If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that bursts with flavor, you’ve just found it: the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is a dish that delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. This chili brings together perfectly seasoned ground beef, smoky spices, tender beans, and luscious tomatoes to create a bowl that feels like a big, cozy hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just looking for a reliable meal to please the whole family, this recipe is straightforward, wonderfully flavorful, and guaranteed to become your go-to chili recipe.

Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a vital role in building the rich, hearty flavor and texture of the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili. From the tender diced onions that add sweetness to the smoked paprika enhancing the smoky depth, every element matters.

Olive oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and enhances flavors without overpowering the dish.
Large onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and tender texture as the chili cooks.
Garlic, minced: Infuses the chili with a fragrant, savory base.
Ground beef (80/20 or leaner): Provides hearty protein and a rich, meaty backbone.
Chili powder: The essential spice blend that gives the chili its signature warmth and complexity.
Cumin: Deepens the flavor with earthy, nutty notes.
Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky nuance that enhances the chili’s depth.
Cayenne (optional): Brings a spicy kick depending on your heat preference.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors perfectly.
Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, making the chili extra rich and thick.
Diced tomatoes (fire-roasted if possible): Adds brightness and a hint of smoky sweetness.
Beef broth (low-sodium preferred): Builds a savory base and perfect consistency without overwhelming saltiness.
Red kidney beans, drained & rinsed: Offers a creamy, hearty bite and classic chili texture.
Black beans, drained & rinsed: Adds a lovely earthiness and balances the chili’s flavors.

How to Make Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step is crucial as it lays down a sweet, mellow foundation for the chili. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant but not browned, to keep its fresh sharpness alive in the dish.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Increase the heat to medium-high and add your ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink. This step is where all those meaty, savory flavors really start to develop. If there’s excess fat, drain it off now so your chili stays rich but not greasy.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir these into the beef and onion mixture and cook for about one minute. This allows the spices to bloom and release their very best flavors into the dish, creating that signature chili aroma you love.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth

Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen its flavor. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes along with the beef broth. Stir everything together, making sure the tomato paste melds nicely with the liquids, setting the stage for a rich, luscious chili base.

Step 5: Add Beans and Simmer

Finally, stir in the red kidney beans and black beans, then leave the chili to simmer uncovered on low heat for 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow simmer thickens the chili beautifully and allows the flavors to marry perfectly. Towards the end, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed — a little extra salt or a dash more spice can make all the difference.

How to Serve Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Garnishes

Toppings can turn your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili into a personalized feast. Freshly chopped cilantro or green onions bring brightness and color. A dollop of sour cream or creamy avocado lends cooling balance, especially if you opted for cayenne in the recipe. Don’t forget shredded cheese for a melty, indulgent finish and maybe some crunchy tortilla chips or jalapeño slices for extra texture and heat.

Side Dishes

This chili pairs wonderfully with warm cornbread, buttery mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad for freshness. Rice is also a fantastic option if you prefer a more filling meal, absorbing the chili’s rich juices perfectly. Corn tortillas or crusty bread make great companions to scoop up every last bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili over baked potatoes or inside bell peppers. You can even turn it into a chili bar where everyone adds their favorite garnishes and sides. For a game day or casual party, spooning the chili over nachos topped with cheese transforms it into a crowd-pleasing dip.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chili gets better as the flavors meld over time! Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 to 4 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to keep the texture just right.

Freezing

The Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your chili gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until piping hot. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to ensure even warmth. If reheated chili seems thick, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I make this chili without beans?

Absolutely! If you prefer a bean-free chili, simply skip the kidney and black beans. You’ll still get plenty of meaty, spicy goodness from the ground beef and seasonings.

What kind of ground beef is best for stovetop chili?

Ground beef with an 80/20 ratio (lean to fat) gives juicy, flavorful results without being too greasy. You can use leaner beef if you want less fat, but the richer beef often adds more depth to the chili.

How spicy is this chili, and can I adjust the heat?

This chili has a balanced warmth with an optional kick from cayenne pepper. Feel free to leave out the cayenne or add more according to your taste. You can also experiment with other chili powders for different spice levels.

Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker instead of on the stovetop?

Yes! After browning your beef and sautéing the aromatics, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cook method also develops rich flavors but won’t have quite the same texture as the stovetop simmer.

What toppings do you recommend for serving?

Classic toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, and avocado work wonderfully. Adding crunchy elements like tortilla chips or crushed corn chips also elevates the texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve made the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili, it’s hard not to fall in love with its rich, comforting flavors and straightforward preparation. It’s a recipe that welcomes you home, perfect for chilly evenings, gatherings, or whenever you want a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own kitchen classic!

Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 12 reviews

Author: Rafael
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners. Made with ground beef, a blend of spices, tomatoes, and beans, it simmers to a thick, rich chili that’s both comforting and easy to prepare on your stovetop.

Instructions

Heat and sauté onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent.
Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned. If there is excess fat, drain it to avoid greasiness.
Add spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to bloom the spices and intensify their flavors.
Add tomato paste and liquids: Mix in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. Then add the diced tomatoes and beef broth, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
Add beans and simmer: Add drained kidney beans and black beans to the pot. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 40 minutes until the chili thickens and flavors meld together.
Season and serve: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Notes

Use lean ground beef for a less greasy chili, or 80/20 for more flavor.
Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add a smoky depth but regular canned tomatoes work well.
Feel free to customize the beans to your liking or omit for a low-carb version.
The cayenne pepper is optional; adjust the spice level according to taste.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days and freeze nicely.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American