There’s nothing like a big pot of hearty Easy Stovetop Chili simmering on your stove, filling the kitchen with the savory flavors of onions, peppers, and warming spices. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser—simple to make, loaded with nourishing ingredients, and deeply comforting. Each bite delivers just the right balance of smoky heat, tender beans, and flavorful ground beef, making it a go-to for chilly weeknights, lazy Sundays, or those times you want generous leftovers for lunch. Trust me, once you’ve tried this Easy Stovetop Chili, it’ll earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Easy Stovetop Chili shine is how each ingredient brings something essential to the table. From smoky spices to rich tomatoes and creamy beans, the flavors work together in perfect harmony for a chili that’s deeply satisfying, vibrant, and approachable for any home cook.
- Olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing vegetables and creates a silky foundation for the chili.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweet undertones and depth that permeate the entire pot.
- Green bell pepper: Lends fresh color and a mild crunch that brightens every spoonful.
- Garlic: Brings bold, aromatic notes that wake up the whole dish—don’t skip it!
- Ground beef: The star protein of Easy Stovetop Chili, offering richness and heartiness.
- Kidney beans: Classic chili beans, their creamy texture adds body and substance.
- Black beans: Complement the kidney beans with a slightly earthier, robust bite.
- Crushed tomatoes: Envelop everything in a thick, tangy tomato sauce.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and gives the chili its signature thickness.
- Chili powder: The foundation of any chili; brings smoky, peppery warmth.
- Ground cumin: Adds a subtle earthiness that’s unmistakable and essential.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a gentle smokiness—think campfire vibes without the hassle.
- Dried oregano: Offers a floral, herbal lift that brightens the robust flavors.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each ingredient pop.
- Black pepper: For a mild heat and rounded finish.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Kicks up the spice level for those who crave extra heat.
- Water or beef broth: Loosens the chili, melding the flavors together and controlling consistency.
How to Make Easy Stovetop Chili
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your diced onion and chopped bell pepper, stirring occasionally. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes, letting the veggies soften and release their natural sweetness. When things smell irresistible and the onions are translucent, stir in the garlic; just 30 seconds does the trick, turning everything beautifully fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Give it some time—about 5–7 minutes—until it’s deeply browned all over. If there’s any excess grease in the pot, go ahead and drain it off; this keeps your Easy Stovetop Chili rich but not greasy.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir well so the beef and vegetables get fully coated—this helps the spices bloom, deepening their color and flavor. Add the tomato paste at this stage, stirring until the meat and veggies glow with a vibrant, brick-red hue.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, both types of beans, and your choice of water or beef broth. Give everything a thorough stir, scraping up any flavorful bits on the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let your chili cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes. This is where all those bold flavors meld together—stir every so often to prevent sticking, and don’t hesitate to taste and tweak your seasonings.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give your Easy Stovetop Chili one last taste. Is it bold and robust enough for you? Now’s the time to add a pinch of salt, a splash of broth, or a sprinkle of extra chili powder. Remember, chili is all about making it your own—so trust your taste buds!
How to Serve Easy Stovetop Chili
Garnishes
Pile your chili high with fresh toppings for extra flavor and texture. Classic garnishes include shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and crispy tortilla strips. Diced avocado or a sprinkle of hot sauce make delicious finishing touches for your bowl of Easy Stovetop Chili.
Side Dishes
While the chili is completely satisfying on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a thick wedge of cornbread, warm flour tortillas, or even fluffy white rice. For a lighter side, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Easy Stovetop Chili into loaded chili baked potatoes, spoon it over a pile of nachos, or nestle it inside bread bowls for a cozy meal. Leftover chili even makes a mouthwatering topping for hot dogs or fries—ideal for game day or casual get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Easy Stovetop Chili only gets better with time! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen and meld overnight, making your leftovers even more delicious for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This chili freezes absolutely beautifully. Cool completely, then transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags (lay them flat for space-saving storage). It’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or gently in the microwave before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat Easy Stovetop Chili gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if needed. For single servings, microwaving works perfectly—just cover loosely, stir halfway through, and heat until piping hot.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute?
Absolutely! Easy Stovetop Chili is flexible—try lean ground turkey for a lighter option or your favorite plant-based ground for a vegetarian version. The beans and bold spices guarantee no one will miss the beef.
What if I want a spicier chili?
Crank up the heat by adding more cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce. You’re in charge—just taste as you go until the spice level is perfect for you.
Can I make Easy Stovetop Chili in advance?
Definitely! In fact, the flavors seem to get even better after a day in the fridge. Just cool the chili after cooking, transfer to containers, and heat up when you’re ready to serve.
Do I need to drain the beans?
Yes, for the best texture and taste, drain and rinse both cans of beans before adding them to your chili. This helps you avoid excess sodium and keeps your chili from becoming too soupy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Easy Stovetop Chili is naturally gluten-free as written, just double check the labels on your beef broth or any pre-shredded cheese if you’re serving with toppings, as those can sometimes contain additives.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cozy, dependable dish to share with family or friends, you truly can’t go wrong with Easy Stovetop Chili. It’s packed with flavor, comes together with pantry staples, and offers endless ways to make it your own. I hope this recipe finds its way into your favorite meal rotation and brings warmth to your table—give it a try and taste for yourself!
Print
Easy Stovetop Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Stovetop Chili is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that is perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, it’s a classic chili recipe that is easy to make and great for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 pound ground beef
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onion and bell pepper. Add garlic.
- Cook the beef: Brown the ground beef, drain excess grease if needed.
- Season the chili: Add spices, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beans, and liquid.
- Simmer: Bring to a simmer, then cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase cayenne or add jalapeños.
- Ground turkey or plant-based meat can be substituted for beef.
- This chili tastes even better the next day and freezes well.
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