The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, warming up on a chilly evening, or simply craving a comforting meal, this chili delivers robust flavors and easy preparation. Packed with protein and fiber from beans and beef, it’s a nutritious choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this chili in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fire-roasted tomatoes creates a deep, rich flavor that warms the soul.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs for added flair.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week—this chili tastes even better the next day!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy its hearty texture and delicious taste, making it a favorite at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help you along the way. Having the right equipment ensures an easier cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: This tool is ideal for even heat distribution, allowing your chili to simmer perfectly without burning.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pots. It helps mix all ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance in your chili.

Ingredients

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

Spices & Seasoning

• 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

• Shredded cheddar cheese (sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or anything else you like!)

How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or any heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it begins to soften.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Introduce the ground beef into the pot. Cook while breaking it up until browned, which should take roughly 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat before moving on.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Add minced garlic to the pot and stir for about 30 seconds. Then mix in chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 4: Combine with Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the beef broth while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Next, add fire roasted crushed tomatoes along with both types of beans.

Step 5: Simmer Your Chili

Bring your mixture to a boil then reduce heat. Allow it to simmer gently for 1-2 hours while stirring occasionally. Cover during most of this time but uncover during the last 30 minutes so it can thicken as needed.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Once cooked to your liking, serve your chili hot with shredded cheddar cheese or any toppings you desire!

Enjoy The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili as a cozy dinner option that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili can elevate your dining experience. This hearty dish pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides, allowing you to customize each bowl according to your taste.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice that melts beautifully over hot chili.
• Sour Cream: Adds a creamy texture and balances the spice.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh bite and color.
• Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro enhances flavor with its aromatic herb notes.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings richness and smoothness to each serving.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Sweet, crumbly cornbread complements the chili’s heat perfectly.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are great for scooping up chili or enjoying on the side.
• Rice: Serve over a bed of rice for a filling and comforting meal.
• Salad: A light green salad can balance the richness of the chili.

How to Perfect The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Perfecting The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is all about enhancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to make your chili even better:

• Bold Spices: Adjust spices according to your preference. Adding extra chili powder or cumin can enhance the flavor profile.
• Quality Meat: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
• Longer Simmer Time: Allowing the chili to simmer longer develops deeper flavors. Aim for at least an hour for optimal results.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and tomatoes elevate the overall quality of your dish.
• Thickening Options: If you prefer a thicker chili, let it cook uncovered in the last 30 minutes or add a cornstarch slurry.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Pairing side dishes with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet and moist, cornbread is perfect for soaking up chili sauce.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, making it an excellent companion.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides freshness and contrasts with the warm chili.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for a hearty meal option.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies add color and complement the rich flavors of chili.
6. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas make for a fun, dippable side that pairs wonderfully with chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your chili turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Sautéing: Failing to sauté the onions and garlic can lead to a bland flavor. Always take time to soften them first for a richer taste.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Not adding enough spices will leave your chili flat. Taste as you go, and adjust seasoning levels according to your preference.
• Overcooking Beans: Adding beans too early can turn them mushy. Stir them in during the last part of cooking to maintain their texture.
• Too Much Liquid: Adding excess broth can dilute flavors. Start with less liquid and add more if necessary while simmering.
• Not Allowing Time to Simmer: Rushing the cooking process will prevent flavors from developing. Let your chili simmer for at least an hour for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chili in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 30 minutes).
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili.

What makes this chili recipe stand out?

This chili is packed with rich flavors from ground beef and spices, making it hearty and satisfying.

Can I customize The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

How spicy is this chili?

The recipe includes optional chili powder for heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.

How long does it take to make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

The total time is about 110 minutes, including preparation and cooking time for optimal flavor development.

Final Thoughts

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is not just about comfort food; it’s versatile and customizable! You can easily adjust ingredients based on personal preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Try different toppings or even mix in some vegetables for extra nutrition!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. This hearty dish features a savory blend of ground beef, fire-roasted tomatoes, and protein-rich beans, all simmered to perfection. It’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients and is sure to warm you up on chilly nights. Customize your chili with a variety of toppings, making it a versatile meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re enjoying it on game night or meal prepping for the week ahead, this chili is packed with flavor and nutrition.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• Shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for about 2 minutes until softened.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned (about 5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in minced garlic and spices (chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper) along with tomato paste; mix thoroughly.
4. Pour in beef broth and add fire-roasted crushed tomatoes along with both types of beans.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 1-2 hours uncovered for the last 30 minutes to thicken.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg