This stovetop chili is a warm, hearty dish full of flavor! With tender beans, rich tomatoes, and a kick of spices, it’s the perfect meal for chilly evenings.
I love how easy it is to make—just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. Plus, it’s great for leftovers! Who doesn’t love a tasty meal that gets better with time? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken works well too for a lighter option. You could even use plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian chili.
Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness. If you’re short on onions, shallots or even leeks can be great substitutes, though they’ll add a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used—1/8 teaspoon for each clove needed, but fresh is always better!
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes bring acidity and moisture. If fresh tomatoes are available, chop them up and substitute one can with about 2 cups of fresh. You can adjust the amount based on taste!
Chili Powder: This is key for flavor. If you like it spicier, consider adding some cayenne pepper or using a hot chili powder blend. You could also swap it for taco seasoning for a twist!
What’s the Best Way to Get a Rich Flavor?
Creating a rich flavor in chili is all about layering ingredients and letting them cook together. Start by sautéing the onions until they’re soft. Then, add the garlic just until it’s fragrant. Brown the meat next—it helps build flavor through the Maillard reaction.
- Cook the beef or turkey until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add carrots early enough for them to soften, about 2 minutes.
- Mix in seasonings before liquid so they bloom nicely in the oil.
After combining everything, let it simmer. This helps all flavors meld together beautifully—don’t rush this step!
Stovetop Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for heat
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions or jalapeños
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty stovetop chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat Up Your Pot:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it’s hot, you’re ready to add the onions!
2. Sauté The Veggies:
Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until it’s nice and softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it smells amazing!
3. Brown The Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) into the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Mix In The Carrots:
Now stir in the chopped carrots and cook for 2 more minutes—this adds a lovely sweetness!
5. Combine The Rest:
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Spice It Up:
Next, add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’d like some heat. Stir well again to blend those flavorful spices into the mix.
7. Let It Simmer:
Bring the chili to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook gently for about 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom!
8. Taste & Adjust:
After 30 minutes, taste the chili and adjust the seasonings if needed. A pinch more salt or spice can really make it pop!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Once you’re happy with the flavor, serve the chili hot, ladled into bowls. Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions or jalapeños. Don’t forget the tortilla chips on the side for extra crunch!
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful stovetop chili—it’s perfect for cozy nights or anytime you need a warm bowl of goodness! 🌶️🍲
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef or Turkey?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef or turkey, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Make sure it’s fully thawed to ensure even cooking!
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To adapt this chili for a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground meat with a combination of beans such as black beans and kidney beans. You can also add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make it up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
How Should I Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
