The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is my go-to recipe when I want something hearty and satisfying. This chili is packed with flavor and sure to please everyone at the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish brings people together, making it a cherished favorite.

What makes it even better is how easy it is to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious pot of chili simmering on the stove in no time. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers, so you can enjoy the flavors even after the first serving!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chili comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for those hectic days.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, everyone—from kids to adults—will love digging into this bowl of chili.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily whip up a big batch and store it for later. It tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spices or add extras based on what you have on hand.
• Deliciously Satisfying: Each spoonful is packed with flavor from the spices and fresh ingredients, ensuring every bite is delightful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will set you up for success in making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili. They’re all easy to find and combine beautifully for a cozy meal.

For the Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 ¾ cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 28 oz can fire roasted crushed tomatoes

For the Beans

• 15 oz can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 oz can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)

For Flavor

• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 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

You can top your chili with whatever makes your heart sing!
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* (Optional: sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or anything else you like!)

Variations

One of the best parts about this chili recipe is its flexibility! You can easily modify it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
• Go vegetarian: Replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty plant-based option.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or diced green chilies if you like an extra kick!

How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it starts to soften. This step builds a flavorful base by bringing out the natural sweetness of the onions.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Introduce the ground beef into the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks. Let it brown for roughly 5 minutes. Browning adds depth and richness to our chili—don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Add Garlic

Once your beef is nicely browned, drain any excess fat from the pot. Now add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic brings an amazing aroma that elevates our dish.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Mix in chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir everything well to combine. These spices are what make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili so irresistible!

Step 5: Pour in Broth

Pour in the beef broth while scraping up any bits stuck at the bottom of your pot. These little bits carry tons of flavor that we don’t want to miss out on!

Step 6: Add Tomatoes & Beans

Incorporate both crushed tomatoes and drained beans into your pot. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer gently. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Simmer Away

Cover your pot during the first part of cooking but uncover during the last 30 minutes so it thickens just right. Stir occasionally; this helps prevent sticking while keeping all those delicious flavors circulating.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy

When it’s ready, serve hot with your favorite toppings! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese takes it over the top—enjoy every warm bite of The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Making chili can be a delightful experience, especially when you know a few tricks to elevate your dish!

• Choose Your Meat Wisely: While ground beef is classic, you can also experiment with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. This variation adds different flavors and can appeal to various dietary preferences.

• Layer Your Flavors: Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding other ingredients helps develop a rich base that enhances the overall taste of the chili. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for depth of flavor!

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re unsure about heat, start with less chili powder and add more as it cooks. You can always spice it up later, but it’s hard to cool it down once it’s hot!

• Use Quality Broth: A flavorful broth can make or break your chili. Opt for low-sodium beef broth or even homemade stock to control the saltiness and enhance the taste.

• Let It Simmer: Patience is key! Allowing your chili to simmer for at least an hour lets all the flavors meld beautifully. If time allows, letting it rest overnight in the fridge will deepen the flavors even further.

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving chili is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary items that make each bite memorable!

Garnishes

• Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of cheese adds creaminess and richness that balances the heat.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream brings coolness and tanginess that enhances the overall experience.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that brightens up every spoonful.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This sweet and moist bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious chili. Plus, its texture contrasts nicely with the hearty stew.
• Rice: Serving chili over a bed of fluffy rice transforms it into a filling meal while providing a mild flavor that complements the spices.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are fantastic for scooping up chili; they add crunch and are fun to eat!
• Green salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of your chili.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also stores well, making it an excellent option for busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down fully.
• Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili!

Can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili tastes fantastic when made ahead of time. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and can be stored in the fridge or frozen for later use.

What can I use as a substitute for ground beef in The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

You can try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Each will give a different flavor profile while still keeping your chili delicious!

How can I adjust the spice level in The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

To control the heat, simply reduce or omit the chili powder. Additionally, you can add fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to increase spiciness as desired.

What toppings go well with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

The options are endless! Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, and fresh cilantro are popular choices. Feel free to get creative with your favorite toppings!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili as much as I do! Its comforting flavors and hearty texture make it a standout dish that warms both heart and home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings or ingredients; this recipe is all about what makes you happy. Happy cooking!