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Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe

4.7 from 68 reviews

This Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for cozy meals. Featuring rich ground beef, a blend of spices, tomatoes, and beans, this chili simmers to perfection on the stovetop, delivering a deliciously thick and aromatic result. It’s easy to prepare, customizable for heat preference, and great for family dinners or meal prepping.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

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

Canned Goods

  • 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, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base.
  2. Cook the garlic: Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it to avoid bitterness.
  3. Brown the ground beef: Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
  4. Add the seasonings: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the meat and onions. Stir well to coat and cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
  5. Add the tomato paste: Stir in tomato paste thoroughly with the beef and spices. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken the chili and enhance the tomato flavor.
  6. Add the tomatoes and broth: Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes to meld flavors and thicken the mixture.
  7. Add the beans: Stir in the drained kidney beans and black beans. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to heat the beans through and allow them to absorb the chili flavors.
  8. Adjust the seasoning: Taste and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder as desired. If the chili is too thick, add a bit more beef broth to achieve the preferred consistency.
  9. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or cilantro. Enjoy warm.

Notes

  • For a leaner chili, choose lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
  • The cayenne pepper is optional; adjust according to your spice preference or omit for milder chili.
  • If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer longer to reduce liquid further.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • For additional depth, consider adding a splash of beer or a tablespoon of cocoa powder during simmering.
  • Serve with cornbread or over rice for a more filling meal.

Keywords: ground beef chili, stovetop chili recipe, easy chili, beef chili with beans, dinner recipe, hearty chili