There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of homemade chili. This classic Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is rich, savory, and packed with flavor that tastes like it has been simmering for hours, yet it comes together easily in about an hour. It’s the perfect one-pot meal for a cozy weeknight dinner, a game day gathering, or a chilly evening.
This recipe is straightforward and reliable, delivering a perfectly spiced, hearty chili every time. It’s loaded with savory ground beef, tender beans, and a blend of classic spices in a rich tomato base. It’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot or Dutch oven, making cleanup incredibly simple.
- Rich & Flavorful: A perfect blend of spices creates a deep, savory flavor in a surprisingly short amount of time.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this chili is a truly satisfying meal.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors get even better the next day, making it an ideal dish for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef
- 1 large Yellow Onion, diced
- 1 Green Bell Pepper, diced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can Crushed Tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can Black Beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 2 tablespoons Chili Powder
- 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper, or more to taste
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned all over. Drain off any excess grease.
- Bloom the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for one minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This step deepens their flavor.
- Simmer the Chili: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and the drained kidney and black beans. Season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
- Cook: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. For a richer flavor, simmer for up to 1.5 hours.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Tips & Variations
- Pro Tip: Don’t rush the simmer. The longer the chili cooks, the more time the flavors have to meld together and develop.
- Change the Protein: You can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based crumble.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicier chili, add a diced jalapeño with the onion, or increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
- Secret Ingredient: A teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder or a splash of dark beer can add an incredible depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
- Absolutely. Follow steps 1-3 on the stovetop, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The chili will taste even better the next day!
- Can I freeze this chili?
- Yes, this chili freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Chili is all about the toppings! Serve it with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, sliced green onions, or some crunchy tortilla strips. It’s also delicious served alongside a slice of warm cornbread.
Hearty Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
This hearty ground beef chili is a mild and comforting recipe made on the stovetop with simple ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and spices. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or slow cooker-friendly meal!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook onions in olive oil until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain fat if needed.
- Stir in remaining ingredients. Heat until bubbling, then cover and simmer on low for 20–30 minutes or until ready to eat.
Notes
For extra flavor, use beef broth instead of water. To thicken, simmer uncovered until liquid reduces. Can also be transferred to a slow cooker and kept on low until ready to serve.
