There’s something magical about a big pot of easy stovetop chili simmering away on the stove, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of spices and warmth. Each spoonful is like a cozy hug, rich with flavor and brimming with hearty ingredients that make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Whether it’s a chilly evening, game day, or just one of those days when you need comfort food, this chili is your go-to recipe.
I remember the first time I made this easy stovetop chili recipe. My friends had gathered for a weekend movie marathon, and I wanted to impress them without spending the entire day in the kitchen. Little did I know that this would become my secret weapon for future gatherings—a dish that not only satisfied our appetites but also sparked laughter and bonding over shared bowls of goodness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy stovetop chili recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with bold flavors from spices and fresh ingredients, it will tantalize your taste buds.
- The vibrant colors of peppers and beans create an inviting bowl that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
- You can easily customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preference or pantry staples.
Ingredients for easy stovetop chili recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option—about 1 pound should do the trick.
- Onion: One medium onion adds depth to the flavor; dice it up nicely.
- Garlic: A few cloves of minced garlic bring that aromatic punch we all love.
- Bell Peppers: Grab a mix of colors—red, yellow, or green—for visual appeal and sweetness.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Two cans will give you that saucy base; opt for fire-roasted for extra flavor.
- Canned Kidney Beans: Rinse and drain about one can for protein and texture—feel free to substitute with black beans!
- Chili Powder: Two tablespoons of this spice blend will add warmth; adjust according to your heat preference.
- Cumin: Just a teaspoon enhances the earthy flavors beautifully.
- Salt & Pepper: Season these at your discretion to taste—don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make easy stovetop chili recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and toss in your diced onion. Sauté until translucent—about five minutes—then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Your kitchen will begin smelling like heaven!
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally until browned all over; don’t forget to drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Veggies
Now it’s time for those colorful bell peppers! Toss them into the pot along with some salt and pepper. Cook until they’re tender—around five minutes should suffice.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the chili powder and cumin. Mix everything well so that those spices coat every delicious morsel before adding in canned tomatoes and kidney beans.
Step 5: Simmer Away
Pour in two cans of diced tomatoes (juice included) and stir well. Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about twenty minutes so all those fabulous flavors meld together.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Transfer steaming bowls of chili onto your table—perhaps top each serving with shredded cheese or sour cream if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy with cornbread or tortilla chips for that authentic experience!
This easy stovetop chili recipe is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating memories around steaming bowls filled with rich flavors that warm both heart and soul!
You Must Know
- This easy stovetop chili recipe is not just simple; it’s a flavor explosion!
- With customizable ingredients and a quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Serve it hot, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To whip up this easy stovetop chili recipe efficiently, start by browning your ground meat in a large pot. While that’s sizzling away, chop your veggies. Once the meat is ready, toss in the veggies and spices to create a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone flocking to the kitchen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this easy stovetop chili recipe to suit your taste buds. Swap out ground beef for turkey or veggie crumbles, add beans for extra protein, or spice it up with jalapeños. The possibilities are endless—get creative!
Storing & Reheating
To store your delicious chili, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to five days or freeze well for three months. When reheating, warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, let your chili simmer for at least 30 minutes; this allows all those wonderful spices to meld together beautifully.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; a pinch of salt can elevate the dish immensely.
- Don’t skip the toppings; fresh cilantro or cheese adds a delightful finish that takes your chili to new heights.
Cooking this easy stovetop chili recipe always reminds me of cozy family gatherings where laughter filled the air and bowls were never empty. There’s something magical about sharing good food and even better company!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for an easy stovetop chili recipe?
To make an easy stovetop chili recipe, you will need ground beef or turkey, canned beans (like kidney and black beans), diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and chili powder. Optional ingredients include bell peppers, corn, and jalapeños for added flavor. Use vegetable broth or water as a base. This combination creates a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.
How long does it take to cook an easy stovetop chili recipe?
An easy stovetop chili recipe typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes to prepare and cook. First, brown your meat and sauté the vegetables. Then, add the remaining ingredients and let the chili simmer. Allowing it to simmer for a longer time enhances the flavors, but it’s ready to eat in less than an hour.
Can I make this easy stovetop chili recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily adapt an easy stovetop chili recipe to be vegetarian by omitting meat and using plant-based protein sources like lentils or tofu. Replace the meat with additional beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian option that everyone will enjoy.
What can I serve with my easy stovetop chili recipe?
When serving an easy stovetop chili recipe, consider pairing it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal. You can also top the chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. These sides complement the rich taste of your chili and enhance the dining experience.
Conclusion for easy stovetop chili recipe:
In summary, this easy stovetop chili recipe offers a straightforward way to create a delicious meal using simple ingredients. With just one pot and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a hearty dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and gatherings. Feel free to customize your chili with different proteins or vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this comfort food classic that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite!
Easy Stovetop Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy stovetop chili is a warm, hearty dish packed with robust flavors and ready in under an hour—perfect for cozy nights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), diced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart as it cooks, stirring occasionally until evenly browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Veggies: Stir in the diced bell peppers along with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle in the chili powder and cumin, mixing well to coat all ingredients before adding in the canned tomatoes (including juice) and kidney beans.
- Simmer Away: Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve hot in bowls, optionally topping with shredded cheese or sour cream. Pair with cornbread or tortilla chips for an authentic experience!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: - For a vegetarian option, replace ground beef with black beans or lentils. - Add jalapeños for extra heat if desired. - Simmering longer enhances flavor depth.



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