The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to game day gatherings. This hearty recipe combines savory ground beef, nutritious beans, and rich fire-roasted tomatoes, simmered with aromatic spices and a hint of brown sugar. It’s easy to make and will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
• Step 2: Sauté the Onion
• Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
• Step 4: Add Garlic
• Step 5: Mix in Spices
• Step 6: Pour In Beef Broth
• Step 7: Add Tomatoes and Beans
• Step 8: Simmer Gently
• How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Classic Toppings
• Accompanying Bread
• Beverage Pairings
• How to Perfect The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Reheating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What type of meat is best for stovetop chili?
• Can I make this chili vegetarian?
• How spicy is this chili recipe?
• What toppings go well with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This chili packs a punch with protein-rich ground beef and beans, making it a satisfying meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this chili in no time.
• Versatile: Customize your chili with different beans or toppings to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly night or a summer BBQ, this stovetop chili is always a hit.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, ensure you have the right tools on hand. The right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for even cooking and retaining heat while simmering the chili.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent flavor.
• Chopping knife and cutting board: Essential for preparing your onions and garlic with ease.

Ingredients

A hearty and flavorful chili made with ground beef, beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Simmered on the stovetop with aromatic spices and a touch of brown sugar, this is a meal that warms you from the inside out!

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 ¾ cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 28 oz can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
• 1 15 oz can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15 oz can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional, for spicier chili)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro

How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the pot.
Cook for about 2 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot.
Cook while breaking it up into smaller pieces until browned (about 5 minutes).
Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic.
Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Mix in Spices

Add chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste.
Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Pour In Beef Broth

Pour in the beef broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 7: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Stir in fire-roasted crushed tomatoes along with both types of beans.

Step 8: Simmer Gently

Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low.
Let it simmer gently for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Enjoy serving this delightful dish warm with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is all about enhancing the flavors and making it a delightful experience. Here are some great serving suggestions that will elevate your chili dish.

Classic Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar adds richness and creaminess.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the spicy chili.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a fresh, herby finish.

Accompanying Bread

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of chili.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is great for soaking up every last drop of chili.

Beverage Pairings

• Iced Tea: A cold glass of iced tea refreshes and balances the heat of the chili.
• Beer: A light lager or an amber ale complements the robust flavors nicely.

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How to Perfect The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

To truly master The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili, consider these helpful tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Spices: Use fresh spices for maximum flavor. Ground spices lose potency over time.
• Simmer Longer: Letting your chili simmer for longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Aim for at least 90 minutes.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings during cooking. This ensures your chili is perfectly seasoned.
• Add Variety in Beans: Mixing different beans adds texture and complexity. Try black beans or cannellini beans for variety.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Pairing sides with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, cornbread is a classic choice that complements chili nicely.
2. Rice: Serve with fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the rich sauce of the chili.
3. Tortilla Chips: Crispy chips are perfect for scooping up chili or enjoying with toppings.
4. Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
5. Baked Potatoes: Topped with butter and chives, baked potatoes are filling and pair well with chili.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal, balancing out the heaviness of chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chili can be fun, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure you create The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili.

• Using too many spices: Adding excessive spices can overpower the dish. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to taste.
• Not browning the meat properly: Failing to brown the beef can result in uneven flavor. Take your time to brown it well before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping the simmering stage: Rushing through cooking will lessen the flavors. Allow your chili to simmer for at least an hour for best results.
• Neglecting to taste as you go: Forgetting to taste can lead to an unbalanced chili. Regularly sample during cooking and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Using low-quality canned beans or tomatoes: Low-quality products can affect taste. Opt for high-quality brands for better flavor and texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili.

What type of meat is best for stovetop chili?

Ground beef is traditional, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How spicy is this chili recipe?

This recipe is moderately spicy due to optional chili powder. Adjust the spice level by omitting it or adding more according to your preference.

What toppings go well with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, and cilantro for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a versatile dish that you can customize easily. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust spices for a personal touch!