Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe Flavorful and Quick
Chili Recipe Stovetop Ground Beef is the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell like comfort. The first time I made this simple homemade chili, the onions sizzled in olive oil, garlic filled the air, and the beef browned beautifully. The mix of chili beans, tomatoes, and warm spices created a bowl of flavorful chili that felt like home. This classic beef chili recipe is a favorite for busy families who want something hearty without hours in the kitchen. If you are looking for chili ground beef recipes that are quick, easy, and delicious, this stovetop version is perfect.
Chili Recipe Stovetop Ground Beef
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in chopped onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
- Mix in crushed tomatoes, chili beans, diced tomatoes, broth, and spices.
- Bring everything to a simmer and then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and black pepper before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
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Why you will love chili with chili beans
Chili with chili beans gives you a creamy and hearty base that transforms into a satisfying meal. Here is why this dish stands out:
- It is a chili recipe quick and easy that takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish.
- The spices blend to make one of the most flavorful chili bowls you can serve.
- The recipe is versatile enough to become vegetarian by swapping the beef for lentils.
- It belongs on every list of easy delicious chili recipes for weeknights or game day.
- Leftovers taste even better, making it one of the most reliable chili ground beef recipes for meal prep.
Ingredients for simple homemade chili
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes and Substitutions |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Butter or avocado oil work too |
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Ground turkey or chicken can be used |
| Onion | 1 large, chopped | Yellow or white onion both work |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Garlic powder in place of fresh |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 oz can | Fire roasted adds more flavor |
| Chili beans | 15 oz can, drained | Black beans or kidney beans as substitutes |
| Diced tomatoes | 15 oz can, undrained | Fresh tomatoes chopped can be used |
| Beef broth | 1 cup | Chicken or vegetable broth works |
| Chili powder | 2 tbsp | Essential for bold taste |
| Ground cumin | 1 tbsp | Adds earthy balance |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp | Regular paprika if preferred |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 tsp | Optional for heat |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | Adjust before serving |
| Toppings | Cheese, sour cream, green onions | Optional garnish |
How to make chili recipe stovetop ground beef
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in chopped onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
- Mix in crushed tomatoes, chili beans, diced tomatoes, broth, and spices.
- Bring everything to a simmer and then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and black pepper before serving.
This method makes a classic beef chili recipe that feels like it cooked all day while staying simple and fast.
Serving ideas for flavorful chili
Chili Recipe Stovetop Ground Beef can be served in creative ways:
- Topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.
- Over steamed rice or baked potatoes for a budget friendly dinner.
- Paired with cornbread, biscuits, or garlic bread for dipping.
- Spread over tortilla chips with jalapeños for chili nachos.
- Seasonal versions like pumpkin puree in fall or fresh lime in summer.
Tips for the best simple homemade chili
- Toast chili powder and cumin for one minute before adding tomatoes and broth.
- Use fire roasted tomatoes to create smoky depth.
- Simmer uncovered if you want a thicker chili.
- Mash a few beans into the broth for natural thickness.
- Add a splash of coffee or a square of dark chocolate for a rich twist.
These tips guarantee a flavorful chili that rivals restaurant versions.
Common mistakes to avoid with chili ground beef recipes
- Do not rush the simmer because chili needs time to let flavors blend.
- Avoid adding too much cayenne early since you can always increase heat later.
- Remember to drain fat to prevent greasy chili.
- Do not add salt at the beginning since broth and canned tomatoes already contain some.
- Wait until serving to add toppings so dairy stays fresh and smooth.
Storage and reheating tips for chilli recipe stovetop
| Storage Method | How to Store | Shelf Life | Reheating |
| Refrigerator | Airtight container | 3 to 4 days | Microwave or stovetop |
| Freezer | Freeze in portions | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight and reheat gently |
Keep toppings stored separately so they taste fresh when serving reheated chili.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a chili recipe quick and easy enough for busy nights?
Yes, it takes about 30 minutes yet tastes slow cooked.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Replace beef with lentils or plant based crumbles.
How do I thicken chili?
Simmer uncovered or mash some beans into the broth.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it is one of the easiest chili ground beef recipes to scale.
Are chili beans required?
No, you can use kidney or pinto beans, but chili beans make it creamier.
Final thoughts
Chili Recipe Stovetop Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food. It is a classic beef chili recipe made simple with chili beans, rich tomatoes, and warming spices. It belongs in every collection of easy delicious chili recipes because it is filling, customizable, and perfect for leftovers. Pin this flavorful chili to your dinner ideas board and save it for those nights when only a big bowl of comfort will do.
