The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe. The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is not just any chili; it’s a comforting bowl of goodness that brings together rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy. Trust me, once you make this chili, it’ll become a staple in your home.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and robust flavor. You can whip it up with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a quiet night in, this chili is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
  • Family-Friendly: The delicious taste makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
  • Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, so you can easily prepare it ahead of time.
  • Flavorful and Filling: Packed with spices and beans, each bowl is hearty and satisfying.
The

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili. These are all easy to find at your local grocery store!

For the Chili

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 ¾ cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 28 oz can fire roasted crushed tomatoes
  • 15 oz can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 15 oz can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 1 medium yellow onion chopped
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional for a hotter chili)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Topping

Feel free to get creative with toppings! Here are some ideas:
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Sour cream
* Green onions
* Cilantro

Variations

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is super flexible, so you can customize it to your taste! Here are some fun variation ideas:

  • Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
  • Go vegetarian: Replace meat with extra beans or lentils for a delicious plant-based version.
  • Add more veggies: Throw in bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Spice it up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to kick things up a notch!

How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Warm the Olive Oil

Start by warming the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. This step is key because it creates the right environment for sautéing your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they start to soften. This process brings out their natural sweetness and lays down the flavor base for your chili.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Next, introduce the ground beef into the pot. Cook while breaking it apart until it’s nicely browned—this should take about 5 minutes. Browning adds depth to the flavor of your chili.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Drain any excess fat from the pot if needed, then add minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant; this will really enhance your chili’s aroma.

Step 5: Mix in Spices

Now it’s time to mix in those spices! Add chili powder (if using), cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine everything; this step builds layers of flavor that make every bite delicious.

Step 6: Pour in Broth

Pour in the beef broth next. Give everything a good stir while scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—those little bits are packed with flavor!

Step 7: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans

Now add the fire-roasted crushed tomatoes along with both types of beans. Bring this beautiful mixture to a boil before lowering the heat to let it simmer gently for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally as it cooks; this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 8: Cover Initially

Keep your chili covered during most of its cooking time; uncover it during the last 30 minutes so it thickens up nicely.

Step 9: Serve with Toppings

Finally, serve your chili hot with any toppings you love! Whether it’s shredded cheese or fresh herbs—it’s all about making this meal special for you and yours.

Enjoy every warm spoonful of The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili! It’s bound to become one of your favorite recipes too!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Making chili is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your stovetop chili to a whole new level!

  • Use fresh spices: Fresh spices enhance the flavor profile of your chili significantly. Ground spices can lose their potency over time, so using fresh and properly stored spices ensures a vibrant taste.

  • Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder chili, start with less chili powder and gradually increase it to find your perfect balance. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy the dish without overwhelming spice levels.

  • Let it simmer longer: The longer you let your chili simmer, the richer and deeper the flavors will become. Aim for at least an hour, but if you have time to spare, letting it go for two hours will yield even better results.

  • Don’t rush the browning: Take your time when browning the beef; this step adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor. A good sear creates those delicious caramelized bits that make every bite special.

  • Taste as you go: Always taste your chili during cooking! Adjusting seasoning as it simmers helps you create a dish tailored exactly to your preferences.

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving up your homemade chili is just as important as making it! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some fun ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Adding sharp cheddar on top brings a creamy, melty texture that complements the spiciness wonderfully.
  • Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and bright color that enhance both presentation and flavor.
  • Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds an herby freshness that rounds out the richness of the chili beautifully.

Side Dishes

  • Cornbread: This classic side is sweet and buttery, perfect for soaking up all that delicious chili goodness. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
  • Guacamole and tortilla chips: Creamy guacamole paired with crispy chips makes for an irresistible appetizer that balances out the heat of the chili.
  • Rice or quinoa: Serving your chili over rice or fluffy quinoa provides a hearty base that complements each spoonful perfectly.
  • Simple green salad: A refreshing side salad with mixed greens dressed in light vinaigrette gives a nice contrast to the richness of the chili while adding some crunch.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re set for an unforgettable meal featuring The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili — one that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies alike! Enjoy every comforting bite!

The

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious homemade chili throughout the week! You can store leftovers, freeze portions for later, and reheat with minimal fuss.

Storing Leftovers

  • Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

  • Divide the chili into serving-sized portions and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • Make sure to leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on a defrost setting.
  • To reheat on the stovetop, pour into a pot over medium heat and stir until heated through.
  • Add a splash of broth or water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come to mind while making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili!

Can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili spicy?

Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier kick, simply increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños during cooking.

What beans work best in The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Red kidney beans and pinto beans are classic choices, but you can also experiment with black beans or chickpeas based on your preferences!

How long can I store leftovers of The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and comfort to your table! The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is not just filling; it’s also packed with flavor and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy making this dish, whether it’s for a cozy dinner or meal prep throughout the week. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!

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The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

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Looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly? The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is your answer! This comforting dish combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Quick to prepare with minimal fuss, this chili will become a staple in your home. Each bowl is packed with spices, beans, and ground beef, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for both kids and adults. Whether you make it ahead of time or enjoy it on a quiet night in, this chili is sure to please.

  • Author: Eleanor
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 90 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: About 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 ¾ cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 28 oz can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
  • 15 oz can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 15 oz can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional for a hotter chili)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Sauté chopped onion for about 2 minutes until softened.
  3. Add ground beef; cook until browned (about 5 minutes) while breaking it apart.
  4. Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Mix in spices and tomato paste; combine well.
  6. Pour in beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot.
  7. Add crushed tomatoes and both types of beans; bring to a boil then reduce to simmer for 1-2 hours.
  8. Keep covered most of the time; uncover for the last 30 minutes to thicken.
  9. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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