This quick chili on the stove top is perfect for a cozy meal! It’s packed with beans, ground meat, and a mix of spices that’ll warm your heart.
Sometimes, all you need is a bowl of chili and some crackers. I love how fast this comes together—just sauté, stir, and simmer. Easy peasy! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for this chili, but ground turkey or chicken can work as a lighter alternative. You can also make it vegetarian by using lentils or mushrooms instead!
Kidney Beans: These beans add great texture. If you’re not a fan, pinto or black beans are excellent substitutes. Canned beans are convenient, but cooking dried beans can add extra flavor.
Onion & Garlic: I prefer yellow onions for their sweetness when cooked. If you’re allergic or just not a fan, shallots or even leeks can add a nice flavor. Garlic powder can replace fresh garlic if needed.
Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes: For those who want more freshness, chopped fresh tomatoes can work instead of canned. You can also use tomato paste mixed with water if that’s what you have on hand.
Chili Powder & Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder based on your spice tolerance. For a kick, try adding cayenne pepper or jalapeños. If you want, you can also add spices like oregano or coriander for extra depth.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Flavor in My Chili?
One important step for amazing flavor is the proper sautéing of onions and garlic. This builds the base of flavor for your chili. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a pot on medium heat with your oil. Add onions and let them cook until soft and translucent—around 3-4 minutes.
- Then, add garlic for just 30 seconds; stirring constantly prevents it from burning and becoming bitter.
After browning the meat, don’t forget to stir in your spices! This enhances their aroma. Finally, letting the chili simmer is crucial; it lets all those ingredients meld together beautifully!
Quick Easy Chili Recipe on Stove Top
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, tortilla chips
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy dinner option. In total, you’ll spend about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This will help cook your ingredients without sticking.
2. Sauté Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion turns translucent. This brings out the sweetness in the onion and adds great flavor!
3. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You want it fragrant but not browned.
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked—this should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it away.
5. Stir in the Spices:
Now, add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook for approximately 1 minute. This allows the spices to release their delicious aroma.
6. Add the Tomatoes & Beans:
Pour in the tomato sauce, optional diced tomatoes, and the kidney beans. Stir everything to combine well.
7. Simmer the Chili:
Add 1 cup of beef broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chili thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
8. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, give your chili a taste. If you feel it needs more salt or spice, this is the time to adjust!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot in bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or crispy tortilla chips. Enjoy your comforting bowl of chili!
Happy cooking! 🌶️
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Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for ground beef if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just cook them in the same way as the beef until fully browned.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by omitting the meat and using an extra can of beans (like black beans or pinto beans) instead. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to the freezer.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! To adjust the spiciness, you can reduce the amount of chili powder and omit any diced jalapeños. If you prefer it spicier, consider adding cayenne pepper or fresh chopped chilies! Just start with a little and increase to your desired heat level.