute comfort. It’s thick, rich, and deeply satisfyinglike your mom’s old-school chili, but quicker and made for messy Tuesday nights. Full details in the blog!
I first made this during a snowy week when the fridge was looking… sad. Ground beef, one lonely onion, and boommagic happened. It’s been a family go-to ever since. I tested it three different ways. You’ll love the secret!
This Easy Stovetop Chili is a quick ground beef chili that combines hearty beans and rich spices for a comforting family friendly meal. Enjoy this classic beef chili as a one pot chili perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb ground beef
1 large onion diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
1 can 15 oz red kidney beans drained and rinsed
1 can 15 oz black beans drained and rinsed
1 can 6 oz tomato paste
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups beef broth
Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and add the diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 20-25 minutes.
Add kidney beans and black beans, stir and simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
Adjust seasoning to taste and add more broth if needed.
Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cook Time:45 minutes
Method:Stovetop
Nutrition
Serving Size:6
Calories:350
Fat:15g
Carbohydrates:30g
Protein:25g
Why This Stovetop Chili Will Become Your Family’s Favorite
There’s a reason this hearty stovetop chili earns a spot on repeat in so many homesit’s the epitome of cozy comfort food! The one-pot setup means fewer dishes (a definite win!), and the steps are so straightforward even a novice cook can master it. But it’s not just about convenience; this chili packs a big flavor punch with its smoky spices, tender ground beef, and creamy beans. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with savory aromas and makes everyone ask, “Is it ready yet?”
This recipe also offers incredible flexibility. Hosting a family gathering? Easily double the batch. Have a spice-sensitive diner? Simply swap out cayenne for a milder chili powder. It’s a forgiving and adaptable recipe that consistently hits the spot.
Ingredients Breakdown for the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Let’s talk about what goes into this classic beef chilieach ingredient plays its part in building that rich, crave-worthy flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground beef: The hero of the dish! Ground beef forms the hearty base. For a leaner option or if preferred, ground turkey works well too, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Onions and garlic: These essential aromatics build deep flavor from the start. A brief sautéing transforms them and makes a huge difference to the chili’s base.
Beans: Both red kidney and black beans contribute a creamy texture and depth that beautifully balances the rich beef. Remember to rinse them thoroughly before adding!
Canned tomatoes and paste: Diced tomatoes add a touch of tang, while tomato paste intensely amps up that bold, concentrated tomato flavor.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika bring warmth, smokiness, and that familiar chili kick. Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice levels!
Beef broth: This key ingredient ensures the chili is the perfect consistencyrich, thick, and wonderfully savory.
Pro Tip: Keep these pantry-friendly staples stocked, and you’ll be ready to whip up this satisfying chili whenever the craving strikes.
Simple Steps to Make This Amazing Stovetop Chili
Here’s the fun, no-fuss partputting it all together! This easy stovetop chili recipe is so straightforward that you’ll likely have it memorized after one go. Just follow these steps:
Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook diced onions for 3–4 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This aromatic start lays a foundational layer of flavor.
Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until thoroughly browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat if needed to keep the chili rich but not greasy. Ensure the beef is cooked through for food safety.
Add spices and paste: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Let them toast for about a minute, stirring constantly, to bloom their flavors. Then, mix in the tomato paste, stirring until it’s well incorporated and slightly darkened.
Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let it bubble together for 20–25 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen and the chili to thicken.
Beans and final touches: Add the rinsed kidney and black beans, stirring everything together. Let the pot simmer for another 10 minutes to heat the beans through. Taste and adjust seasoning as neededa pinch more spice, salt, or even a splash of hot sauce can work wonders.
Step
Time Needed
Prep (chopping onions, garlic)
5 minutes
Sauté and brown meat
10–12 minutes
Simmer & flavor meld
25 minutes
Add beans & finish
10 minutes
Easy Customizations for Your Ground Beef Chili
The beauty of this one-pot chili? It’s endlessly adaptable. Here’s how you can tweak it to suit your taste or pantry:
Less spicy? Simply omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount of chili powder.
More spice? Increase the cayenne, add a finely chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper with the onions, or drizzle in hot sauce before serving.
Bean-free: If you’re not a fan of beans, swap them for extra diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn, added during the last 15 minutes of simmering.
Meat-free: For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground beef alternative. You might also consider adding mushrooms for extra umami.
Shortcut: Got leftover roasted vegetables or canned corn? Stir them into the pot toward the end for extra flavor, texture, and bulk.
How to Serve & Store This Hearty Chili
Serve this chili piping hot in bowls with all your favorite toppings. Popular picks include shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
Leftovers: This chili saves beautifully for up to 4 days in the fridgeperfect for meal prep! Just store it in an airtight container.
Storage Method
Reheating Instructions
Fridge (up to 4 days)
Microwave in intervals, stirring, or reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Freezer (up to 3 months)
Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Pro Tip: Double the batch for easy freezer meals! Portion the chili into serving-size containers for convenient grab-and-go dinners later in the week or month.
Expert Tip: Elevating Flavor in Your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
For truly exceptional ground beef stovetop chili, ensure you brown the meat thoroughlythis crucial step develops rich, complex flavors through the Maillard reaction. Layering your spices early and allowing the chili to simmer gently for the recommended time deepens the overall taste, creating a balanced and hearty dish that truly shines without requiring hours of cooking.
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Crafting the Perfect Stovetop Chili: A Personal Journey
This recipe for the best ground beef stovetop chili didn’t come together overnight. It took several attemptssome overly spicy, others lacking depthto find the right balance that my entire family adores. Each trial taught me the importance of quality ingredients and patient simmering, transforming this chili into a truly tried-and-true weeknight winner that I’m proud to share.
FAQs ( Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili )
How long does stovetop chili take to cook?
This recipe usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. Browning the ground beef and simmering the flavors together ensures a hearty stovetop chili without long wait times. For the best taste, let it simmer gently for at least 20 minutes so the spices meld well.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely, this dish tastes even better the next day when the flavors have blended fully. You can store it refrigerated for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly on the stovetop for best texture and flavor retention.
What are good side dishes for this chili?
Classic sides include cornbread, steamed rice, or tortilla chips to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad or sautéed vegetables complement this meal well, adding freshness and balance. Cheese and sour cream toppings also add creamy texture to each serving.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate diced jalapenos, cayenne pepper, or extra chili powder during cooking. Adjust spice levels gradually to suit your taste. Fresh hot peppers or a dash of hot sauce can also enhance the spicy notes without overpowering the dish.
Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can all work well in this meal. Keep in mind leaner meats cook faster and may need a touch of added fat. Adjust seasonings slightly to match the different flavor profiles for the best results in this easy stovetop chili.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Stovetop Chili
This **Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili** truly comes together in under an hour, filling your kitchen with that irresistible, smoky aroma you can’t help but love. The texture is perfectly thick and hearty, just like the comforting bowls I grew up ononly faster, easier, and perfectly suited for any weeknight. You’ll love how this chili delivers deep, cozy flavors in every single bite.
Don’t hesitate to jazz it up with a little extra cayenne if you’re feeling bold, or switch beans for roasted veggies if you’re short on time or ingredients. A clever trick I picked up: let chili rest off the heat for a few minutes before serving; it truly lets the flavors settle beautifully. Leftovers? They reheat like a dream, making this family-friendly chili a fantastic meal prep winner.
Have you tried this **easy stovetop chili** yet? Snap a photo or share your own twists in the comments belowI’m always eager to hear your chili stories! Whether it’s a chilly night or you have a hungry crew, keep this recipe close, save it for cozy dinners, and pass it along to anyone who needs a warm, fuss-free hug in a bowl.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
