This stovetop chili is hearty and full of flavor! With ground meat, beans, and delicious spices, it’s a perfect meal for chilly days or family gatherings.
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just toss everything in one pot, let it simmer, and enjoy! Plus, it gets better the longer it sits, making leftovers a win! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for ground beef, but ground turkey is a great lighter option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or crumbled tofu instead!
Kidney Beans: These beans add texture and protein. You can substitute black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Canned beans work perfectly, just make sure to rinse them first!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin give that classic chili flavor. If you’re out of chili powder, you can mix paprika, cayenne, and a bit of ground cumin for a similar taste. Don’t forget to adjust spice levels to suit your taste!
Tomato Paste: This thickens the chili and adds depth. If you don’t have tomato paste, use an extra can of diced tomatoes and adjust the liquid accordingly.
How Do I Get the Flavors to Shine?
To really enhance the flavors of your chili, you should toast the spices along with the cooked meat. The heat helps release their oils, making the dish much more aromatic. Here’s how:
- After browning the meat, add your spices, and stir them around for about a minute. This step is crucial!
- Keep an eye on the simmering time; letting it cook uncovered for the last few minutes will help thicken it up nicely.
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving! A little more salt or spice can make all the difference.
By being mindful of these key points, you’ll end up with a delicious and satisfying chili that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking! 🍲
How to Make Stovetop Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen or canned corn kernels
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple stovetop chili requires about 15 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious chili in about 45 minutes total. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, throw in the diced onions and cook them until they turn translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to let that garlic aroma fill your kitchen.
2. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, and keep stirring until it’s browned and no longer pink—this should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat in the pot, feel free to drain some of it off, but keep a bit for flavor.
3. Mix in the Spices:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and a dash of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture with the meat for about 1 minute. This toasting of the spices will really amp up the flavor!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, add in the diced tomatoes (make sure to pour in all the juices too!), tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, and corn. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.
5. Simmer and Stir:
Bring the chili to a nice simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially with a lid and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom.
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste your chili. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if you’d like to kick up the flavor even more!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Dish up your chili in bowls, and feel free to top it with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions. Enjoy with some crackers or tortilla chips on the side for a complete meal!
This stovetop chili is not only simple to make but also hearty and delicious, making it perfect for those cozy days at home. Enjoy your cooking! 🌶️
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options like lentils for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking times as needed!
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or some cayenne pepper when you mix in the spices. Adjust gradually to reach your desired heat level!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this chili in advance! Prepare it up to two days ahead and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat on the stove until warmed through. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it for a longer period, freeze it in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
