The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the belly, you’ve come to the right place! The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is not just any chili; it’s a comforting bowl of goodness that brings my family together time and again. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe always gets rave reviews. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll find yourself making it over and over!

I can still remember the first time I made this chili. It was one of those chilly evenings when all I wanted was something hearty and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and some time on the stovetop, I created a dish that quickly became a staple in my home. I know you will love it just as much!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights, this recipe comes together in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! It’s packed with flavors they can’t resist.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and heat it up later for even better flavor.
• Customizable Toppings: From cheese to fresh herbs, everyone can create their own perfect bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need to make 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 (plus sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or anything else you like!)

Variations

One of the best things about chili is how flexible it is! Feel free to play around with the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for an extra veggie boost.
• Go vegan: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce if you like things fiery!

How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften. This step helps to release their natural sweetness, which adds depth to your chili.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Introduce the ground beef into the pot. As it cooks, break it up with a spatula until browned—this should take about 5 minutes. Browning adds flavor through caramelization.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pot. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Then mix in chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. This combination creates a wonderful aroma!

Step 4: Incorporate Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the beef broth while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—those bits are packed with flavor! Stir well before adding crushed/diced tomatoes along with red kidney beans and pinto beans.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring your chili mixture to a boil before lowering the heat to let it simmer gently for 1-2 hours. Keep stirring occasionally! This allows all those delightful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Thicken if Necessary

During cooking, keep your pot covered initially. Uncover during the last 30 minutes so that your chili thickens nicely—it should be hearty but not dry.

Step 7: Serve with Love

Ladle your delicious chili into bowls and let everyone choose their favorite toppings! Whether it’s shredded cheese or fresh herbs, topping off each bowl adds an extra touch of comfort.

Enjoy every savory bite of The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Making chili is a labor of love, and with these simple tips, you can elevate your stovetop chili to the next level!

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for organic beef and fresh spices to enhance the overall taste of your chili.

• Let it Simmer: The longer you let your chili simmer, the better the flavors meld together. If you have the time, aim for a simmer closer to two hours for a rich and hearty dish.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder you use. Start with less if you’re unsure, as you can always add more later!

• Add Extra Veggies: For added nutrition and texture, consider tossing in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini. They cook down beautifully and complement the beans and tomatoes perfectly.

• Taste Before Serving: Always give your chili a final taste before serving. You may want to adjust the salt, pepper, or even add a splash of vinegar for brightness!

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving your homemade chili can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to help you present this cozy dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese adds creaminess and richness that balances out the spice.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions bring a fresh crunch that brightens up each bowl.
• Cilantro: Adding fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor that complements the savory notes in your chili.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread makes an excellent companion to chili. Its texture soaks up all those delicious juices!
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping into your chili or enjoying on their own as a snack.
• Mexican Rice: Fluffy cilantro-lime rice pairs wonderfully with chili, providing a delicious and filling side.
• Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad with lime dressing adds creaminess while balancing out the heat from the chili.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or game day with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go on busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also use a microwave; heat in short bursts, stirring between each burst until warmed.

FAQs

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

Can I use different beans in this chili recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for kidney and pinto beans, feel free to mix it up with black beans or chickpeas for a fun twist!

How can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper. You can also top your chili with jalapeños for an extra kick!

What should I serve with my stovetop chili?

This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How do I thicken my homemade chili?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply allow it to simmer uncovered during the last part of cooking. You can also mash some beans against the side of the pot to create a thicker texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives, and ensure your broth is vegetable-based. The taste will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor that brings people together. Whether you’re feeding your family or sharing with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t hesitate to try new toppings along the way—happy cooking!