The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
Cozy Comfort in a Bowl (The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili)
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chili to warm your heart and soul! This The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is a delightful medley of rich flavors, perfectly spiced to embrace you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. With its luscious fire-roasted tomatoes, tender beans, and a tempting mix of spices, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Each spoonful brings comfort, making it the perfect centerpiece for family dinners, game days, or any occasion when you need a little cheer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chili isn’t just another meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and warmth! Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels:
– Big, Bold Flavors: Packed with savory spices and hearty ingredients, every bite is a burst of deliciousness.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings! Your family and friends will be begging for the recipe.
– Flexible & Fast: Quick to whip up and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
– Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for meal prep, this chili only gets better as the flavors meld over time!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Get ready to bring your culinary dreams to life! This chili calls for a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a masterpiece in a pot. The star players? The fire-roasted crushed tomatoes and rich beef broth elevate this dish to new heights of flavor!
– 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 1/2 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, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or anything else you like!
*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*
Variations
One of the best things about The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is how adaptable it is! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:
– Go Gluten-Free: Ensure your broth and tomato paste are gluten-free for a worry-free meal.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in beans for a vegetarian version, or even some shredded chicken for variety.
– Make it Spicier: Increase the chili powder or add diced jalapeños for a fiery kick!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different types of beans or tomatoes based on your pantry inventory.
– Cheese it Up: Mix in cream cheese for an ultra-creamy chili, or try adding different cheeses on top for a flavor twist!
How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Here’s how you can whip up The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili in just a few simple steps:
Step 1: Heat Things Up
Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat, letting it shimmer and get ready for action.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes, until it starts to soften. The aroma will be heavenly!
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Introduce the ground beef to the pot, using a spoon to break it up. Cook until it’s beautifully browned, around 5 minutes.
Step 4: Flavor Boost
Drain any excess fat, then add the minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds, letting the garlic infuse the mixture with its magic.
Step 5: Spice It Up
Mix in the chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine and let those spices dance together!
Step 6: Pour in the Goodness
Pour in the beef broth, stirring to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This is where the flavor magic truly starts!
Step 7: Add the Stars
Incorporate the fire-roasted tomatoes and beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 8: Simmer to Perfection
Cover the chili for the first part of the cooking time. Then, uncover it during the last 30 minutes to let it thicken to your desired consistency.
Step 9: Serve and Savor
Dish up your chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Dive in with a spoon and savor every bite!
Pro Tips for Making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
Want to elevate your chili game even further? Check out these pro tips:
– Let it Rest: Allow the chili to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld perfectly.
– Taste & Adjust: Don’t forget to taste your chili before serving! Adjust the seasonings to fit your personal preference.
– Use Quality Beef Broth: A good quality beef broth makes all the difference in flavor!
– Don’t Rush the Simmer: Low and slow is key here; give it time to develop those deep, rich flavors.
How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
Garnishes
Elevate your chili with garnishes that bring delightful textures and flavors! Think creamy sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or sliced green onions.
Side Dishes
Pair your chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad for a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your chili in fun individual cups or bowls, or make a chili bar where guests can customize their toppings. It’s a party on a plate!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You’ll love having this comforting dish ready for a quick meal!
Freezing
Yes, you can absolutely freeze this chili! It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Reheating
To enjoy your frozen chili, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm and cozy.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works just as well. Just be sure to add a bit more seasoning.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level is customizable! You can adjust the chili powder to your liking, or leave it out entirely for a milder flavor.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply ensure your beef broth and tomato paste are gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! This chili is ideal for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and enjoy the enhanced flavors the next day!
Final Thoughts
In a world full of culinary choices, The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili stands out as a beacon of comfort and flavor. It’s a dish that invites warmth, laughter, and love to your table, making it a must-try for any occasion. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a cozy bowl of happiness. Your taste buds will thank you!
The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this homemade stovetop chili. Bursting with rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this classic American dish is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Ground beef, kidney beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes come together in a savory broth, making it a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Top it off with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs for added flavor. Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, this chili will warm your soul and please your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 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 (drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1½ teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks for approximately 5 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste; mix well.
- Pour in beef broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to release any stuck bits.
- Incorporate crushed tomatoes and both types of beans. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to simmer gently for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. Cover initially; uncover during the last 30 minutes to thicken.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 407
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 1139mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 11g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 54mg