If you’ve ever longed for a comforting bowl of chili that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then you are absolutely going to adore The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili Recipe. This recipe combines bold spices, hearty beans, and fresh veggies, all simmered together to create a rich, flavorful dish that feels both nourishing and indulge-worthy. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or cooking for friends, this chili is guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table with its perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and zest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili Recipe lies in its simplicity – each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture without overwhelming your pantry or your taste buds. These staples come together effortlessly to create a vibrant, crowd-pleasing chili that tastes like you’ve been simmering it all day.
- Olive oil: Helps to sauté the aromatics and adds a subtle richness at the start.
- Large onion, diced: Provides a sweet base that brings depth to the chili’s flavor.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Adds an irresistible, savory aroma that wakes up every other ingredient.
- Red and green bell peppers, diced: Bring color, crunch, and a mild sweetness that balances the spices.
- Medium carrot, diced: Offers a touch of natural sweetness and extra texture.
- Ground beef or plant-based ground meat: Creates that hearty, meaty backbone or a satisfying vegetarian option.
- Chili powder: The star spice that infuses the dish with its iconic warmth and complexity.
- Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a hint of smokiness to complement the chili powder.
- Smoked paprika: Deepens the flavor with subtle smoke notes that make the chili unforgettable.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Brings controlled heat for those looking to spice things up.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that sharpen and balance the taste.
- Crushed tomatoes: Provide a lush, saucy base full of tang and richness.
- Diced tomatoes: Offer bursts of freshness and texture to each bite.
- Kidney beans and black beans, drained and rinsed: Give the chili substance, nutrition, and that perfect creamy bite.
- Vegetable or beef broth: Adds moisture and deepens the savory flavor.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the chili beautifully.
- Sugar (optional): A pinch to brighten and balance acidity from the tomatoes.
- Frozen corn: Adds pops of sweetness and color late in cooking.
- Lime juice: Provides a fresh, zesty finish that lifts the entire pot.
- Fresh cilantro and shredded cheese for garnish (optional): Enhance the final presentation and add layers of fresh, creamy notes.
How to Make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes until their wonderful fragrance fills your kitchen. This step unlocks the flavors that build the base of your chili, so don’t rush it.
Step 2: Cook the Veggies
Next, toss in the diced red and green bell peppers along with the carrot. Stir them around and sauté for about 5 minutes, just until they soften. These veggies add crunch, color, and a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances out the spices you’ll add next.
Step 3: Brown the Meat or Plant-Based Protein
Time to add your ground beef or plant-based ground meat. Break it apart using your spoon or spatula and cook until it’s thoroughly browned. This step develops a rich, savory flavor that makes your chili satisfyingly hearty and comforting.
Step 4: Season the Chili
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if you like some heat, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well, letting the spices coat the meat and veggies to start building that signature chili flavor.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, broth, and tomato paste. Stir in a teaspoon of sugar if you want to mellow the acidity. This mixture starts to come together as the heart of your chili, bringing a perfect combination of tomato tang and hearty beans.
Step 6: Simmer to Perfection
Raise the heat just until your chili reaches a gentle simmer, then reduce to low and cover. Let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to meld and develop that deep, savory richness that makes this The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili Recipe.
Step 7: Add the Final Touches
Stir in frozen corn and let the chili cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes. The sweetness of the corn adds a lovely contrast to the spices and the hearty beans. Once the corn is tender, remove the pot from heat and squeeze in the fresh lime juice for a bright, tangy finish.
Step 8: Ready to Serve
Your chili is now ready to warm every soul lucky enough to taste it. Ladle generous portions into bowls and prepare for the best comforting meal you’ve made at home in a long time.
How to Serve The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your chili really brings it to life and adds those finishing touches that make each bite memorable. Fresh cilantro adds a bright herbal note that cuts through the richness, while shredded cheese lends creamy, melty goodness. Sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt can also add a cooling contrast to the spices.
Side Dishes
The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili Recipe pairs beautifully with an array of sides. Warm cornbread or crusty bread makes an ideal vehicle for scooping up every last bit. A side of fluffy rice turns it into an even heartier meal, and simple mixed green salads or slices of avocado help balance the warmth with fresh, crisp elements.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Serve the chili over baked sweet potatoes or use it as a filling for tacos or stuffed peppers. You could even layer it in a casserole with cheese and tortilla chips for a delightful chili bake. Presenting it in small cups as an appetizer with toothpicks for toppings is a fun way to serve a crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili tastes even better the next day, so store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to deepen, making for a satisfying second meal.
Freezing
If you want to keep your chili on hand for a busy day, freezing is a fantastic option. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor and texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your chili again, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave single servings, just make sure to stir halfway through to warm evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems thick to your liking.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and creates a lighter version of the chili. Just brown the meat as you would with beef, and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Is this chili recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, simply substitute the ground beef with your favorite plant-based ground meat or extra beans to keep it hearty. You can use vegetable broth instead of beef broth as well to keep it completely vegetarian.
Can I make this chili spicier?
Definitely! Increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauté step. You can also sprinkle hot sauce over servings to kick up the heat according to your taste.
What can I use if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?
No worries if you don’t have crushed tomatoes; you can pulse diced tomatoes in a blender or food processor until they reach a saucy consistency. Alternatively, use all diced tomatoes but cook a bit longer to thicken the chili.
How long does it take to make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili Recipe?
This chili comes together in about 55 minutes total — 15 minutes for prep and 40 minutes of cooking. It’s straightforward and well worth that short time for such a satisfying meal!
Final Thoughts
Once you make The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s become a personal favorite for cozy dinners and casual gatherings alike. It’s approachable, packed full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable, making it a kitchen staple you’ll turn to again and again. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort and deliciousness!
Print
The Best Homemade Stovetop Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and flavorful homemade stovetop chili is perfect for a comforting meal. Loaded with ground beef or plant-based meat, beans, veggies, and a blend of classic chili spices, it simmers to a rich, savory stew that’s great for any occasion.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 cup frozen corn
Meat and Protein
- 1 pound ground beef or plant-based ground meat
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable or beef broth
Seasonings and Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro and shredded cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add vegetables: Add diced red and green bell peppers, along with the carrot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Brown the meat: Stir in the ground beef or plant-based ground meat. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Season the mixture: Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat all ingredients.
- Add liquids and beans: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, broth, tomato paste, and sugar. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld.
- Finish with corn: Add frozen corn and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Add lime juice: Remove the pot from heat, squeeze in the lime juice, and stir to brighten the flavors.
- Serve: Serve chili hot garnished with optional fresh cilantro and shredded cheese or sour cream, if desired.
Notes
- Use plant-based ground meat to make this chili vegetarian.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit if you want it mild.
- Leftover chili stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freezes for up to 3 months.
- For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce liquid.
- Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
