The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

This rich and flavorful chili is perfect for chilly nights when you want a warm, hearty meal. The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili combines seasoned ground beef, beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes to create a comforting dish that’s great for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its deep, smoky flavors, this chili will be a hit at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This chili is packed with protein from the beef and beans, making it a satisfying choice for dinner.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your chili by adding different spices or toppings based on your preferences.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: This dish freezes well, so you can prepare it in advance for busy weeks.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this stovetop chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen equipment.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for slow-cooking chili; it distributes heat evenly and retains warmth well.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili:

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

• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro

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How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

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

Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Then mix in the chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste until well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Broth and Tomatoes

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

Step 6: Simmer the Chili

Bring your mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 1–2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Tip: Keep the pot covered during the first part of cooking; uncover it during the last 30 minutes to allow the chili to thicken as desired.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro. Enjoy your delicious homemade chili!

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is a delightful experience that enhances the flavors of this hearty dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your chili.

Classic Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A gooey layer of cheddar adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Sour Cream: This cool and tangy topping balances the heat of the chili perfectly.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions lend a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic touch that brightens up every bite.

Accompanying Bread

• Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread complements the spicy notes in the chili.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch and rich flavor to soak up the chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up chili and add an extra texture.

Side Salads

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens balances the richness of the chili.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced chili.

How to Perfect The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Perfecting The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is all about enhancing flavors and achieving the right consistency. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality meat enhance flavor dramatically.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Start with less chili powder if you prefer milder flavors, adding more as needed.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer develops deeper flavors; aim for at least 1 hour.
• Experiment with Beans: While this recipe includes two types of beans, feel free to add black beans or chickpeas for variety.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your chili before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and spices as necessary.
• Let it Rest: Allowing your chili to sit for 30 minutes after cooking can improve its flavor profile.

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Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Pairing side dishes with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and fluffy muffins that complement the spiciness of the chili beautifully.
2. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a filling base for chili, offering a comforting side.
3. Rice: A side of white or brown rice absorbs the flavors and makes for a hearty addition.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Crispy grilled cheese sandwiches offer a deliciously gooey contrast to your chili.
5. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains add an interesting sweet element that pairs well with savory dishes.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy balance, adding color and nutrients to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stovetop chili can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing the onions and garlic enhances the flavor of your chili. Don’t rush this step—take the time to soften them before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking or undercooking the meat: If you overcook the ground beef, it can become tough. Cook just until browned and then drain excess fat.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Chili needs salt and spices to shine. Always taste as you cook and adjust seasonings according to your preference.
• Using low-quality canned ingredients: Quality matters! Choose high-quality fire-roasted tomatoes and beans for a richer flavor profile in your chili.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: A great chili develops its flavors over time. Allow it to simmer for at least an hour for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Portion out chili into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring every minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili special?

This chili is rich and hearty, made with seasoned beef, beans, and fire-roasted tomatoes that create a comforting meal perfect for chilly days.

Can I customize The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, use different types of beans, or adjust spices according to your taste.

How do I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili vegetarian?

Swap out the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

What should I serve with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Serve it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. Toppings like shredded cheese and sour cream also enhance flavors beautifully.

How long does The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 4 days; in the freezer, it can be kept for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it easily based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting bowl of deliciousness!