The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Short Description

This homemade stovetop chili is rich, hearty, and packed with bold flavors. Made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, it’s the perfect comfort food for chilly nights, game days, or meal prep. Ready in under an hour, this one-pot chili is a go-to recipe for a satisfying and delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Meal: Easy cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot.
• Hearty & Flavorful: A perfect balance of savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels and toppings to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day and freezes well.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 45 minutes, but simmers longer for deeper flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Bell peppers, chopped
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Tomato paste
• Kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• Black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• Beef broth
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Oregano
• Salt & black pepper
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in bell peppers and cook for 2 more minutes.
5. Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance flavor.
6. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well.
7. Add beans and spices (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne).
8. Simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, let it cook longer.
9. Stir in Worcestershire sauce before serving.
10. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or more cayenne pepper.
• Chunky Chili: Use cubed chuck roast instead of ground beef.
• Bean-Free Option: Skip the beans for a Texas-style chili.
• Vegetarian Chili: Swap meat for lentils or extra beans.
• Thicker Chili: Simmer longer or mash some beans for a thicker texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What’s the best ground meat for chili?

Ground beef (80/20) is ideal, but you can use turkey, chicken, or even pork.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Use about 4 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes.

How do I make chili less spicy?

Reduce or skip the cayenne pepper and chili powder.

What are the best toppings for chili?

Shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, avocado, jalapeños, or tortilla chips.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Try corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra texture.

What’s the secret to rich, flavorful chili?

Let it simmer longer, use Worcestershire sauce, and add a touch of cocoa powder for depth.

Can I make this chili without beans?

Yes! Just increase the meat and vegetables to maintain a hearty texture.

What’s the best way to thicken chili?

Simmer longer, mash some beans, or add a little cornmeal.

Is chili better the next day?

Yes! The flavors deepen, making it even tastier the next day.

Conclusion

This homemade stovetop chili is a flavorful, hearty dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it with cornbread, over rice, or on its own, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this comforting classic with your favorite toppings!

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