The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

This The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends, this chili is packed with rich flavors from seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, and smoky fire-roasted tomatoes. It’s an ideal choice for game nights, casual gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something satisfying.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chili Base
• For Garnish
• How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Step 1: Sauté the Onions
• Step 2: Brown the Beef
• Step 3: Add Garlic & Spices
• Step 4: Pour in Broth & Tomatoes
• Step 5: Simmer the Chili
• Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
• How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Toppings
• Accompaniments
• How to Perfect The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Reheating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili so special?
• Can I use other meats in this stovetop chili?
• How can I spice up The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?
• What are good toppings for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?
• Can I make this chili vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fire-roasted tomatoes gives this chili a deep, smoky taste that warms the soul.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish without hassle.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your chili by adding more veggies or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
• Great for Entertaining: Serve it at parties or potlucks—everyone loves a hearty bowl of chili!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for even heat distribution and allows for slow cooking, which enhances flavor development.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring your ingredients mix well.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in your chili.

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 ¾ cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (28 oz) can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional, for spicier chili)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Green onions (optional)
• Cilantro (optional)

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How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook while breaking it up as it browns for about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Garlic & Spices

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Pour in Broth & Tomatoes

Pour in the beef broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Stir in fire-roasted crushed tomatoes along with both types of beans.

Step 5: Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 1–2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Tip: Cover the pot during the first part of cooking; uncover it during the last 30 minutes to thicken as desired.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro. Enjoy your delicious homemade stovetop chili!

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili can elevate your dining experience. With various toppings and sides, you can customize each bowl to suit everyone’s taste.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Sour Cream: Provides a cool contrast to the chili’s heat.
• Chopped Green Onions: Offers a fresh, crunchy bite.
• Fresh Cilantro: Enhances the chili with an aromatic touch.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: A classic pairing that complements the chili’s warmth.
• Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up chili or enjoying on the side.
• Rice: Serving over rice can make the meal more filling.

How to Perfect The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

To achieve the most flavorful and satisfying chili, consider these tips:

• Use Quality Meat: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier dish without sacrificing flavor.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer for 1–2 hours deepens the flavors significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the amount of chili powder based on your spice tolerance; add more for a kick!
• Experiment with Beans: Try different bean varieties like black beans or chickpeas for unique textures and tastes.

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Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Pairing your chili with delicious side dishes enhances your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the chili, adding a buttery crunch.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing salad that balances the richness of the chili.
3. Baked Potatoes: Serve the chili over baked potatoes for a hearty twist.
4. Stuffed Peppers: These add a colorful and nutritious element to your dinner plate.
5. Salad Greens: A simple green salad provides freshness and lightness alongside the meal.
6. Grilled Veggies: Adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the spices in the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your chili comes out perfectly.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the ground beef can result in a less flavorful dish. Always take the time to brown the meat thoroughly for depth of flavor.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe and add ingredients gradually for best results.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings as you cook can leave your chili bland. Always taste and tweak spices as needed.
• Rushing the simmering time: Cutting short the simmering time prevents flavors from melding. Allow your chili to simmer low and slow for at least an hour for optimal taste.
• Forgetting toppings: Skipping toppings like cheese or sour cream can make your chili feel incomplete. Don’t forget to add these for an extra layer of flavor!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili so special?

The combination of seasoned ground beef, beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes creates rich flavors that define comfort food.

Can I use other meats in this stovetop chili?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef if you prefer a leaner option.

How can I spice up The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

To spice it up, simply add more chili powder or diced jalapeños during cooking.

What are good toppings for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Popular options include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, and fresh cilantro.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat substitutes and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a standout meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite beans or spices for a personal touch!

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