The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your tummy, you’ve come to the right place! The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is a family favorite in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without too much fuss, or for those chilly evenings when all you need is a big bowl of comfort.

This chili is not only packed with flavor, but it also brings everyone together. Whether it’s a casual dinner with the family or a gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress. Trust me, once you make this chili, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chili! It’s great for picky eaters and can be customized for everyone’s taste.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this chili in advance and reheat it for quick dinners throughout the week.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and wholesome ingredients creates an unforgettable flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 ¾ cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 28 oz can fire roasted crushed tomatoes
• 15 oz can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 oz can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 medium yellow onion chopped
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional for a hotter chili)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Topping

• shredded cheddar cheese (or any other toppings you like such as sour cream, green onions, or cilantro)

Variations

One of the best parts about chili is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or extra beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Add veggies: Throw in some bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to boost the nutrition and add more flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.

How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Warm the Olive Oil

Start by warming olive oil in a large Dutch oven or any heavy pot over medium-high heat. This step helps create a nice base for sautéing the onion.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 2 minutes until it begins to soften. This brings out its natural sweetness and builds layers of flavor.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Introduce the ground beef into the pot. Cook it while breaking it up until it’s browned—this should take around 5 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat afterward for a cleaner taste.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Once you’ve browned the beef, add in minced garlic and give it a stir for about 30 seconds. This infuses your chili with that wonderful garlic aroma!

Step 5: Mix in Spices

Now it’s time to mix in your spices: chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir everything well so that each ingredient gets fully incorporated – this is where all that rich flavor comes from!

Step 6: Pour in Broth

Pour in your beef broth and give it another good stir. Be sure to scrape up any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot; they add extra depth to your chili’s flavor.

Step 7: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Incorporate those fire-roasted crushed tomatoes along with both types of beans into your mixture. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to let it simmer gently.

Step 8: Simmer Away!

Allow your chili to simmer gently for about 1-2 hours while stirring occasionally. Cover the pot initially but uncover it during the last 30 minutes so it can thicken nicely.

Step 9: Serve with Toppings

Finally, serve your delicious homemade chili warm with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese or fresh herbs. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

There’s nothing quite like a pot of homemade chili bubbling away on the stove, and a few simple tips can take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic will add a depth of flavor that dried or aged ingredients simply can’t match. Plus, they contribute to the aroma that fills your kitchen.

• Don’t skip the simmer: Allowing your chili to simmer for an hour or two helps all the flavors meld beautifully. It creates a rich, hearty taste that’s worth the wait.

• Taste as you go: Be sure to taste your chili while it’s cooking and adjust the spices accordingly. Everyone has their own preference for spice levels, so don’t hesitate to tweak it to your liking!

• Experiment with beans: While kidney and pinto beans are classic choices, feel free to mix in black beans or white beans for added texture and flavor. Each bean brings its unique characteristics to the dish.

• Store leftovers properly: Chili often tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently when you’re ready for another bowl!

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving your stovetop chili is just as fun as cooking it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a warm and inviting presentation that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheddar cheese: A classic topping that melts beautifully over hot chili, adding creaminess and richness.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream balances out the heat with its coolness, making each bite delightful.
• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and color contrast that brightens up the dish visually.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This sweet, fluffy bread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up all those delicious juices while adding a comforting texture.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a nice contrast to the softness of chili; they’re perfect for dipping or sprinkling on top.
• Roasted vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted veggies adds nutrition and brings vibrant colors to your plate.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette complements the hearty nature of chili without overpowering it.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving ideas, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy a cozy night in with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeks. You can easily whip up a batch and enjoy it throughout the week or even freeze portions for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the chili thoroughly after cooking.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What makes The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili different?

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili stands out due to its rich flavors, hearty beans, and savory spices. It’s designed for maximum flavor and comfort in every bite!

Can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh jalapeños or other hot peppers during cooking. Taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!

Can I use canned beans in The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Yes! Canned beans are convenient and work perfectly in this recipe. Just remember to rinse them well before adding them to your chili.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili! This hearty dish is not only satisfying but also brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or meal prepping for the week ahead, I’m sure you’ll love every spoonful. Enjoy trying this recipe, and feel free to share your own twists on it!