This stovetop chili is a warm, hearty dish filled with beans, ground meat, and spices that bring out a comforting flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or game day!
What I love most is how quick it is to whip up. Just toss everything in the pot, let it simmer, and enjoy! It’s a great excuse to have a cozy night in with some cornbread! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: While I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or plant-based meat crumbles to keep it hearty.
Beans: Kidney and black beans are classic, but feel free to use chickpeas or pinto beans instead. They all add protein and fiber, plus a different texture. Just make sure they’re drained and rinsed well!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are must-haves for flavor. If you don’t have chili powder, a mix of paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of oregano can work as a substitute. I like to adjust the spice levels to my taste, so don’t be shy about tweaking it!
Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are convenient, but if you have fresh tomatoes, chop them up and toss them in. You can also add some tomato paste for an extra kick of flavor. If you’re looking for less acidity, you might prefer crushed tomatoes.
How Can You Achieve the Best Flavor in Your Chili?
The key to delicious chili is layering flavors as you cook. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil; this is where you build a strong flavor base. Remember to let your spices cook for a minute after adding them to release their full aroma!
- Heat olive oil in the pot and add onions, cooking until they soften.
- Incorporate minced garlic, then add the browned meat, breaking it up.
- After toasting the spices, add your beans and tomatoes, stirring well for mix.
- Let it simmer uncovered; this helps to thicken the chili and blend the flavors.
Take your time adjusting seasoning before serving. A touch more chili powder or salt can make all the difference!
How to Make Stovetop Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
- Sour cream, for garnish
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stovetop chili recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30-40 minutes to cook. This means you can enjoy a delicious homemade chili in about an hour! It’s perfect for a hearty dinner and makes great leftovers.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until it’s fragrant. This step builds a great flavor base!
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, which takes about 6-8 minutes. If there’s extra fat, drain it before moving on to the next step.
3. Add the Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their wonderful aromas.
4. Combine with Beans and Tomatoes:
Now, it’s time to add the good stuff! Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, beef broth, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally and enjoy the delicious smells filling your kitchen. This step thickens the chili and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Final Touches:
Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder to your liking. Once everything is just right, it’s time to serve!
7. Serve Up and Enjoy:
Serve the chili hot in bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions. Have some crunchy tortilla chips on the side for dipping or as a crunchy topping. Enjoy your cozy meal!
All done! This stovetop chili is a surefire way to warm up any chilly evening. Enjoy every spoonful! 🌶️
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative to beef. For a plant-based option, you can substitute with lentils or veggie crumbles for a hearty texture.
What Can I Do if My Chili is Too Thick?
If your chili turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit more beef broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Adding it gradually will help you control the thickness!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure it’s fully cooled before placing it in freezer-safe containers!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You can always add more chili powder for flavor without increasing the heat, or serve with hot sauce on the side for those who want an extra kick!
