The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy meal to warm your heart and soul, then you’ve come to the right place! The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is one of those recipes that feels like a big hug in a bowl. It’s comforting, hearty, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether it’s a chilly evening or game day with friends, this chili is sure to please everyone at the table.

What makes this chili truly special is how easy it is to make. With simple ingredients that come together beautifully, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again. Trust me, once you whip up a pot of this deliciousness, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just about 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish simmering away on your stove.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chili! This recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it later in the week or freeze leftovers.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: With its rich blend of spices and wholesome ingredients, each bite offers a burst of flavor that warms you from the inside out.
• Customizable Toppings: Dress it up as you like! From shredded cheese to fresh cilantro, there are endless ways to enjoy your chili.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together for a delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili Base

• 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

For the Seasoning

• 1 ½ 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

• Shredded cheddar cheese (or sour cream, green onions, cilantro—whatever you love!)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner meat options.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
• Go vegan: Substitute the beef with lentils or beans and use vegetable broth instead.

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 initial step helps build flavor right from the start!

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté it for about 2 minutes until it begins to soften. Sautéing brings out the natural sweetness of onions which enhances the overall taste of your chili.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Introduce your ground beef next. Cook it while breaking it up until it’s browned—this should take around 5 minutes. Cooking until browned adds depth to your dish.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pot. Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds—it will fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma! Then mix in chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well; these spices are what give your chili its signature flavor.

Step 5: Pour in Broth

Now it’s time to pour in that delicious beef broth! Give everything a good stir while scraping up any bits stuck at the bottom of your pot—this adds even more flavor!

Step 6: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans

Add those fire-roasted crushed tomatoes along with the kidney beans and pinto beans. Bring everything to a gentle boil before lowering the heat so it can simmer away for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally—this is when magic happens!

Step 7: Cover Initially

Keep your pot covered for most of that cooking time. You’ll want it uncovered during the last 30 minutes so that it thickens up nicely.

Step 8: Serve Up Deliciousness

When it’s all done simmering, serve your chili hot with all those wonderful toppings ready for guests to customize their bowls!

Enjoy every warm bowlful of The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Making chili is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your chili. Opt for fresh garlic and onions instead of pre-packaged versions for a more vibrant taste.

• Adjust the spice levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely. Conversely, if you like it hot, add in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

• Let it simmer longer: While 1-2 hours is recommended, allowing your chili to simmer even longer can deepen its flavors. Just make sure to stir occasionally and check on it to prevent sticking.

• Experiment with beans: Don’t hesitate to mix different types of beans. Black beans, cannellini beans, or even chickpeas can add unique textures and flavors to your chili.

• Make it ahead of time: Chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Consider making a big batch in advance for easy meal prep throughout the week!

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving your homemade chili can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this hearty dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture that perfectly balances the spiciness of the chili.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream not only cools down the heat but also adds a rich creaminess that enhances each bite.
• Fresh herbs: Chopped cilantro or green onions can bring a refreshing burst of flavor and color that brightens up your bowl.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing offers a sweet contrast to spicy chili. Its fluffy texture makes it perfect for soaking up those flavorful juices.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch and are great for scooping up chili directly from the bowl.
• Rice: A side of fluffy rice makes for an excellent base under your chili, helping to soak up all those delicious flavors while adding extra heartiness.
• Salad: A fresh garden salad with crisp greens and light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chili beautifully, providing a refreshing balance.

Now you have everything you need to create, serve, and enjoy The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time without compromising on flavor! It stores well, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags (remember to leave some space for expansion).
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely and heating in intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

What makes The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili so special?

The combination of hearty ground beef, rich spices, and a variety of beans creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste!

Can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils or a meat substitute. Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth will keep it flavorful and satisfying.

How long does The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this chili can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for leftovers!

Can I add more vegetables to my chili?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them finely and sauté them with the onions at the start.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili as much as I do! It’s truly a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or add-ins; every bowl can be unique! Happy cooking!