The aroma of simmering chili drifts through the kitchen, a warm invitation to gather around the table and indulge. This Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili comes together in under an hour, providing a hearty and flavorful meal that delights the senses. Its combination of spices mingles beautifully with tender beef and beans, making it a comforting favorite.
Perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings, this chili is a crowd-pleaser. It can easily be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight, and stored for later enjoyment.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It features ground beef for a rich, meaty texture.
- The blend of spices creates a uniquely flavorful chili.
- It’s a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup time.
- The recipe is easily adjustable for spice levels to suit your taste.
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to create the perfect chili.
For the Chili Base
- 1 lb ground beef (use lean for less fat)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
For the Tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
For the Beans
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
For the Spices
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Use low-sodium beef broth for a healthier option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Canned tomatoes can be fresh or homemade.
- Black beans can be replaced with pinto beans.
- Chili powder can be adjusted for spiciness.
How to Make It
Start cooking your chili with these easy steps.
Heat the Oil
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil becomes shimmering, add the diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. This step builds a solid flavor base for the chili.
Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic can turn bitter if overcooked.
Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat if needed. At this point, your kitchen will start to smell absolutely amazing!
Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir everything well so the beef and onions are coated with the spices. Let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes to bloom their flavors.
Incorporate the Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste, mixing well with the beef and spices. This will thicken the chili and deepen the tomato flavor. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook for 20-25 minutes. The flavors will meld together, and the chili will thicken.
Add the Beans
After simmering, add the kidney beans and black beans to the pot. Stir to combine and let the chili simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the beans to heat through and absorb the flavors.
Taste and Adjust
Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder for more spice. If it’s too thick, add a little more beef broth for your desired consistency.
Serve
Once the chili is cooked and perfectly seasoned, it’s time to serve! Ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite chili toppings.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, chili freezes well for later meals.
Reheat: Microwave or simmer on the stovetop for 10-15 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh garlic for the strongest flavor.
- Customize spice levels to cater to your preference.
- Let the chili sit for a while for flavors to deepen.
- Serve with cornbread to balance the spice.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread for dipping.
- Top with sour cream and shredded cheese.
- Enjoy with a side of tortilla chips for crunch.
