Warm, hearty, and loaded with bold flavors, the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings. This dish stands out because it is quick to prepare, requiring minimal cooking time while delivering maximum flavor. With just one pot and a few pantry staples, you can create a cozy meal that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This chili cooks in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with this simple stovetop recipe that requires only one pot.
Flavorful & Hearty: Packed with spices and ingredients, this chili delivers a bold taste that warms the soul.
Versatile Toppings: Customize your chili with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added richness.
Leftover Friendly: Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili, gather your tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring spoons
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for cooking the chili evenly and allows enough space for all ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious chili:

Fresh Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Meat and Spices

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

Canned Goods

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted if possible)
2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
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.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic 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 with a spatula for about 5–7 minutes until browned.
Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: 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 5: Combine Tomato Ingredients

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

Step 6: Add Beans and Simmer

Incorporate both red kidney beans and black beans into the mixture.
Simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

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

How to Serve Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Serving the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili can elevate your meal experience. This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with various toppings and sides, allowing everyone to customize their bowl to their liking.

Classic Toppings

Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully on hot chili.
Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spice.
Chopped Green Onions: Freshness and crunch enhance the flavor profile.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a rich texture and taste.

Accompaniments

Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the chili’s spiciness.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are perfect for dipping into your chili.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve it over rice or quinoa for added substance.
Salad: A fresh green salad lightens up the meal.

How to Perfect Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

To make the best version of this chili, consider these tips that enhance its flavor and texture.

Use Quality Beef: Choosing lean ground beef helps maintain flavor without excess grease.
Don’t Rush the Browning: Browning the beef properly develops richer flavors in your chili.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized kick.
Add Vegetables: Incorporating bell peppers or carrots adds nutrition and depth to the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Pairing side dishes with your chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up every last bit of chili.
Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides a nice contrast to the warm, spicy chili.
Stuffed Peppers: These offer an extra serving of veggies alongside your main dish.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes can be topped with chili for a hearty twist.
Macaroni and Cheese: The creaminess of mac adds comfort alongside spicy chili.
Fried Plantains: Sweet plantains balance out the heat of the chili perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the flavor and texture of your dish.

Overcooking the onions: Cooking onions for too long can make them bitter. Sauté until they are soft and translucent for the best flavor.
Skipping seasoning at different stages: Adding all spices at once can lead to uneven flavor. Season in layers throughout the cooking process for a well-rounded taste.
Using low-quality beef: Cheap ground beef can result in a greasy chili. Opt for quality meat (80/20 or leaner) for a better texture and flavor.
Neglecting to drain beans: Not rinsing canned beans can add extra sodium and unwanted flavors. Always drain and rinse beans before adding them to your chili.
Not adjusting liquid levels: Every ingredient varies in moisture content, which can make your chili too watery or thick. Adjust broth based on desired consistency during simmering.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili in an airtight container.
It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Let the chili cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it lasts up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make my chili thicker?

To thicken your chili, let it simmer uncovered longer to reduce liquid. You can also mash some beans against the side of the pot or add a cornstarch slurry.

Can I customize my Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or adjust spices according to your heat preference.

What toppings go well with this chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.

How spicy is this Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of cayenne pepper used. For milder chili, you can omit it entirely or use less.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or serving it at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients and toppings!

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Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is your go-to recipe for cozy family dinners or game day feasts. This one-pot wonder is quick to prepare, taking under an hour from start to finish while delivering a taste that warms the soul. With simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will rave about. Perfectly seasoned with chili powder and topped off with your favorite garnishes like cheese and sour cream, this chili is not just a dish but a delightful experience. Dive into comfort food at its finest and let this easy beef chili recipe become a staple in your home.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes until soft; add garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks for about 5–7 minutes until browned; drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
Mix in tomato paste, then add diced tomatoes and beef broth; stir to combine.
Incorporate both kidney beans and black beans; simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes until thickened.
Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot with desired toppings.

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