The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or even meal prep, this chili is hearty and satisfying. With its rich blend of spices, tender beans, and savory beef broth, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 20 minutes of prep time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber from the beans and beef, this chili keeps you full for hours.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices creates a robust flavor that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your chili with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs to suit everyone’s taste.
• Great for Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on this delicious stovetop chili, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for even cooking and simmering the chili over a long period.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results in flavor.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion chopped
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic minced

For the Liquids

• 1 ¾ cups beef broth
• 28 oz can fire roasted crushed tomatoes
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste

For the Beans

• 15 oz can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 oz can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)

For Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional for a hotter chili)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Topping

• Shredded cheddar cheese (sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or anything else you like!)

How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Warm the Oil

Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or any heavy pot over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sauté Onion

Add the onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it begins to soften.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Introduce the ground beef into the pot. Cook while breaking it up until it browns, roughly 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Drain any excess fat. Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir for about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Mix in Seasonings

Mix in the chili powder, ground cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 6: Add Broth

Pour in the beef broth while scraping up any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot. Stir well.

Step 7: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans

Add the crushed tomatoes along with both types of beans. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 8: Simmer

Lower the heat after boiling. Let it simmer gently for about 1-2 hours while stirring occasionally.

Step 9: Thicken Chili

Keep the chili covered during most of the cooking time. Uncover it during the last 30 minutes to allow it to thicken as desired.

Step 10: Serve

Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese or fresh herbs!

How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Serving chili is as enjoyable as making it. The rich flavors and warm spices make it a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy nights in. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese – A classic choice that adds creaminess and sharpness.
• Sour cream – Provides a cool contrast to the heat of the chili.
• Green onions – Adds a fresh, crunchy texture and mild onion flavor.
• Cilantro – For those who love fresh herbs, cilantro offers a burst of flavor.
• Avocado slices – Creamy avocado complements the dish beautifully.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Soft, buttery cornbread pairs well with chili’s hearty texture.
• Rice – Serve chili over rice for a filling meal that balances flavors.
• Tortilla chips – Crunchy chips make for a fun way to scoop up chili.
• Salad – A simple green salad provides freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Perfecting your stovetop chili can take it from good to great. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking skills.

• Use quality meat – Opt for fresh ground beef for better flavor and texture.
• Adjust spiciness – Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder according to your taste preferences.
• Let it simmer longer – The longer you let it cook, the deeper the flavors will develop; aim for at least 90 minutes.
• Incorporate beans wisely – Rinse canned beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve taste.
• Experiment with spices – Don’t hesitate to add additional spices like paprika or cayenne for more complexity.
• Taste as you go – Regularly sample your chili during cooking; adjust seasonings as needed.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

Pairing side dishes with your chili can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Cornbread – Sweet and savory cornbread adds a delightful texture alongside spicy chili.
2. Rice – Fluffy white or brown rice serves as a base that absorbs the rich flavors of the chili.
3. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole brings freshness and richness that complements the dish perfectly.
4. Baked Potatoes – Serve chili over baked potatoes for a comforting twist on traditional toppings.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the heat of the chili.
6. Vegetable Platter – Fresh veggies provide a healthy, crunchy option for dipping into your chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili can be simple, but mistakes can lead to a less satisfying dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Boldly skip the seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland chili. Always taste and adjust spices as needed during cooking.
• Boldly ignore the simmering time: Not allowing enough simmering time can prevent flavors from developing. Aim for at least an hour for the best taste.
• Boldly overlook ingredient prep: Chopping ingredients unevenly can lead to inconsistent cooking. Ensure all vegetables are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
• Boldly use low-quality broth: A weak broth will dilute flavor. Opt for high-quality beef broth for a richer chili experience.
• Boldly rush the cooking process: Cooking chili too quickly can affect texture and flavor development. Be patient and allow it to simmer gently.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through, usually around 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili.

Can I make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili ahead of time?

Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.

What toppings go well with The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro. Feel free to customize based on your preference!

How spicy is The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili?

The spiciness largely depends on how much chili powder you add. Start with a tablespoon and adjust according to your taste.

Can I substitute ground beef in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative while maintaining great flavor.

Final Thoughts

The appeal of The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili lies in its rich flavors and versatility. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite beans or toppings!