This stovetop chili is a warm and hearty dish, perfect for chilly days! With ground meat, beans, and a mix of spices, it delivers a punch of flavor in every bite.
Making this chili is super easy! Just brown the meat, add the veggies and spices, and let it simmer. I like to top it with cheese and sour cream for some extra yum! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the chili! You can also use ground turkey for a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian chili, swap meat for lentils or a mix of your favorite beans.
Chili Powder: This adds essential flavor. If you want to mix things up, try using taco seasoning or a blend of smoked paprika and cumin to taste.
Beans: Kidney beans are traditional, but feel free to use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas! Just make sure to drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium.
Broth: I recommend using beef broth for richness, but vegetable broth works great too! You can even use water in a pinch, just add more seasoning.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Chili?
The secret to great chili is layering the flavors carefully. Here are some tips:
- Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. This builds a solid base.
- Toast the spices! After adding them to the browned meat, cooking them for a minute enhances their flavors.
- Let it simmer gently. This is key—allow it to cook for 25-30 minutes so all the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Taste before serving! Adjust the spices as needed, adding more salt or chili powder to really make it your own.
How to Make Stovetop Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth (or water)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stovetop chili will take about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 40 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook until it is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s extra fat, drain it from the pot to keep your chili lean.
3. Add the Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to toast the spices and bring out their flavors.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the good stuff! Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir everything together to combine well.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Taste and Adjust:
After the chili has simmered, take a moment to taste it. You can adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed to suit your taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chili hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or cornbread on the side!
Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your homemade stovetop chili! It’s sure to be a family favorite.
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are classic, you can substitute with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Just remember to rinse and drain any canned beans before adding them to the chili.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
Definitely! To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while it simmers for extra kick.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Chili?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or corn make great additions. Just sauté them with the onions to ensure they cook evenly. This adds extra flavor and nutrition to your chili.
