Ultimate Stovetop Ground Beef Chili Recipe – Easy and Hearty Dinner

Nothing says comfort food like a simmering pot of Stovetop Ground Beef Chili. This easy, no-fuss recipe is bold, flavorful, and ready in under an hour—making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights, cool-weather dinners, or casual gatherings with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a chili recipe on stovetop that’s rich and hearty, or you’re after the best ground beef chili that doesn’t require hours of prep, this recipe checks every box.

Made with simple pantry staples like canned beans, diced tomatoes, spices, and ground beef, this chili is both budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable and works just as well for meal prep, game day spreads, or comforting lunches throughout the week.

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate chili recipe easy stovetop ground beef, your go-to is right here.

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Why This is the Best Simple Stovetop Ground Beef Chili for Busy Days

Let’s face it—some chili recipes are complicated, calling for obscure ingredients or long simmer times. Not this one. This easy beef chili recipe stovetop is designed for real life. It comes together in one pot, uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, and still delivers bold flavor in every spoonful.

What makes it the best simple chili recipe?

• Fast and easy – Ready in under an hour
• One-pot meal – Less cleanup, more time to relax
• Big flavor – Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika bring warmth
• Highly adaptable – Make it spicier, thicker, or veggie-packed if you like
• Freezes well – Great for meal prep or leftovers

Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just want something filling after work, this stovetop chili fits the bill beautifully.

Who Will Love This Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Chili on the Stovetop

This hearty and flavorful chili is for:

• Busy home cooks who want dinner ready fast
• Families looking for kid-friendly, nutritious meals
• Chili lovers who appreciate traditional flavors with minimal effort
• Meal preppers who want a make-ahead option that stores and reheats well
• Anyone craving cozy, classic comfort food

This chili is also perfect for casual parties, potlucks, or football Sundays—just add a few toppings and serve with garlic butter rolls or white bean summer salad for a complete feast.

Ingredients for Stovetop Ground Beef Chili (with Quantities)

Here’s everything you need to make this yummy chili recipe at home:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 is ideal)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup water or broth (for consistency)
• Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
• Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar to balance acidity

These classic chili ingredients blend together beautifully to create a thick, rich, and hearty stovetop chili that feels like it’s been simmering for hours.

How to Make Stovetop Ground Beef Chili: Step-by-Step Instructions

You’ll love how simple this is to make. Just follow these steps:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
3. Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
4. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another minute to bloom the spices.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, and water or broth. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and adjust seasonings. If it’s too acidic, add a pinch of sugar. If you like heat, add cayenne.
8. Once thickened and aromatic, remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

And that’s it—your stovetop ground beef chili is ready to enjoy!

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Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for Cooking Chili on the Stove

This is a low-maintenance recipe with minimal tools required:

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Can opener
• Measuring spoons

This is the kind of recipe you’ll return to over and over, especially because cleanup is a breeze.

Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Chili Ever

• Brown the meat properly – This step builds flavor. Don’t rush it!
• Use fresh spices – They lose potency over time, so refresh your pantry seasonings regularly.
• Simmer uncovered – This thickens the chili naturally without needing flour or cornstarch.
• Don’t skip the beans – They add heartiness and fiber, making this chili both filling and nutritious.
• Balance the flavors – Taste as you go. A small splash of vinegar or sugar can adjust the flavor perfectly.

Want to elevate your chili even further? Let it sit overnight. The flavor deepens beautifully the next day!

Variations to Customize Your Ground Beef Chili

This stovetop chili recipe is flexible, so feel free to switch things up:

• Spicier version: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra cayenne
• Vegetable-packed: Add diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini
• Beanless chili: Skip the beans and reduce liquid slightly for Texas-style
• Turkey chili: Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner version
• Sweet potato chili: Add diced sweet potatoes for extra fiber and flavor
• Chili mac: Stir in cooked elbow macaroni for a kid-approved twist

Chili is meant to be personal—adapt it to your preferences and pantry!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chili on the Stove

Even a simple recipe has room for improvement. Here’s what to avoid:

• Boiling instead of simmering – This can make the meat tough and over-reduce the sauce.
• Not draining beans – Rinsing removes excess salt and helps prevent soggy chili.
• Skipping the spice bloom – Cooking spices with aromatics unlocks their full flavor.
• Not seasoning enough – Always taste and adjust before serving.
• Rushing the cook time – Letting chili simmer ensures everything melds together.

Avoiding these mistakes ensures rich, bold, delicious chili every time.

Serving Suggestions and Chili Topping Ideas

This easy stovetop beef chili is a complete meal on its own, but toppings make it even more irresistible:

• Shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• Diced green onions or red onion
• Sliced jalapeños or pickled chilies
• Crushed tortilla chips or corn chips
• Fresh cilantro or parsley
• A squeeze of lime juice for brightness

Serve with cornbread, rice, or even over a baked potato for a hearty twist.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers Like a Pro

This chili stores and reheats like a dream:

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days
• Microwave: Reheat individual portions in 1-minute intervals, stirring between
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium-low heat with a splash of broth if needed

It actually tastes better the next day, making it ideal for weekly meal prep.

Can You Freeze Stovetop Ground Beef Chili?

Absolutely! This chili freezes beautifully.

• Let it cool completely
• Store in zip-top freezer bags or freezer-safe containers
• Label with date and freeze for up to 3 months
• To thaw, refrigerate overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop

Perfect for busy nights when you want a homemade meal without the effort.

Great Pairings: What to Serve With Beef Chili

Round out your chili night with these delicious ideas:

• Honey balsamic potato salad for a tangy, cool side
• Garlic cheddar chicken for added protein
• Pumpkin muffins for a sweet autumn touch
• Cucumber Caesar salad to refresh the palate
• A side of steamed rice, buttered toast, or even cornbread waffles

You can even create a chili bar with toppings and sides for your next gathering.

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FAQ: Chili Recipe Easy Stovetop Ground Beef Edition

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, just brown the beef and aromatics first, then transfer to a slow cooker and simmer on low for 6–8 hours.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Replace beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative and adjust the spices to taste.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just make sure your pot is large enough, and you may need to simmer a bit longer.

What’s the best type of beef for chili?
80/20 ground beef works best for flavor and texture. You can also use leaner beef if you prefer.

Can I leave out the beans?
Yes—just reduce the liquid slightly to avoid a watery chili.

Final Thoughts + Share and Subscribe for More Yummy Chili Recipes

This Stovetop Ground Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and packed with bold flavor. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute dinner idea, prepping meals for the week, or feeding a hungry crowd, this easy beef chili recipe stovetop delivers every time.

Give it a try tonight, and let the rich, savory aroma fill your kitchen. Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and subscribe to the blog for more delicious comfort food recipes like this one.

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