Hey y'all! If you're searching for the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili that’s easy, comforting, and loaded with robust flavor, you’ve landed in the right place. This classic chili is perfect for game days, busy weeknights, or anytime you crave a warm, satisfying meal. Packed with tender ground beef, hearty beans, and aromatic spices, it’s a one-pot wonder that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep time!
- One-Pot Magic: Everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup.
- Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and robust flavors that satisfy.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit everyone’s tastes.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day and freezes well!
Ingredients for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional garnishes: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños
How to Make the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Beef
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper; cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Build the Chili Base
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast spices.
- Add tomato paste and mix until combined.
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
- Bring chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chili thickens and flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Notes for the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
- For a deeper flavor, let the chili simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to thicken further.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option (learn more).
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra smokiness (read about fire-roasted tomatoes).
Variations for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
- Texas-Style Chili: Omit the beans and add an extra pound of beef for a meatier, bean-free version.
- Vegetarian Chili: Substitute the beef with extra beans, lentils, or meatless crumbles.
- Spicy Chili: Add a diced jalapeño or ½ teaspoon chipotle powder for extra heat.
Required Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Storage Instructions
Let chili cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
- Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread.
- Top with shredded cheddar, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
- Pair with a crisp, refreshing salad or tortilla chips.
Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
- Use freshly ground spices for maximum flavor (how to make your own chili powder).
- Let the chili rest for 10 minutes off the heat before serving—this helps the flavors meld.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for a hint of brightness.
Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili FAQ
- Can I make this chili ahead?
- Absolutely! Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop.
- Is this chili gluten-free?
- Yes, as long as your beef broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- How do I make this chili thicker?
- Simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes or mash some beans into the chili for natural thickening.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
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1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
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2Add minced garlic and ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
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3Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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4Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
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5Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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6Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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