How long does it take to make Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

Based on our recipe instructions, the total cooking time for the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is approximately 45 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes for preparing the ingredients and initial cooking, and an additional 30 minutes for simmering the chili to develop its flavors.

What ingredients do I need for Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili?

You'll need the following ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 small yellow onion (diced), 1 lb ground beef, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 3 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, 2 tsp garlic powder, 1.5 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, pinch cayenne powder, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 can tomato sauce, 1 can pinto beans, 1 can kidney beans, 3 tbsp tomato paste, 2 tbsp honey, and 2 cups beef broth.

Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just follow the same instructions for browning the meat. If you're vegetarian, you could also use plant-based meat crumbles or additional beans for a protein-rich chili.

What should I do if my chili is too thick?

If your chili turns out too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Start by adding 1/4 cup at a time, stirring well to incorporate the liquid, and continue until you're happy with the texture.

Are there any recommended toppings for the chili?

Yes, there are several optional toppings you can add to enhance your chili's flavor and texture. Popular choices include sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, cheese for richness, chopped green onions for freshness, fritos for crunch, and cilantro for a hint of herbal flavor.

How can I adjust the chili's spiciness?

To adjust the spiciness of your chili, you can modify the amount of cayenne powder. For a milder chili, omit the cayenne powder entirely. If you prefer more heat, you can add extra cayenne or include diced jalapeños. Always taste and adjust gradually to suit your spice tolerance.

Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili: Flavor Explosion in Every Bite!

Name: Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml); 1 small yellow onion, diced; 1 lb ground beef (450 g); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp (45 ml) chili powder; 1 tbsp (15 ml) cumin; 2 tsp (10 ml) garlic powder; 5 tsp (8 ml) salt; 1/2 tsp (3 ml) pepper; pinch cayenne powder; 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes (425 g); 1 15 oz can tomato sauce (425 g); 1 15 oz can pinto beans (425 g); 1 15 oz can kidney beans (425 g); 3 tbsp (45 ml) tomato paste; 2 tbsp (30 ml) honey; 2 cups beef broth (480 ml); optional toppings: sour cream, greek yogurt, cheese, green onion, fritos, cilantro..whatever!

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📑 Table of Contents ▶

Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Mastering the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili
Fundamentals
Preparation/Setup
Creating the Perfect Chili
Technique
Tips/Tricks
Customizing Your Chili Experience
Perfecting Results
Troubleshooting/Variations
Serving and Storing Your Chili
Serving/Presentation
Pairings/Storage
Conclusion
FAQs – Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Every autumn, as the leaves begin to turn and the air gets that crisp bite, I find myself drawn to the warmth and comfort of a hearty, homemade chili. There’s something magical about stirring a pot of the best ground beef stovetop chili, the aroma filling the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. This dish isn’t just about the flavors; it’s about the memories it evokes, the laughter shared over steaming bowls, and the simple pleasure of a meal made with love.

Growing up, my family had a tradition of making chili together on chilly weekends. We’d all have our roles, from chopping onions to mixing spices, each step bringing us closer to the moment we could dig in. The best ground beef stovetop chili was always the star of these gatherings, a recipe passed down through generations, tweaked and perfected over time.

This chili isn’t just a meal; it’s a story. It’s a reminder of those cozy evenings spent in the kitchen, the joy of cooking something from scratch, and the anticipation of that first, flavorful bite. Every ingredient plays a part, from the robust ground beef to the tangy tomatoes, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate.

As I share this recipe with you, I hope it brings the same warmth and joy to your home as it has to mine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this best ground beef stovetop chili recipe is a delightful way to create your own cherished memories. Let’s dive into the world of flavors and make something truly special together.

Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

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Author: Luna
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: Mexican

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Description

Learn how to make the best stovetop chili using ground beef with this easy recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in, packed with flavor and ready in no time!

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 lb ground beef (450 g)
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp (45 ml) chili powder
1 tbsp (15 ml) cumin
2 tsp (10 ml) garlic powder
5 tsp (8 ml) salt
1/2 tsp (3 ml) pepper
pinch cayenne powder
1 15 oz can diced tomatoes (425 g)
1 15 oz can tomato sauce (425 g)
1 15 oz can pinto beans (425 g)
1 15 oz can kidney beans (425 g)
3 tbsp (45 ml) tomato paste
2 tbsp (30 ml) honey
2 cups beef broth (480 ml)
optional toppings: sour cream, greek yogurt, cheese, green onion, fritos, cilantro..whatever!

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Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm up the olive oil on medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and let it cook for 2-3 minutes before adding the ground beef.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then incorporate the minced garlic.
After the meat has browned, mix in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, pinto beans, kidney beans, tomato paste, honey, and beef broth. Stir everything until well blended.
Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil, then lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finish by adding your choice of toppings like sour cream, cheese, green onion, fritos, or cilantro.

Notes

Consider using lean ground beef or turkey to reduce the fat content of the chili.
Try using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
For a thicker chili, mash some beans before adding them to the pot.

Mastering the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Fundamentals

The best ground beef stovetop chili starts with quality ingredients and a bit of patience. Ground beef serves as the hearty base, while a combination of diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste provides depth and tang. Spice is key, with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne creating a symphony of flavors. Don’t forget the honey, which balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.

Beans add texture and heartiness to the chili. The combination of pinto and kidney beans offers a delightful contrast and absorb the rich flavors of the broth. The magic happens when these ingredients come together, simmering slowly to develop that iconic chili taste.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by warming olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This forms the base for sautéing the diced yellow onion until it’s translucent. Adding the ground beef comes next, allowing it to brown and develop a rich, savory foundation.

Incorporate minced garlic to enhance the flavor profile, followed by a blend of spices that will permeate every bite. Once the ground beef is browned and aromatic, add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, tomato paste, honey, and beef broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the ingredients meld harmoniously.

Creating the Perfect Chili

Technique

To achieve the best ground beef stovetop chili, patience is your best friend. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. This slow simmering process lets the flavors deepen and fuse, creating a rich, savory chili that warms you from the inside out.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. This technique transforms simple ingredients into a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Tips/Tricks

For an even richer flavor, let the chili simmer longer, up to an hour, if time allows. This extra time enhances the harmony of spices and the depth of the beef and tomato base. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the broth slightly or let the chili simmer uncovered towards the end.

Experiment with toppings to add texture and flavor. Sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess, while shredded cheese provides a melty richness. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle fritos or chopped green onions on top. Each bite becomes a delightful exploration of textures and tastes.

Customizing Your Chili Experience

Perfecting Results

Adjusting the spice level is key to personalizing your best ground beef stovetop chili. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the chili powder or omit the cayenne. For those who love a bit of heat, add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.

Texture is another area for customization. For a smoother chili, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot. This method adds creaminess without changing the core flavor of the dish.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your chili turns out too thick, simply add a bit more beef broth until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid. Adding a pinch of sugar can balance overly acidic flavors from the tomatoes.

Consider incorporating different beans for variety. Black beans or chickpeas offer unique textures and flavors, while maintaining the hearty quality of the chili. For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for more beans or a plant-based protein alternative.

Serving and Storing Your Chili

Serving/Presentation

Present your best ground beef stovetop chili in your favorite bowls, allowing guests to customize their toppings. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds color and a burst of freshness, while a dollop of sour cream can tame the heat and add creaminess.

For a fun twist on presentation, serve the chili over a bed of rice or alongside warm, crusty bread. These additions not only enhance the meal but also make it more filling, perfect for those cold evenings when you need extra warmth.

Pairings/Storage

This chili pairs well with any number of sides. Consider a fresh salad or cornbread to complement the robust flavors. For more creative meal ideas, explore Quick and Easy Honey Garlic Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry or Green Chile Stew with Ground Beef.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This chili also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Conclusion

The best ground beef stovetop chili is more than just a dish; it’s a journey through flavors and memories. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. This chili stands out for its rich, savory taste and versatility, making it a staple in any kitchen.

Remember, cooking is about experimentation and personalization. Adjust the spices, play with toppings, and make this chili your own. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe promises warmth and joy with every bite.

Explore other delicious ground beef recipes like Ground Beef Tacos or try something unique with Ground Beef and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes. Let your culinary adventures begin!