If you’re craving a comforting and hearty dish that hits all the right notes, you’ve got to try this Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe. Bursting with rich flavors, warm spices, and a medley of textures—from tender ground beef to creamy beans and vibrant vegetables—this chili is the kind of meal that feels like a big, warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something satisfying on a chilly evening, this recipe is easy to whip up but makes a big impact with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but come together to create a complex, mouthwatering chili. Each component adds its own special touch—whether that’s the depth from beef broth, the kick from chili powder, or the hearty texture from beans.
- Vegetable oil: Helps sauté the onions and garlic to build the flavor base.
- Large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and softness that balances the spices.
- Garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that enhances every bite.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein star delivering savory richness.
- Green bell pepper, chopped: Provides a subtle crunch and fresh color.
- Chili powder: The essential spice that brings warmth and complexity.
- Ground cumin: Adds an earthy, smoky undertone.
- Paprika: Enhances color and lends a mild sweetness.
- Dried oregano: Brings herbal depth to the mix.
- Cayenne pepper: A touch of heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): Give the chili juicy acidity and body.
- Kidney beans: Offer creamy texture and extra protein.
- Black beans: Contribute earthiness and another layer of heartiness.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor for a richer sauce.
- Beef broth: Creates a savory, flavorful liquid base.
- Salt and pepper: The final seasoning balance to elevate every flavor.
- Optional toppings (shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro): Add fresh, creamy, or zesty pops at serving.
How to Make Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, and let them cook until the onions turn translucent and fragrant—about five minutes. This step is key because it builds the flavorful foundation for your chili.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, letting it brown evenly until there’s no pink left. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat; this keeps your chili from getting greasy while still maintaining that juicy meatiness.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices
Next, stir in the chopped green bell pepper along with chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Give everything a good mix so the meat and veggies get coated with those amazing spices. This is where that signature chili flavor really starts to shine.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, kidney beans, black beans, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. This mix will create the rich and hearty sauce that defines your stovetop chili.
Step 5: Simmer Slowly
Bring your chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking is essential to allow all those flavors to meld together beautifully and develop that deep, comforting taste.
Step 6: Season to Taste
After simmering, season your chili with salt and pepper. Taste and tweak the seasoning as needed — add more cayenne for heat or an extra pinch of chili powder if you want a bolder flavor. This personal touch makes the recipe truly yours.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Dish out the chili hot and crown it with any of your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or cilantro. These garnishes add creaminess, freshness, and a burst of color that make every bowl even more inviting.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is where you get to have a little fun and add layers of flavor and texture. Shredded cheddar melts deliciously into the chili’s heat, sour cream adds a cool creaminess, and fresh green onions or cilantro bring a bright, herbal lift. Toppings like avocado slices or a squeeze of lime juice also complement the robust chili profile beautifully.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the sauce or add a contrasting crunch. Classic cornbread is a cozy match, while tortilla chips provide a satisfying crispy dipper. Rice, either white or brown, helps bulk up the meal, and a crisp green salad balances the hearty richness of the chili.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe in baked potatoes, letting guests load up the chili and toppings as they please. You can also use it as a filling for chili dogs or stuff it into warm pita bread for a handheld chili sandwich. No matter how you present it, this chili always impresses!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chili tastes even better the next day, making leftovers a real treat. Store your cooked chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it sealed well helps preserve the flavors and prevents it from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
To enjoy the Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe later, freeze it in portioned freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags for up to 3 months. Make sure the chili has cooled completely before freezing. Label and date your containers to keep track for an easy, go-to meal on busy days.
Reheating
Reheat chili gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first for even warming. You can also microwave single servings, just cover to prevent splatters and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted to lighten up the chili, though the flavor will be milder. You might want to add a bit more seasoning or some smoked paprika to replicate the richness of beef.
Is it okay to skip the beans in this chili?
Yes, you can omit beans if you prefer a more traditional Texan-style chili that’s just meat and spices. The chili will still be delicious, but beans add extra texture and bulk that many people love.
How spicy is this Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe?
The recipe has a moderate heat level thanks to the cayenne pepper, which you can adjust up or down to suit your taste. If you’re serving kids or prefer mild food, cut back on the cayenne or leave it out altogether.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Definitely! After browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method deepens the flavors even more, making your chili extra comforting.
What are some good toppings to add more texture?
Try crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions for crunch. Chopped jalapeños add heat and bite, while a dollop of guacamole brings creaminess. Pick your favorite combos to keep every spoonful exciting.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of chili that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and invites everyone to gather around the table. This Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe is easy enough for any weeknight but packed with so much soul and flavor you’ll want to make it again and again. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, this chili will become one of your favorite go-to meals that’s perfect for sharing, comforting, and celebrating simple, hearty food.
Print
Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 40m
- Total Time: 0h 55m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Ground Beef Stovetop Chili packed with spices, beans, and vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal. This chili is simmered to perfection on the stovetop, allowing the rich flavors to meld together for a satisfying dish that can be customized with a variety of delicious toppings.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Cilantro
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Add the chopped green bell pepper, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Add Liquids and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, kidney beans, black beans, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir all the ingredients together until fully combined.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and allow the chili to simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and boost flavors.
- Season and Adjust: Taste the chili and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust other seasonings for additional heat or depth of flavor if desired.
- Serve: Spoon the hot chili into bowls and garnish with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or cilantro for enhanced flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce liquid.
- Leftover chili tastes great the next day and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions for convenient meals later.
