Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

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

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Beef
• For the Veggies
• For Spicing
• For Texture
• How to Make Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
• Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 2: Add Garlic
• Step 3: Brown the Beef
• Step 4: Bloom the Spices
• Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes
• Step 6: Add Beans
• Step 7: Final Touches
• How to Serve Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
• Classic Toppings
• Crunchy Additions
• Fresh Elements
• Unique Flavors
• How to Perfect Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
• Best Side Dishes for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
• Reheating Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I customize my Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?
• Can I make this chili recipe ahead of time?
• What toppings pair well with this chili?
• Is this chili recipe gluten-free?
• What sides go well with Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chili cooks in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean means more time to enjoy your delicious meal.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences—add more cayenne for heat or skip it for a milder dish.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and beans, this dish will keep you satisfied for hours.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a festive game day gathering, this chili fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking the best ground beef stovetop chili, gather your tools. Having everything at hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for cooking the chili evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables without mess.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.

Ingredients

• 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
• 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

For the Beef

• Ground beef (80/20 or leaner): The star of the show that adds rich flavor.

For the Veggies

• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor profile.

For Spicing

• Chili powder: The key seasoning that gives chili its signature kick.
• Cumin: Offers a warm earthiness.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness.

For Texture

• Tomato paste: Thickens the chili while adding richness.
• Diced tomatoes: Provides juicy bites throughout.
• Beans: Contribute heartiness and fiber.

How to Make Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 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 into smaller pieces for about 5–7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 4: Bloom the Spices

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

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes

Mix in tomato paste and cook for an additional minute. Then add diced tomatoes along with beef broth; stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Add Beans

Finally, add both cans of beans into the mixture. Allow everything to simmer uncovered for about 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened to your preferred consistency.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your chili and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese or sour cream!

How to Serve Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Serving your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is an opportunity to get creative with toppings and sides that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that balances the chili’s heat.
• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack offers a melty, savory finish that complements the spices.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a crisp, vibrant touch and a pop of color.

Crunchy Additions

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch and to scoop up every last bit.
• Cornbread Muffins: These sweet, buttery muffins are perfect for dipping into the chili.

Fresh Elements

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices provide a fresh and healthy twist alongside the warm chili.
• Cilantro or Parsley: Chopped herbs bring brightness and freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Unique Flavors

• Hot Sauce: For those who love extra spice, a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the dish.
• Pickled Jalapeños: Add tangy heat with pickled jalapeños for an exciting flavor boost.

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How to Perfect Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

To make your chili even better, consider these helpful tips. Each suggestion can enhance texture and flavor.

• Spice Blooming: Always cook your spices for at least one minute before adding liquids. This helps release their full flavors.
• Use Quality Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture without becoming greasy.
• Mix Bean Varieties: Combining different types of beans adds texture and richness to your chili.
• Adjust Thickness Gradually: If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer longer without a lid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Pairing side dishes with your chili can elevate the meal experience. Here are some great options to complement your bowl of goodness.

1. Cornbread: This sweet bread is a classic companion that soaks up chili beautifully.
2. Rice: Serve over white or brown rice for a filling meal that balances the robust flavors.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the chili.
4. Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with chili for a comforting twist on traditional toppings.
5. Garlic Bread: Soft garlic bread serves as an excellent vehicle to enjoy every drop of your delicious chili.
6. Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds lightness and freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the onions and garlic properly can lead to a flat-tasting chili. Always take the time to soften them before adding other ingredients for enhanced flavor.

• Not Browning the Beef Thoroughly: If you don’t brown the ground beef well, your chili might lack depth. Make sure to break it up and cook until fully browned for richer taste.

• Ignoring Spice Measurements: Over or under-seasoning can ruin your chili. Follow the spice measurements closely, and adjust only after tasting once it’s cooked.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap canned tomatoes or broth can impact flavor significantly. Opt for high-quality brands, especially for fire-roasted tomatoes.

• Cooking on Too High Heat: Cooking at too high a temperature can cause uneven cooking and burning. Keep the heat at medium to allow flavors to meld beautifully without scorching.

• Not Simmering Long Enough: Rushing the simmering process may result in a watery chili. Allow it to simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes for a thicker consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best enjoyed within 3–4 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label with date for easy identification later.

Reheating Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Start with one minute, then stir and continue heating until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat 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 can I customize my Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

You can add different beans like pinto or chickpeas, or include veggies such as bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor.

Can I make this chili recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen when stored overnight. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

What toppings pair well with this chili?

Consider toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.

Is this chili recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure all canned ingredients are certified gluten-free, this chili is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

What sides go well with Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

Serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad to balance out the hearty flavors of the chili.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is not just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl. Its rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner. Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences!