The Ultimate Weeknight Ground Beef Chili

Weeknight Chili Recipe Stovetop Ground Beef Ready in an Hour
Weeknight Chili Recipe Stovetop Ground Beef Ready in an Hour
By Zelia Thorne

The Ultimate Weeknight Ground Beef Chili

Weeknight Chili Recipe Stovetop Ground Beef Ready in an Hour Recipe Card
Weeknight Chili Recipe Stovetop Ground Beef Ready in an Hour Recipe Card
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Preparation time:15 Mins
Cooking time:40 Mins
Servings:6-8 servings

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Nutrition Facts

Calories350-400
Fat20-25g
Fiber8-10g

Recipe Info

CategoryMain Course
CuisineSouthwestern

Recipe Introduction: Your New Go-To Chili

Ever have one of those days? You know, the kind where you just need cozy comfort food ? Well, I've got you covered.

This chili recipe stovetop ground beef is exactly what you need. It’s packed with flavor and so easy to throw together, even on a weeknight chili recipe .

Why This Chili Rocks

Let's be real: Chili is a classic for a reason. But this isn't just any chili. This recipe is for a ground beef chili recipe easy enough for anyone to make.

We are talking about a proper beef chili with beans that tastes like it simmered all day, even if it didn't!

A Bowlful of History

Chili, as we know it, has roots in the American Southwest, particularly Texas. The best ground beef chili recipes use simple ingredients to create a deeply satisfying meal.

It’s perfect for casual dinners or game nights with friends.

This stovetop chili recipe is a simple one-pot chili wonder. We're talking about a humble, flavorful dish that’s ready in under an hour.

Expect 6-8 servings, making it ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Benefits Beyond the Bowl

Beyond the fantastic flavor, this chili packs a nutritional punch. It's loaded with protein from the beef and fiber from the beans. A good quick chili recipe can offer serious health benefits.

Honestly, there's nothing better than a bowl of warm chili on a chilly evening. That's the beauty of a delicious, hearty chili recipe.

Plus, get creative with your chili toppings ideas ! Think shredded cheese, sour cream, or a dollop of guacamole. Now, about those ingredients.

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Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Ground Beef Chili

The Ultimate Weeknight Ground Beef Chili presentation

Alright, let's talk ingredients! This easy chili recipe is all about simple, quality stuff. No need for fancy pants ingredients. Think of this as your weeknight chili recipe superhero! I love using this chili recipe stovetop ground beef when I am super hungry!

Main Ingredients: The Heart of Our One-Pot Chili

  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). Just the regular stuff is fine.
  • Yellow Onion: 1 large , chopped (about 1 ½ cups or Approx. 200g). Go for a firm one, not all squishy.
  • Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (approx. 6g). Fresh is always best!
  • Ground Beef: 1.5 pounds (Approx. 680g). 80/20 is my go-to. It's got enough fat for flavour but isn't swimming in grease.
  • Bell Peppers: 1 green & 1 red , chopped (about 1 cup each or Approx. 150g each). Colourful bell peppers is the key!
  • Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce) can (Approx. 794g). The better the quality, the richer the chili.
  • Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 ounce) can (Approx. 425g). Adds body to the sauce.
  • Kidney Beans: 1 (15 ounce) can , rinsed and drained (Approx. 425g).
  • Black Beans: 1 (15 ounce) can , rinsed and drained (Approx. 425g). Adds texture and earthiness.
  • Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies: 1 (10 ounce) can (Approx. 283g). Rotel brand is classic, but use whatever you fancy.
  • Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). Freshly opened is best.
  • Cumin: 1 tablespoon (15 ml). A staple in any ground beef chili recipe easy .
  • Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon (5 ml). Adds a lovely smoky depth.
  • Dried Oregano: ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml). Just a hint is all you need.
  • Cayenne Pepper: ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml). Adjust to your heat preference!
  • Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon (15 ml). Balances the acidity.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon (5 ml). Taste as you go!
  • Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml). Freshly ground if you've got it.
  • Beef Broth: 1 cup (240 ml). Low sodium is always a good shout.

Seasoning Notes: The Flavor Powerhouse

Essential spice combinations? Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are the holy trinity. These are the core flavors in this beef chili with beans . Don’t skip on them!

For extra oomph, add a bay leaf while simmering. Remember to take it out before serving! If you don't have smoked paprika, a tiny dash of liquid smoke can work, but go easy.

Spice it up a notch with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Experiment.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

All you really need for this stovetop chili recipe is a large Dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot . A wooden spoon and measuring cups are essential.

If you don't have a Dutch oven, don't sweat it! A regular large pot will do the trick.

Honestly, you don't need any fancy gadgets. This quick chili recipe is all about cozy comfort food , not kitchen wizardry! You know? Less dishes is all the better when you are cooking a chili!

My first time making chili, I didn’t have a can opener! Rookie mistake.

Cooking Method: Nailing the Ultimate Weeknight Chili Recipe Stovetop Ground Beef

Alright, mate, let's talk chili. Not just any chili. We're diving deep into a quick chili recipe that's so easy, it's practically foolproof.

This is my easy chili recipe for those nights when you want something comforting, flavourful, and seriously satisfying, without spending hours in the kitchen.

Trust me, even if your cooking skills are more "burnt toast" than "Bake Off winner," you can nail this ground beef chili recipe easy .

This stovetop chili recipe is a game changer.

Prep Steps: Get Your Act Together (Mise en Place Style)

Listen up, buttercups. Before you even think about turning on the hob, get your ingredients sorted. Chop your onion, mince your garlic.

Rinse those beans! Honestly, having everything prepped makes life so much easier. It only takes 15 minutes. Think of it as your chill out time before the chili.

Safety first, though! Keep those knives sharp and your fingers out of the way. We're after cozy comfort food , not a trip to A&E.

Step-by-Step: From Frying Pan to Fabulous

This beef chili with beans is proper simple.

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until softened. Then, chuck in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing (don't let it burn).
  2. Crumble in 1.5 pounds of ground beef and cook until it's browned all over. Drain off any excess fat nobody wants greasy chili.
  3. Add the chopped green and red bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Stir in the 28 ounce can of crushed tomatoes , 15 ounce can of tomato sauce , 10 ounce can of diced tomatoes and green chilies , 2 tablespoons chili powder , 1 tablespoon cumin , 1 teaspoon smoked paprika , ½ teaspoon dried oregano , ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper , 1 tablespoon brown sugar , 1 teaspoon salt , and ½ teaspoon black pepper . Mix it all up properly.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it bubble away for at least 30 minutes , or up to an hour. Stir it occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavours will deepen and is best ground beef chili .
  6. Stir in the 15 ounce cans of kidney beans and black beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Simmering beans is important.
  7. Taste and season! Add beef broth if your one-pot chili is too thick. Serve piping hot with your favourite chili toppings ideas .

Pro Tips: Secrets to Chili Supremacy

Want to take your chili to the next level? Bloom your spices! Toast the chili powder, cumin, and paprika in the hot oil for a minute before adding the tomatoes.

This unlocks their flavour potential. Also, don't rush the simmer. The longer it cooks, the better. You can even make it a day ahead.

Store it in the fridge overnight, and the flavours will develop even more. Common mistakes to avoid? Not browning the beef properly or skimping on the spices.

Get stuck in, and you'll be fine. The right time leads to amazing results.

Recipe Notes for the Best Chili Recipe Stovetop Ground Beef

Okay, so you're about to dive into this chili recipe stovetop ground beef . That's awesome! Before you get started, let’s chat about a few things to help you customize it and make it your own.

Honestly, this easy chili recipe is super forgiving, so don't stress too much. Let's make some cozy comfort food !

Serving Suggestions: Chili Toppings Ideas and More

Plating this weeknight chili recipe is half the fun. I like to serve mine in a big, rustic bowl. A dollop of sour cream? Yes, please! A sprinkle of cheddar? Absolutely! I also love adding a bit of chopped green onion for a fresh bite.

Don't forget about sides! Cornbread is the ultimate chili partner. Or how about some tortilla chips for scooping up all that delicious beef chili with beans ? And if you're feeling fancy, a cold beer or a glass of red wine pairs perfectly.

Storage Tips: Chili for Days!

Got leftovers? You're in luck! This ground beef chili recipe easy tastes even better the next day. Just let it cool completely, then pop it in an airtight container in the fridge.

It’ll keep for about 3-4 days.

Wanna freeze it? Go for it! Freeze in individual portions for easy lunches. When reheating, thaw it out in the fridge overnight, then gently heat it on the stovetop.

You might need to add a splash of beef broth if it's thickened up too much. Important: Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) when reheating .

Variations: Making It Your Own

Want to mix things up? I get it! For a dietary adaptation, try using ground turkey instead of ground beef.

It's still a best ground beef chili just leaner. For a seasonal swap, add some roasted butternut squash in the fall it adds a lovely sweetness.

Nutrition Basics: Healthy Comfort Food

This stovetop chili recipe is packed with protein, thanks to the ground beef and beans. Plus, you're getting a good dose of fiber.

It is important to note, that a serving will vary, but in a general sense a single serving should contain about 350-400 calories, and 30-35 grams of protein.

Remember, the nutrition info is an estimate. It'll change depending on your ingredients. It is, with a few moderations, an easy chili recipe

So, there you have it. My notes on making this quick chili recipe the best ever. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with it! Trust me, you’ll be making this one-pot chili all the time.

You got this!. Honestly, this is a pretty easy chili recipe .

Best Ground Beef Chili Cozy Comfort Food Made Easy

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chili recipe stovetop ground beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this chili is even better the next day. The flavors have more time to meld together, resulting in a richer, more complex taste. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It's perfect for meal prepping!

My chili is too thick! How can I thin it out?

No worries, easily fixed! Stir in some extra beef broth, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You could also use water in a pinch, but beef broth will maintain the flavour profile. Think of it like adding milk to your tea just a splash at a time!

What's the best way to store leftover ground beef chili? Can I freeze it?

Leftover chili should be cooled completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option! Pack the chili into freezer safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion, and it will happily keep for 2-3 months.

Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How can I adjust the spice level in this chili recipe stovetop ground beef?

Spice is a personal thing, innit? To reduce the heat, start by decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper. You can also omit the diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel) or use a mild version.

If you want to kick it up a notch, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or even a chopped jalapeño pepper.

What are some good toppings for ground beef chili?

Toppings are where you can really customize your chili! Classic choices include shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, and creamy avocado slices. For a bit of crunch, add tortilla chips or oyster crackers.

And don't forget a side of cornbread for soaking up all those delicious juices it's the bee's knees!

Can I substitute any of the ingredients in this stovetop ground beef chili recipe?

Absolutely! Flexibility is key. If you don't have kidney beans, pinto beans or great northern beans are a fine substitute. For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef with plant based crumbles or extra beans and vegetables. Don't have smoked paprika?

A dash of liquid smoke (use sparingly!) can add a similar depth of flavour, or you can simply omit it. Cooking is all about making it your own!

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