Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Warm, hearty, and loaded with bold flavors, the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is the perfect answer to weeknight dinners or game day cravings. This dish is smoky, savory, and satisfying without requiring 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 to Prepare: This chili comes together in just about an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying this delicious meal with family and friends.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spice levels or add more ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store it for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a game day feast, this chili fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and allows enough space to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps break up the ground beef easily.

Ingredients

Warm, hearty, and loaded with bold flavors, this 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.

For the Base

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)

For Spices

• 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 Beans

• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained & rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pot. Cook while breaking it up into smaller pieces. This should take about 5–7 minutes. If there’s excess fat after browning, drain it off.

Step 4: Bloom Spices

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

Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Mix in tomato paste and cook for another minute. Then add diced tomatoes along with beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Add Beans

Add both red kidney beans and black beans to the mixture. Allow it to simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes while stirring occasionally until thickened.

Step 7: 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 elevate the dining experience. This dish is versatile and can be complemented with various toppings and sides to suit every palate.

Toppings for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a melty finish.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a crunchy texture and a pop of color.
• Fresh Cilantro: Add chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness that enhances flavor.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the heat and adds richness.

Serving Suggestions for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

• With Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a sweet contrast to the chili’s heat.
• Over Rice: Spoon chili over rice for a hearty meal that fills you up.
• In Tortillas: Use tortillas to create chili burritos or tacos, perfect for hand-held enjoyment.
• With Crackers: Offer buttery crackers as a crunchy side option for dipping.

How to Perfect Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Perfecting your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to enhance your chili-making skills.

• Use Quality Meat: Start with fresh, high-quality ground beef for better flavor and texture.
• Brown the Meat Properly: Ensure the beef is browned well to enhance its rich flavor before adding other ingredients.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference; start with less if unsure.
• Let it Simmer: Allow your chili to simmer uncovered to thicken; this improves both taste and texture.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking for balanced flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Pairing your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili with complementary side dishes can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: A classic pairing, cornbread’s sweetness balances the spicy flavors of chili.
2. Rice: White or brown rice serves as an excellent base that soaks up the chili’s sauce.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a refreshing contrast, enhancing every bite.
4. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a crisp texture that complements the warmth of chili.
5. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are perfect for dipping into the chili or enjoying on their own.
6. Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with chili for a filling meal that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the Sautéing: Not sautéing the onions and garlic can lead to a bland flavor base. Always take the time to soften them first for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the Beef: Cooking ground beef too long can dry it out. Aim for just enough time to brown it while keeping it juicy.
• Ignoring Spice Blooming: Adding spices without blooming can mute their flavors. Always cook spices briefly in the fat before adding liquids.
• Using High-Sodium Ingredients: Choosing regular broth or canned tomatoes may result in an overly salty chili. Opt for low-sodium options for better control over seasoning.
• Not Letting It Simmer: Skipping the simmering step can leave you with a watery chili. Allow it to simmer uncovered until thickened for optimal consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for freshness.

Freezing Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months without losing quality.

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 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

This chili is packed with bold flavors and made in one pot, making it both delicious and easy to prepare. The combination of spices and quality ingredients creates a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

Absolutely! You can add different beans, vegetables, or even switch up the meat. Feel free to adjust spice levels or add toppings like cheese or sour cream.

How do I store leftovers of Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Is this chili suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is perfect for meal prep. It reheats well and tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is not only comforting but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes. Its simplicity allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients while keeping preparation quick and easy. Try this recipe today and discover why it’s destined to become a favorite in your household!

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Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Warm and inviting, the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is a comforting dish that brings bold flavors to your table in just under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings, this one-pot wonder combines savory ground beef with a medley of spices, beans, and tomatoes. The result is a hearty chili that’s rich in flavor yet simple to prepare. With plenty of opportunities for customization, you can adjust the spice levels or mix in your favorite ingredients to create a dish that everyone will adore. Whether served alone or with tasty toppings, this chili is sure to become a staple in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cans (15 oz each) beans (red kidney and black), drained and 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 until fragrant.
3. Incorporate ground beef, breaking it into smaller pieces while cooking for about 5–7 minutes until browned.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Mix in tomato paste; then add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well.
6. Add drained beans and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes until thickened.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving hot with your favorite toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. For a spicier kick, increase cayenne pepper or add fresh jalapeños during cooking.