This stovetop chili is hearty and comforting, packed with beans, ground meat, and lots of spices. It’s perfect for a cozy meal at home!
Making chili on the stove is quick and easy. I love how the smell fills the kitchen, making my mouth water. Serve it with some bread, and you’re all set! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor. If you’d like to lighten it up, ground turkey is a great substitute. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option!
Beans: Kidney beans are traditional in chili, but black beans or pinto beans work well too. Feel free to mix different beans based on what you have available or your taste preferences.
Tomato Sauce: The tomato sauce gives the chili a nice base. If you’re out, crushed tomatoes or tomato paste thinned with a bit of water can work perfectly as a substitute.
Spices: Chili powder is key to the flavor. I like to use a bit more than the recipe calls for if I’m feeling bold. If you don’t have it, you can mix paprika, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne to mimic the flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chili?
The key to a flavorful chili is in the layering of the ingredients. Start with cooking the onions, bell pepper, and garlic until they are soft. This step creates a flavor base. Then, toast the spices with the meat for a minute to really bring out their aroma before adding the liquids.
- Cook the vegetables until soft and fragrant.
- After adding the meat, cook until browned. Don’t skip draining excess fat for a better texture.
- Allow the chili to simmer so the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remember, taste as you go! Adjust seasonings before serving to make it just right for your palate.
How to Make Stovetop Chili?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chili:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Serving:
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
- Sour cream, for garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stovetop chili will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 minutes to cook. So in just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a hearty and delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they are softened and the onion becomes translucent. It’s the perfect time to add flavor!
2. Add Garlic and Meat:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the pot. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it!
3. Spice It Up:
Now it’s time to add all those delicious spices! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, optional cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to toast and release their aroma.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Add in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir everything well until combined. This is where the magic starts to happen!
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the chili to thicken slightly.
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or chili powder according to your preference!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chili hot in bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro. It’s also great paired with tortilla chips or bread on the side. Dive in and enjoy your delicious stovetop chili!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Chili?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add extra vegetables like corn, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them finely and add them when you sauté the onions and peppers.
How Can I Make this Chili Spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add a chopped jalapeño when cooking the veggies. For additional spice, consider sprinkling in some red pepper flakes or using a spicy chili powder blend.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
