The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for anyone craving comfort food. The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili combines seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes for a satisfying meal that warms you up from the inside out. It’s great for family dinners, game days, or cozy nights in. With its deep, smoky flavors and customizable toppings, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chili Base
• For Garnish
• How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
• Step 2: Sauté the Onion
• Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
• Step 4: Add Garlic
• Step 5: Mix in Spices
• Step 6: Pour in Beef Broth
• Step 7: Add Tomatoes and Beans
• Step 8: Simmer
• Step 9: Final Touches
• Step 10: Serve
• How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Toppings
• Accompaniments
• How to Perfect The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Reheating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What ingredients make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?
• Can I customize The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?
• How long does The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili last in the fridge?
• Can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This stovetop chili comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a rich flavor that you won’t forget.
• Versatile Ingredients: Adjust the beans or add extra veggies to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—chili only gets better with time!
• Customizable Toppings: Dress it up with cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs for added flavor and texture.

Tools and Preparation

To create The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or heavy pot: Provides even heat distribution, essential for simmering the chili evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps break up the meat easily.

Ingredients

This rich and flavorful stovetop chili is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy dinner. It features seasoned ground beef, beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes, creating a classic, comforting meal with deep, smoky flavors.

For the Chili Base

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

For Garnish

• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Green onions (optional)
• Cilantro (optional)

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How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef. Cook while breaking it up as it browns for about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat after browning.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Mix in Spices

Add chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine all spices evenly.

Step 6: Pour in Beef Broth

Pour in the beef broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits—this adds flavor!

Step 7: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Stir in fire-roasted crushed tomatoes along with both types of beans.

Step 8: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 1–2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 9: Final Touches

Tip: Keep the pot covered during cooking initially; uncover it during the last 30 minutes to allow thickening as desired.

Step 10: Serve

Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro for added flavor!

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili can elevate your dining experience. It’s versatile and pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides that enhance its rich flavors.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice that adds creaminess and sharpness.
• Sour Cream: Offers a cool contrast to the spicy chili.
• Green Onions: Adds a fresh, crunchy texture to each bite.
• Cilantro: Provides a fresh, herby flavor that brightens the dish.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Perfect for soaking up the chili’s delicious sauce.
• Tortilla Chips: Great for scooping or enjoying on the side for added crunch.
• Rice: A simple, hearty base that complements the chili well.

How to Perfect The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Perfecting The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili involves a few simple techniques that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices will provide more intense flavors.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more chili powder or diced jalapeños according to your preference.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing your chili to simmer for 1–2 hours deepens the flavors significantly.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings during cooking to ensure a perfectly balanced taste.
• Cover Initially, Uncover Later: Start with a lid on to keep moisture in, then uncover to thicken towards the end.

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Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Pairing side dishes with your chili can create a complete meal. Here are some delightful options that complement its rich flavor profile.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, it’s perfect for mopping up chili.
2. Rice: White or brown rice serves as a neutral base that absorbs flavor.
3. Garden Salad: A fresh salad balances the richness of the chili with crisp greens and veggies.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes topped with chili make for a hearty dish.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The gooey cheese contrasts wonderfully with spicy chili.
6. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole adds a refreshing element alongside crunchy chips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using too much liquid: Adding excessive broth can dilute the flavor. Stick to the recipe for best results.
• Not browning the meat: Failing to brown the ground beef properly can lead to a bland chili. Ensure you take your time to get a good sear.
• Skipping spices: Omitting spices like cumin and chili powder can result in a lackluster dish. Use the recommended spices for full flavor.
• Overcooking or undercooking beans: If using dried beans, ensure they are cooked thoroughly beforehand. Canned beans should be rinsed well.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Quick cooking doesn’t allow flavors to meld. Aim for at least an hour of simmering.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili can last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The chili can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer chili into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

The best homemade stovetop chili includes ground beef, beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and various spices that create rich flavors.

Can I customize The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Yes! You can add different beans, vegetables, or adjust the spice levels according to your taste.

How long does The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and can be customized with your favorite toppings or ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please!

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