Easy Stovetop Chili Recipe

Few things say comfort like a big, hearty bowl of Easy Stovetop Chili. Packed with perfectly seasoned ground beef, two kinds of hearty beans, and a lively blend of spices, this one-pot wonder comes together in under an hour — perfect for hectic weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just want plenty of leftovers for the next day, this crowd-pleaser is rich, robust, and gloriously simple. Let’s dig into everything you need to make your next batch of Easy Stovetop Chili unforgettable!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making easy stovetop chili is all about great flavor from the simplest ingredients. Each component brings something special to the pot, creating those familiar, crave-worthy layers of richness, spice, and color that make chili so satisfying. Don’t skip any — even the smallest addition makes a difference!

• 1 pound ground beef: Gives the chili its meaty depth and heartiness; choose 80/20 for the best texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the beef brown beautifully and brings a subtle richness to the base.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely aromatic foundation.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For punchy, savory flavor in every bite.
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Bring a classic chili taste with creamy texture.
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Add extra heartiness and color contrast.
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice: Offer juicy chunks and the perfect touch of acidity.
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce: Makes the chili saucy and ties everything together.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons chili powder: The essential spice blend that brings that unmistakable chili warmth.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a hint of smokiness.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces subtle smokiness for a real depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon oregano: Lends a herby fragrance that balances the rich sauce.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors — don’t skip it!
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: For a whisper of bite at the end.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Only if you want that fiery kick — adjust to taste!
• ½ cup beef broth or water: Loosens the chili and melds the flavors.

How to Make Easy Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and let it sizzle, using a wooden spoon to break it into crumbles as it cooks. It takes about 5 to 7 minutes for the beef to brown nicely. Don’t rush this part — the caramelized bits on the bottom are flavor gold. If there’s a lot of excess fat, drain it off so your Easy Stovetop Chili isn’t greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for another 3 or 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing and the onions look soft and translucent. This step sweetens the flavor and preps your base for all the delicious spices to come.

Step 3: Toast the Spices

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a spicy kick. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to wake up the spices — you’ll see them get darker and more fragrant. This mini-toasting makes a world of difference in the finished chili.

Step 4: Combine the Rest

Add in the tomato paste and stir it until it’s blended into the beef. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes (juice and all), tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and finally the beef broth. Stir everything well, scraping up those tasty brown bits from the bottom. The pot will start looking — and smelling — like classic chili!

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Bring your Easy Stovetop Chili to a gentle boil, then turn the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once in a while so nothing sticks. This is where all the flavors marry and the sauce thickens. Taste it before serving and adjust the seasonings if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Stovetop Chili

Garnishes

A bowl of Easy Stovetop Chili is just the beginning — what you put on top takes it over the top! Classic choices are shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions. For extra pop, try chopped cilantro, diced red onion, or even a few jalapeño slices. Crushed tortilla chips or oyster crackers add great crunch.

Side Dishes

Chili and cornbread are a match made in comfort food heaven. Try a fluffy homemade cornbread or crispy breadsticks for serious dipping. Warm rice, baked potatoes, or a cool, tangy coleslaw also pair beautifully to help balance every spoonful of your chili.

Creative Ways to Present

Need to change things up? Serve your Easy Stovetop Chili ladled over oven-crisped tortilla chips for an epic chili nacho platter, or spoon it into bread bowls for a rustic, cozy feel. For game day, set up a chili bar with all your favorite toppings so everyone can build their dream bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Stovetop Chili is a true gift for your future self — the flavors actually improve as it sits! Store cooled chili in an airtight container in the fridge, where it’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days. Enjoy it straight from the pot or even cold as a scoopable snack.

Freezing

If you love having chili ready at a moment’s notice, freezing is your best friend. Let the chili cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (don’t forget to leave a little space for expansion). Label and date; it keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat Easy Stovetop Chili in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. For single servings, the microwave works fine — just cover loosely and heat in 30-second bursts until piping hot.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter but still hearty version of Easy Stovetop Chili. You might want to add a tiny bit more olive oil since turkey has less fat, but otherwise, make it just the same.

How can I make the chili spicier or milder?

To kick up the heat, add more cayenne pepper, throw in chopped jalapeños, or even a squirt of hot sauce at the end. For a milder chili, omit the cayenne and use mild chili powder. The recipe is super flexible!

Are there vegetarian options for this Easy Stovetop Chili?

Definitely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles, or add more beans and chopped bell peppers for extra body. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and you’ve got a fantastic vegetarian version.

How do I make my chili thicker?

Letting the chili simmer uncovered a little longer helps excess liquid evaporate, making the sauce thicker and more luscious. For a quick fix, you can mash some of the beans right in the pot or add a spoonful of cornmeal while simmering.

What’s the best way to serve chili for a crowd?

Set up a chili bar! Keep your Easy Stovetop Chili warm in a slow cooker, lay out bowls of toppings and sides, and let everyone build their own bowl. It’s fun, interactive, and totally stress-free for the host.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something irresistible about a bowl of Easy Stovetop Chili — it’s filling, flavorful, and so simple that anyone can master it. Whether it’s a family dinner, weeknight meal prep, or game-day gathering, this recipe is sure to become a quick favorite. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again and again!

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