Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Chili Recipe for Hearty Weeknight Dinners
Introduction
Greetings, culinary enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my stovetop ground beef chili recipe that’s guaranteed to warm your hearts and satisfy your taste buds. This best easy stovetop ground beef chili recipe for beginners is perfect for those cozy nights when you crave a comforting bowl of homemade goodness. Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!
Table of Contents
Why is it Perfect for You?
This chili recipe is a game-changer for several reasons:
◾ Quick and easy to prepare
◾ Packed with protein and fiber
◾ Customizable to suit your taste preferences
◾ Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly
◾ Ideal for feeding a crowd or family dinners
Ingredients List
◾ 2 lbs lean ground beef
◾ 1 large onion, diced
◾ 4 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
◾ 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
◾ 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
◾ 2 cups beef broth
◾ 2 tablespoons tomato paste
◾ 2 tablespoons chili powder
◾ 1 tablespoon ground cumin
◾ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
◾ 1 teaspoon dried oregano
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the pot with the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma will be absolutely divine!
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Paste
Now, it’s time to build those layers of flavor. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano to the pot. Stir well to coat the meat and onions. Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to caramelize slightly.
Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and both types of beans. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits are flavor gold!
Step 5: Simmer and Season
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Nutritional Information
This hearty chili is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s high in protein from the beef and beans, and packed with fiber and vitamins from the vegetables and spices.
Calories per Person
Approximately 350-400 calories per serving (without toppings).
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this recipe even healthier, consider these alternatives:
◾ Use ground turkey instead of beef
◾ Add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini
◾ Use low-sodium broth and canned goods
◾ Opt for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream as a topping
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, topped with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad on the side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
◾ Overcooking the beans, making them mushy
◾ Not draining excess fat from the beef
◾ Skimping on spices – be generous!
◾ Rushing the simmering process – let those flavors develop
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This chili stores beautifully! Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Is this chili spicy?
This recipe has a mild to medium heat level. Adjust the chili powder to your preference, or add some diced jalapeños for extra kick.
Can I use different types of beans?
Of course! Feel free to use pinto beans, navy beans, or any other variety you prefer. The beauty of chili is its versatility.
Conclusion
There you have it, my friends – a delicious, hearty, and easy stovetop ground beef chili that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a game day gathering, this chili will not disappoint. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and making the recipe your own. So don’t be afraid to add your personal touch!
Contact Us
Contact us at [email protected] and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
