Weeknight Winner Simple Stovetop Ground Beef Chili
Weeknight Winner Simple Stovetop Ground Beef Chi
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction
Ever get that craving for something proper comforting? Honestly, that's how this easy chili recipe stovetop simple came about. I wanted something that tasted like a hug, but didn’t take all day.
Think less "MasterChef," more "bung it all in a pot and hope for the best," but with a guaranteed delicious result! The key flavour is a rich, slightly smoky warmth – pure comfort food gold.
What's the story?
This easy ground beef chili isn’t some ancient family heirloom. It’s my take on a classic, tweaked over many a weeknight chili craving.
It's inspired by that Tex-Mex vibe, but simplified for busy folks. It is a beginner chili recipe , perfect for people on budget.
It is budget-friendly chili , and serves about six hungry souls.
This simple chili recipe with beans brings all the good things together. It’s packed with protein from the beef, fibre from the beans, and a whole load of flavour from the spices.
Perfect for a casual dinner party or a Sunday night in front of the telly, this comfort food chili is a guaranteed winner.
Why this chili rocks
This recipe is dead easy to make. It is literally a 30-minute chili . It’s a nutritional powerhouse too! All those beans and tomatoes pack a healthy punch of fibre and vitamins.
Plus, it's a great way to use up that lonely can of beans lurking in the back of your cupboard.
A total quick chili recipe ! This one-pot chili recipe is not only convenient, it is delicious!.
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks for this easy chili recipe stovetop simple . Honestly, half the battle is having your ingredients sorted.
Trust me, fumbling around mid-cook is a right pain.
Ingredients & Equipment
So, what do you actually need for this weeknight chili ? Let's break it down. This is going to be your next favorite comfort food chili
Main Ingredients
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) . Any decent olive oil will do. Don't go splashing the fancy stuff!
- Yellow Onion: 1 large (about 1 ½ cups, or 200g), chopped. A good onion should be firm and not sprouted.
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (450g) . I like an 80/20 blend. It gives you flavour without being swimming in grease. Go for good quality if you can.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh garlic, you know? It should smell pungent.
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 oz) can (800g) . Look for decent quality tomatoes. No need to go overboard.
- Kidney Beans: 1 (15 oz) can (425g) , rinsed and drained.
- Pinto Beans: 1 (15 oz) can (425g) , rinsed and drained (or use black beans).
- Beef Broth: 1 cup (240ml) (or water). Low sodium broth is best, so you can control the salt.
Seasoning Notes
Right, spices. Here's where the magic happens for a quick chili recipe .
- Chili Powder: 1 tbsp (6g) . This is your base. Feel free to tweak it later.
- Ground Cumin: 1 tsp (3g) . Cumin adds that earthy warmth.
- Smoked Paprika: ½ tsp (1.5g) . This is optional but really gives it a depth. Seriously recommend it!
- Dried Oregano: ½ tsp (1.5g) .
- Salt: ½ tsp (3g) , or to taste.
- Black Pepper: ¼ tsp (0.75g) , or to taste.
Don’t be shy! Taste as you go. This will make a simple chili recipe with beans that your family will love.
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple, eh? This one-pot chili recipe doesn't need fancy kit.
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: You need something big enough to hold it all!
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: You know, for measuring.
- Can Opener: Essential! I’ve been caught out before.
Honestly, that's it. If you don't have a Dutch oven, a large pot will do just fine. Now, let's get cooking this easy ground beef chili .
This beginner chili recipe will be ready in just 30-minute chili . Perfect for a budget-friendly chili .
Alright, let's dive into making a cracking easy chili recipe stovetop simple ! It's proper comfort food. Think of it as the food equivalent of a warm hug on a cold, rainy day.
We're focusing on keeping it simple, flavourful, and quick.
Prep Steps – Getting Your Ducks in a Row
Honestly, a little prep goes a long way. It makes cooking so much easier. Sort of like having all your bus tickets ready before you get on the bus.
- Essential Mise en Place: Chop your one large yellow onion (about 1 ½ cups), mince those two cloves of garlic. Rinse and drain 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans and 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans . This makes the cooking process super smooth.
- Time-Saving Organization Tips: I like to measure out my spices beforehand: 1 tbsp chili powder , 1 tsp cumin , ½ tsp smoked paprika , ½ tsp oregano , ½ tsp salt , ¼ tsp pepper . Keep them close to hand.
- Safety Reminders: No brainer, but watch that hot oil. Don’t want any accidents, do we?
Step-by-Step Process – Let's Get Cooking
Here's where the magic happens. Don’t worry, it's not magic magic; it's just simple cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes . Chuck in the garlic for another minute.
- Brown the Beef: Add 1 lb ground beef . Brown it, drain any excess grease. No one wants a swimming pool of grease in their chili.
- Bloom the Spices: Stir in your spice mix. Cook for just 1 minute . Trust me, it makes a difference.
- Simmer the Chili: Add 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes , the beans, and 1 cup beef broth . Give it a good stir.
- Bring to a Simmer and Cook: Bring it to a simmer. Then reduce heat and cover. Cook for at least 30 minutes . The longer, the better, honestly.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed.
Pro Tips – Level Up Your Chili Game
Want to make this easy ground beef chili even better? Here’s a few tricks I've learned over the years. It can be considered a quick chili recipe if you have all the ingredient already prepared.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don't skip the simmering! It's key to that comfort food chili flavour. Also, don't be shy with the spices!
- Spice it up: Try adding a pinch of cayenne to the stovetop chili recipe , if you like a bit of heat or follow the recipe for a simple chili recipe with beans .
So, there you have it – a weeknight chili sorted! This budget-friendly chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you call it one-pot chili recipe or 30-minute chili , you will have a beginner chili recipe ready in no time at all.
Grab some crusty bread and enjoy.
Alright, let’s talk about those extra bits and bobs that make this easy chili recipe stovetop simple even better. We're talking about the finer details.
You know, the stuff that takes it from good to "Oh my gosh, that's amazing!".
Recipe Notes: Your Guide to Chili Nirvana
Let's dive into everything else you need to know about this comfort food chili . I reckon these will make it an even better experience!
Serving Suggestions: Pimp Your Plate!
Presentation is key, my friends! For plating, think rustic charm. A hearty bowl, a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheese.
Lovely! Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro add a pop of colour. Honestly, it's dead simple.
On the side, cornbread is a classic. Trust me. Tortilla chips are great for scooping. As for drinks? A cold beer – lager or IPA – hits the spot.
Or a glass of red if you're feeling fancy. A refreshing lime margarita? Oh my gosh, yes!
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Fridge-wise, this simple chili recipe with beans will keep for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Proper job.
Freezing is a shout too! Pop it in a freezer-safe container. It'll last for 2-3 months . When reheating, let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
Then, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Give it a good stir to ensure it is piping hot, you know?
Variations: Mix it Up, Mate!
Fancy a change? Easy peasy! For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for plant-based mince. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Bang on.
Want it spicy ? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. This quick chili recipe is adaptable. Seriously easy!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
Each serving of this stovetop chili recipe packs a punch. Roughly 350 calories , 28g protein , and 8g fiber .
It's a winner! The fiber keeps you full. The protein helps repair muscles.
This beginner chili recipe is also a great source of vitamins and minerals. Iron from the beef, antioxidants from the tomatoes.
It's not just tasty, it's good for you. This weeknight chili is a great choice.
So there you have it. The full lowdown on my easy ground beef chili . Get in the kitchen and get cooking! You'll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up a bowl of one-pot chili recipe perfection.
I'm sure that this 30-minute chili will become a staple in your home!. Enjoy!.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this easy chili recipe stovetop simple even faster on a weeknight?
Absolutely! To speed things up, buy pre-chopped onions and garlic. You can also use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed (though the texture will be slightly different). For a truly speedy version, consider using a pressure cooker or slow cooker for even faster results. It won't be quite the same, but it'll still hit the spot after a long day!
What's the best way to store leftover chili?
Leftover chili is practically a gift that keeps on giving! Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results or use the microwave on a low setting.
My chili is too thick! How do I thin it out?
No worries, that's an easy fix. Simply add a little more beef broth or water, a quarter cup at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You could also add a splash of tomato juice for extra flavour as well as thinning the consistency.
Can I make this easy chili recipe stovetop simple vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef with a plant-based alternative, or a mix of your favourite chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You might also want to add a can of lentils for extra protein and heartiness – a brilliant veggie option.
Is there anything I can add to this easy chili recipe stovetop simple to make it a bit more interesting?
Definitely! A spoonful of cocoa powder or a square of dark chocolate adds a surprising depth of flavour. A splash of balsamic vinegar can brighten it up. Some people like a little heat with a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. And don't forget the toppings - a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and some chopped green onions will take it to the next level. Experiment and find what you like best – after all, cooking is an art, not a science!
What are the nutritional benefits of this chili recipe?
This chili is packed with protein from the ground beef and beans, offering a satisfying and filling meal. The tomatoes provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, and the beans are a great source of fiber, promoting good digestive health. You can lower the fat content by opting for leaner ground beef or using ground turkey. Remember to check the sodium content of your broth and adjust seasoning accordingly, especially if you're watching your salt intake.
