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Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe

Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe

4.7 from 6 reviews

This Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for any day of the week. Made with lean ground beef, rich spices, diced tomatoes, and beans, it’s an easy one-pot meal that simmers to perfection, delivering a comforting balance of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. Ideal for chili lovers looking for a classic, satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Beans and Tomatoes

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

Spices and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Liquids and Oils

  • 2 cups beef broth
  • Olive oil, for sautéing

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent, building a flavor base.
  2. Cook the garlic: Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
  3. Brow the ground beef: Add ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Add the seasonings: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to coat beef and onions, cooking for 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices.
  5. Add the tomato paste: Stir in tomato paste thoroughly with beef and spices. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken and enhance tomato flavor.
  6. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour diced tomatoes and beef broth into the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Stir and bring to a simmer. Lower heat and cook for 20-25 minutes until flavors meld and chili thickens.
  7. Add the beans: Stir in kidney beans and black beans. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes so beans heat through and absorb flavors.
  8. Adjust seasoning: Taste chili and add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to your preference. Add extra beef broth if chili is too thick.
  9. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Enjoy hot!

Notes

  • You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option with less fat.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper amount or omit for less heat.
  • If you want a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for extra time.
  • Add toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or avocado slices for more flavor texture.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze well for up to 3 months.
  • Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef chili, stovetop chili, easy chili recipe, beef chili, homemade chili, spicy chili