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Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe

4.7 from 148 reviews

This Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful chili made with browned ground beef, aromatic spices, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and a mix of red kidney and black beans, simmered to perfection on the stovetop. It’s a comforting, protein-packed dish ideal for a cozy meal that’s both easy and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat & Aromatics

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)

Spices

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne (optional)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Base & Liquids

  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted if possible)
  • 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)

Beans

  • 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained & rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
  3. Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, for 5–7 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess fat from the pot if necessary.
  4. Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 1 minute to allow the spices to bloom and intensify their flavors.
  5. Add Tomato Paste and Liquids: Add the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute. Then stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, mixing everything well to combine.
  6. Add Beans and Simmer: Stir in the drained and rinsed red kidney beans and black beans. Allow the chili to simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld.
  7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices if desired. Serve hot, optionally topped with your favorite garnishes like cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, increase cayenne or add chopped jalapeños.
  • Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky depth of flavor.
  • Make sure to rinse and drain canned beans to reduce excess sodium.
  • This chili reheats well and often tastes better the next day.
  • Optional toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.

Keywords: ground beef chili, stovetop chili, easy chili recipe, beef chili, hearty chili, one pot chili