Stovetop Chili Recipe with Ground Beef: Hearty, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
This Stovetop Chili Recipe with Ground Beef is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines seasoned beef, tender beans, and aromatic spices for a rich and satisfying dish. Perfectly balanced with a touch of heat, this chili is quick to prepare, highly customizable, and ideal for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings. Top it with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 15 ounces diced tomatoes
- 1 can 15 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese sour cream, chopped green onions
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Combine the Base: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth. Mix well to combine.
- Season to Perfection: Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
- Simmer for Flavor: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and Adjust: Give it a final taste test and tweak the seasoning if needed.
- Serve with Style: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
Notes
- This recipe is highly adaptable—adjust spice levels, swap ingredients, or make it vegetarian-friendly.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure all spices and broth are certified gluten-free.
- Leftovers freeze well, making it perfect for meal prep.