If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty meal to warm up your evenings, look no further than the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili. This recipe is a wonderful medley of rich, savory ground beef combined with a vibrant mix of beans, tomatoes, and warming spices. It’s the perfect bowl of chili that delivers bold flavors, satisfying textures, and just the right touch of heat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy dinner, this chili will quickly become your go-to for an easy, delicious stovetop meal that doesn’t require hours or fancy ingredients.

Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role, making the chili taste just right. They are straightforward, easy to find, and come together beautifully to build layers of flavor, texture, and color.

1 lb ground beef: Ground beef is the star of this recipe. It gives the chili that rich, meaty texture and flavor. You can use lean ground beef if you prefer less fat.

1 large onion, diced: Onions add a nice sweetness and depth to the chili, balancing the spices perfectly.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must in any chili recipe—its savory flavor is key.

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds body and a tangy flavor to the chili that keeps it vibrant.
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Kidney beans provide a creamy texture and are a great source of protein.

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Black beans give the chili a slight earthy flavor and are a great addition to the mix.
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Tomato paste thickens the chili and intensifies the tomato flavor.
2 tablespoons chili powder: The heart of the chili’s flavor, bringing warmth and depth.

1 teaspoon cumin: Adds a smoky, earthy undertone that rounds out the spices.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a touch of smokiness that complements the beef beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Optional, for a spicy kick that you can adjust to your taste.

Salt and pepper: To taste, essential for balancing all the flavors.
2 cups beef broth: This helps create a rich, flavorful base for the chili and keeps it perfectly saucy.
Olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics, which lifts all the flavors in the pot.

How to Make Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. This first step builds a solid flavor base that’s essential to the chili’s richness. Add the minced garlic next and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn. This gentle sauté releases their natural sweetness and an aromatic foundation that will infuse the whole dish.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial because the browned bits bring that deep, savory flavor that makes this the Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it to keep the chili from getting greasy.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you want a little heat. Stir everything well so the beef and onions get coated in these fragrant spices. Let them cook for 1 to 2 minutes to really wake up the flavors—that little bit of cooking time transforms the spices and builds complexity.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomato Paste

Mix in the tomato paste thoroughly with the beef and spices. This thickens the chili and sharpens the tomato flavor, making each bite richer. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, so it caramelizes slightly and blends beautifully with the other ingredients.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes, Broth, Salt, and Pepper

Now pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then give everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook gently for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the chili will thicken to a hearty consistency that hugs every spoonful.

Step 6: Stir in the Beans

Once the chili has thickened, it’s time to add the kidney beans and black beans. Stir them into the pot and let the chili simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the beans to warm through and soak up all those beautiful spices and tomato juices.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste your chili before serving and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you want to dial up the intensity. If the chili is too thick, stir in a bit more beef broth until it reaches your perfect consistency. Now it’s ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

Garnishes

Bringing your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili to life is half about the garnishes. Consider shredded cheddar cheese for a melty, creamy addition, dollops of sour cream or Greek yogurt to add a cool tang that balances the spice, and chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Sliced jalapeños or diced avocado can give some extra texture and flavor contrast. These simple toppings truly elevate each bowl into something special and personalized.

Side Dishes

Pairing this chili with the right sides is an easy way to complete your meal. Classic cornbread is a beloved choice thanks to its crumbly sweetness that softens every spicy bite. Warm tortilla chips or crispy bread bowls make for great dipping companions. If you want something lighter, a crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette will complement the chili’s richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili into something a little different? Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or baked potatoes for a satisfying twist. You can also use it as a filling for chili-topped nachos or stuffed peppers. These fun variations keep things exciting and let you showcase this fantastic chili in unexpected ways.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have had time to fully develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it a perfect recipe for meal prep or busy nights when you want a quick, hearty dinner.

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic option for bulk cooking. Cool the chili completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the chili gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring every minute to heat evenly. Either way, your Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili will come back to life in minutes.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, but keep in mind it will change the flavor profile slightly. You might want to adjust the spices to make up for the milder meat taste.

Is it necessary to use both kidney and black beans?

Not at all. Using one type of bean is perfectly fine if that’s what you have on hand. Kidney beans add creaminess, while black beans bring an earthy flavor, so combining them gives great texture and taste, but feel free to customize.

Can I make this chili spicy or mild?

Yes! The recipe includes cayenne pepper as an optional spice for heat. To make it milder, simply leave that out. To make it spicier, add more cayenne, chili powder, or even some chopped fresh chilies.

What can I substitute for beef broth?

If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth works just fine. You can also use water with a bit of bouillon or seasoning to keep the rich flavor intact.

How thick should the chili be when done?

The Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili should be thick enough to hold its shape in a bowl but still saucy enough to be comforting and spoonable. If it gets too thick as it cools, simply add a little broth or water when reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is an absolute crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and bold flavor to your table with ease. From the first sizzling step to the last spoonful, it’s a recipe that feels like a big, delicious hug. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite chili that everyone will ask you to make again and again.