The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve found it! The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience. This recipe has been passed down through my family, bringing us together on busy weeknights and during lively gatherings with friends. There’s something so comforting about a big pot of chili simmering away, filling the kitchen with its rich aroma.

Whether you’re hosting game night or just need a satisfying dinner after a long day, this chili is sure to please everyone at the table. So grab your favorite bowl, and let’s dive into this delicious journey of flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this chili ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a hearty bowl of chili! It’s perfect for both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Customizable toppings: Get creative with your favorite toppings like cheese and cilantro for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili:

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 love like sour cream, green onions, or cilantro)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for something leaner.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for an extra dose of nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add fresh jalapeños or cayenne pepper for some heat!
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.

How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Warm the Olive Oil

Start by warming the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. This step is crucial as it will help sauté our vegetables perfectly.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Add in the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it begins to soften. Sautéing brings out the sweetness of the onion and sets a delicious base for our chili.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Next, introduce the ground beef to the pot. Cook it while breaking it up until it’s browned—about 5 minutes should do. This step adds great flavor and texture to your chili.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Drain any excess fat from the pot. Then add minced garlic and stir for just 30 seconds. Garlic infuses our dish with robust flavor—don’t skip this part!

Step 5: Mix in Spices and Tomato Paste

Now it’s time to mix in that wonderful blend of spices! Add chili powder (if using), cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well so everything is combined beautifully.

Step 6: Pour in Broth

Pour in the beef broth next. Be sure to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot; those are packed with flavor!

Step 7: Add Tomatoes and Beans

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

Step 8: Simmer Away

Let your chili simmer for 1-2 hours while stirring occasionally. Keep it covered for most of this time but uncover during the last 30 minutes to thicken as needed.

Step 9: Serve Your Chili

Finally, serve your delicious homemade chili hot with all your favorite toppings ready to go! Enjoy every comforting bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Making chili is all about finding the right balance of flavors, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your stovetop chili is nothing short of amazing!

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate your dish. Opt for organic tomatoes and fresh spices to enhance the overall flavor of your chili.

• Don’t rush the simmering process: Allowing your chili to simmer for 1-2 hours helps develop deep flavors. The longer it simmers, the better it becomes as the ingredients meld together beautifully.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your chili as it cooks and adjust the seasonings gradually. This way, you can create a flavor profile that suits your preferences perfectly.

• Mix up the beans: While kidney and pinto beans are classic choices, feel free to experiment with black beans or chickpeas for added texture and flavor. Each variety brings its unique taste to the pot.

• Make it ahead of time: Chili often tastes even better the next day! If you have time, prepare it a day in advance and let it sit in the fridge overnight. This allows flavors to deepen and makes for an easy dinner option.

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving this delicious stovetop chili can be as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this hearty dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese adds creaminess and richness that complements the spicy notes of the chili.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the heat, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Chopped green onions: These add a refreshing crunch and a pop of color, brightening up both presentation and flavor!

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy cornbread is a classic pairing with chili. Its slight sweetness balances out the spiciness while providing a comforting texture.
• Tortilla chips: Crispy tortilla chips serve as an excellent crunchy side. You can even use them for dipping or topping your chili for an extra layer of texture.
• Rice: A simple bowl of steamed rice can help soak up all those delicious juices from the chili. It’s filling and adds a nice base for your meal.
• Garden salad: A fresh garden salad offers a crisp contrast to the warm chili. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to warm hearts and satisfy appetites. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy hearty, delicious meals throughout the week. Whether you want to save some for later or feed a crowd, these storage tips will keep your chili fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label your container with the date so you know when to use it.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down before portioning it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili that might help you along the way!

Can I use other types of beans in The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans. Black beans, cannellini beans, or even chickpeas can add a unique flavor and texture to your chili.

How spicy is The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. If you like a milder chili, reduce or omit the chili powder. For those who love heat, consider adding jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce!

Can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. You may also want to adjust the broth accordingly.

What toppings go well with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Some great toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, fresh cilantro, or avocado slices. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili becomes a cherished addition to your dinner rotation! It’s warm, comforting, and full of flavor—perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones; I can’t wait for you to try it! Happy cooking!