Stovetop Ground Beef Chili

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of stovetop ground beef chili on a chilly evening. This classic comfort food is not only deeply satisfying but also quick enough to make on a busy weeknight. With bold spices, tender ground beef, beans, and a rich tomato base, it’s a one-pot meal that’s as hearty as it is flavorful.

Whether you’re feeding your family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving a cozy, filling dish, this ground beef chili delivers every time. In under an hour, you can have a robust, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Chili

• Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for weeknights.
• One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Hearty and filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and bold spices.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels, beans, or toppings to taste.
• Meal prep-friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners.
• Classic comfort: A timeless American dish that everyone loves.

Ingredients Breakdown

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes

For the Chili

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne (optional, for heat)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted if possible)
• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained & rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Chopped green onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Tortilla chips or cornbread
• Lime wedges

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Garlic press (optional, for minced garlic)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Ladle for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

Add 1 lb ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Browning develops rich flavor that forms the base of the chili.

3. Bloom the Spices

Stir in 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon cayenne (if using), and salt & pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices and enhance their aroma.

4. Build the Base

Add 1 can tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring to incorporate it into the meat and spices. Then, pour in 15 oz diced tomatoes and 2 cups beef broth, stirring to combine thoroughly.

5. Add Beans and Simmer

Stir in red kidney beans and black beans. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken, flavors will meld, and the sauce will become rich and hearty.

6. Taste and Adjust

Taste your chili before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.

7. Serve and Garnish

Serve hot in bowls, and top with your choice of garnishes such as cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or tortilla chips. A squeeze of lime adds a bright finishing touch.

Tips & Variations

Adjusting Spice Levels

• Reduce cayenne for a milder chili.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for smokier depth.

Vegetarian Option

• Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans.
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Make Ahead & Meal Prep

• Chili flavors improve overnight. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Extra Hearty Chili

• Add diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
• Swap one can of beans for cooked lentils for more fiber and texture.

Quick Weeknight Shortcut

• Use canned pre-minced garlic to save prep time.
• Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes for extra flavor without extra steps.

Flavor Profile

This stovetop ground beef chili is:

• Savory: Rich, meaty flavor from ground beef and beef broth.
• Spicy: Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and optional cayenne provide warmth.
• Tangy: Tomato paste and diced tomatoes balance the spice.
• Hearty: Beans add texture, protein, and fiber.
• Comforting: Thick, warm, and perfect for cold evenings.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Cool completely, then freeze in single or family-size portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid high heat to prevent scorching.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use leaner ground beef?
Yes, leaner beef works fine. You may need to add a little oil for browning.

2. Can this chili be made in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté onions first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.

3. Can I omit beans?
Yes, for a low-carb version, simply omit beans. Add extra vegetables to maintain bulk.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chili powder and broth.

5. How do I thicken the chili?
Simmer longer uncovered to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mash some of the beans or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

6. What to serve with this chili?
Cornbread, warm tortillas, or crusty bread complement the chili perfectly. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep ingredients	10–15 minutes
Sauté onions & garlic	3–4 minutes
Brown ground beef	5–7 minutes
Bloom spices & add tomato paste	2 minutes
Add liquids & beans	2 minutes
Simmer uncovered	30–40 minutes
Total	50–55 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in bowls with optional garnishes like cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or tortilla chips.
• Pair with cornbread or crusty bread for soaking up the rich sauce.
• For a complete meal, add a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Ingredient Spotlight

Ground Beef

• Provides rich, savory flavor and protein.
• Use 80/20 for optimal flavor; leaner beef requires extra oil.

Chili Powder

• Essential for authentic chili flavor.
• Combine with cumin and smoked paprika to create depth.

Beans

• Kidney and black beans add heartiness, protein, and fiber.
• Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and improve flavor.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Bloom spices: Cooking spices briefly in fat enhances their aroma.
• Simmer uncovered: Reduces liquid and concentrates flavor.
• Layer flavors: Browning beef, sautéing aromatics, and adding tomato paste sequentially creates depth.
• Taste and adjust: Chili flavors develop over time, but final seasoning is essential.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerate: Airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Portion and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: On the stovetop over low heat to maintain texture and flavor.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	400
Protein	25g
Carbs	35g
Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	7g
Fiber	10g
Sodium	800mg
Cholesterol	70mg
Notes	Gluten-free if chili powder and broth are GF. Dairy-free if toppings are omitted.

Expanded Conclusion

This Stovetop Ground Beef Chili is the ultimate one-pot comfort food: hearty, spicy, and full of flavor. With tender beef, rich tomato sauce, hearty beans, and warming spices, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.

It’s versatile, easy to make, and infinitely customizable. Add toppings, swap ingredients, or adjust spices to suit your taste. Once you try this chili, it will become your go-to recipe for satisfying, cozy meals any night of the week.

Gather your ingredients, fire up the stovetop, and enjoy a bowl of this comforting chili that’s packed with flavor and love.

Print