BEST Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Chili Recipe

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your kitchen with a bowl of this mouthwatering Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Chili. Packed with tender ground beef, hearty beans, and a blend of aromatic spices, this dish is quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Emma Johnson

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-28T11:37:22.708Z

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. This Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Chili is a fantastic option, as it requires minimal prep and cooking time. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a hearty, flavorful dish ready to serve. With its robust ingredients, this chili not only fills tummies but also warms the heart, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.

Another advantage of this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it alone or accompany it with cornbread for a more traditional feel. Pour it over rice for a filling bowl that helps stretch the meal even further. Plus, it stores well in the fridge, making it a perfect candidate for leftovers that can be enjoyed the next day.

Flavorful and Nourishing Ingredients

At the heart of this chili is tender ground beef, which provides excellent protein to keep you satiated. Coupled with kidney beans, this dish delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Beans are not only nutritious, but they also enhance the chili's heartiness, making it a well-rounded meal that's perfect for the entire family.

The blend of spices in this recipe, including chili powder and cumin, creates an aromatic base that enhances the dish’s flavor profile. These spices work harmoniously to add depth and warmth to each bite, making it a delightful experience. Whether you like it mild or spicy, you can easily adjust the level of seasoning to cater to your taste.

Easy to Customize

One of the best aspects of this chili recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, to introduce additional flavors and nutrients. You can also swap kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans based on personal preference. This ability to customize means you can experiment each time you make it, resulting in a new and delightful flavor experience.

If you're looking to make this chili healthier, consider using lean ground beef or a ground turkey alternative. You can also incorporate more beans or vegetables to increase fiber content. With such diverse options, this dish can cater to a variety of dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

Chili Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup beef broth

Mix all ingredients in a large pot.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until onions are translucent. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Chili makes an excellent meal on its own, but pairing it with certain sides can elevate the dining experience. A wedge of warm cornbread alongside a bowl of chili is a classic combination that offers a contrast of textures, allowing for delightful bites. Alternatively, serve it over white or brown rice for a more filling option that soaks up the chili's rich flavors.

Consider garnishing your chili with toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also provide a nice visual appeal to your dish, making it more inviting. For a fun twist, set up a chili bar where everyone can customize their bowl with various toppings.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this chili—a common occurrence since it's so delicious—you'll be glad to know that it stores well. Simply place the chili in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. When ready to indulge again, just reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chili. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When stored properly, it can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove. This way, you can enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort on a busy day!

Nutritional Information

Chili is more than just a delicious meal—it's also packed with nutrients. This Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Chili provides a good source of protein thanks to the ground beef and kidney beans. Additionally, kidney beans are rich in fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help keep you feeling full longer.

Moreover, depending on the optional vegetables you choose to add, the vitamins and antioxidants in your chili can support overall well-being. For instance, adding bell peppers introduces Vitamin C, which is vital for the immune system. With each bowl, you're not just enjoying a hearty meal but also nourishing your body.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this chili in advance?

Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this chili spicy?

You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less chili powder.

BEST Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Chili Recipe

Warm up your kitchen with a bowl of this mouthwatering Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Chili. Packed with tender ground beef, hearty beans, and a blend of aromatic spices, this dish is quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Emma Johnson

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Chili Ingredients

  1. 1 pound ground beef
  2. 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  3. 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  4. 1 medium onion, chopped
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 2 tablespoons chili powder
  7. 1 teaspoon cumin
  8. Salt and pepper to taste
  9. 1 cup beef broth

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 02

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until onions are translucent. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 03

Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 04

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 15g