The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, then you’ve found it! The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is one of those dishes that brings people together. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying or for family gatherings where everyone’s hungry. This chili is not just delicious; it’s also easy to whip up, making it a beloved staple in my kitchen.

What I love most about this chili is how comforting it feels. The aroma wafting through your home will have everyone gathering around, eager to dig in. Plus, it’s packed with flavors from simple ingredients, making it a dish you’ll want to share with friends and family again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create a delicious chili!
• Family-friendly: Kids love it! The combination of beef and beans makes it filling and tasty for all ages.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can make this chili ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Flavor-packed: Each ingredient shines through, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients. They are simple and wholesome, making this chili both nutritious and delicious. You might already have most of these in your pantry!

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 Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese (or any other toppings like sour cream, green onions, cilantro—feel free to get creative!)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the beef with lentils or more beans for a hearty meat-free version.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or some cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

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 any heavy pot over medium-high heat. This step is crucial because it helps sauté the onions beautifully while adding flavor right from the beginning.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Next, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it begins to soften. Sautéing releases its natural sweetness, which will enhance the overall flavor of your chili.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Now it’s time to introduce the ground beef into the pot. Cook it while breaking it up until browned, roughly 5 minutes. This step adds depth to your chili by giving that lovely browned flavor!

Step 4: Add Garlic

Once your beef is nicely browned, drain any excess fat if needed. Then add in minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds. Garlic adds an irresistible aroma and taste that elevates your dish even further.

Step 5: Incorporate Spices

Mix in chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine everything! This step layers in all those wonderful flavors that make this recipe truly special.

Step 6: Pour in Broth

Pour in the beef broth next and stir thoroughly while scraping up any bits stuck at the bottom of your pot. These bits are packed with flavor!

Step 7: Add Tomatoes & Beans

Incorporate crushed tomatoes and both types of beans into your mixture. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to let it simmer gently for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks!

Step 8: Cover & Thicken

Keep your chili covered during most of its cooking time but uncover it during the last 30 minutes to allow it to thicken as needed. This helps develop rich flavors while achieving that thick texture we all love.

Step 9: Serve with Toppings

Finally, serve up your delicious homemade stovetop chili with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs. Enjoy every flavorful bite with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Making the perfect stovetop chili can be a rewarding experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll elevate your dish to a whole new level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your chili. They provide vibrant taste notes that dried ingredients may lack.

• Let it simmer longer: The longer you let your chili simmer, the better the flavors meld together. Aim for at least an hour to allow all those delicious spices to develop and intensify.

• Taste as you go: Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process. Tasting at different stages allows you to create a balanced flavor profile tailored to your preferences.

• Experiment with beans: While kidney and pinto beans are classic choices, consider adding black beans or chickpeas for a unique twist. Each type brings its own texture and flavor!

• Make it ahead of time: Chili often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to settle in. Prepare it in advance and reheat for an easy meal later on!

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving chili can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this comforting dish that everyone will love.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar provides a creamy richness that perfectly complements the spiciness.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast, balancing out the heat while providing a luxurious texture.
• Chopped green onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and crunch, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread is the perfect companion for soaking up all that delicious chili goodness.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a delightful texture contrast while being perfect for dipping or scooping!
• Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as a hearty base that complements the bold flavors of chili.
• Garden salad: A refreshing garden salad made with crisp greens and vibrant vegetables helps balance out the richness of the chili.

Enjoy crafting your own version of The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili! Whether it’s for family dinner or game day, this dish is sure to impress everyone around your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious, hearty meals ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• For best results, divide into single-serving portions.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili.

Can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili without beans?

Absolutely! If you prefer a bean-free version, simply omit the beans and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added flavor and texture.

How long does The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili take to cook?

The total cook time for this chili is approximately 90 minutes, but you can let it simmer longer for a deeper flavor. Just keep an eye on it as it cooks!

What toppings can I use for my chili?

Feel free to get creative! Some popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, or fresh cilantro. You could even add crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch!

Can I make this chili spicier?

Definitely! If you like your chili with an extra kick, consider adding more chili powder or including diced jalapeños. You can always adjust the spice level to suit your taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili as much as I do! This cozy dish not only warms you up but also brings everyone together around the table. Happy cooking and savor every spoonful of this delightful meal!

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