Description
This Best Ground Beef Stovetop Chili recipe combines savory browned beef with aromatic spices, fire-roasted tomatoes, and hearty beans for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfectly balanced with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, this chili simmers on the stovetop to develop rich, deep flavors. Easy to prepare in about 40 minutes, it’s ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted if possible)
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn it.
- Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess fat from the pot if needed to avoid grease.
- Season the meat: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Stir and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices and enhance their flavor.
- Add tomato base: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, then add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Mix well to combine.
- Add beans and simmer: Incorporate the drained kidney beans and black beans. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens to your desired consistency.
- Final seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the chili hearty but not greasy.
- Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add a smoky depth but regular diced tomatoes work fine.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce chili powder.
- Simmer longer for a thicker, more concentrated flavor.
- For a richer chili, consider adding a splash of beer or cocoa powder during cooking.
