Name: Quick Easy Chili Recipe on Stove Top Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, jalapeños

Looking for a fast, hearty, and flavorful meal that comes together in under an hour? This Quick and Easy Chili Recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or whenever you crave a warm bowl of comfort. Made with ground beef, beans, and a simple mix of pantry ingredients, this chili is delicious, filling, and customizable. Best of all, it's made entirely on the stovetop in just about 30 minutes! Read on for step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and variations to make this classic chili your own.

What is Chili?

Chili is a flavorful stew typically made with ground meat (like beef or turkey), beans, tomatoes, and a blend of chili powder and spices. It's a classic comfort food that can be made in countless variations, from mild to spicy, and can be customized with your favorite toppings. This recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor, making it ideal for busy days when you need a quick, hearty meal.

Ingredients List for Quick and Easy Chili

Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple and tasty chili:

Ground Beef (80% lean) – 1 pound, for a hearty, rich base.
Onion – 1 medium, diced for flavor and texture.
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced for added depth.
Chili Powder – 2 tablespoons, the key to that classic chili flavor.
Cumin – 1 teaspoon, for a warm, earthy flavor.
Paprika – 1 teaspoon, for a hint of smokiness.
Cayenne Pepper – ¼ teaspoon, optional for added heat.
Salt and Pepper – To taste.
Diced Tomatoes (canned) – 1 can (14.5 oz), to form the base of the sauce.
Tomato Sauce – 1 can (8 oz), for extra thickness and richness.
Kidney Beans (or black beans or pinto beans) – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed.
Beef Broth (or water) – 1 cup, to thin out the chili as it simmers.

Optional Toppings:

Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Chopped green onions
Sliced jalapeños
Fresh cilantro
Tortilla chips

Substitutions and Variations

This chili recipe is easily adaptable, so feel free to change up the ingredients based on your preferences:

Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
Beans or No Beans: Some people prefer chili without beans—simply omit them or substitute with additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Spicy or Mild: Adjust the amount of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or add hot sauce to control the spice level. For a milder version, use less chili powder and omit the cayenne.
Vegetarian Chili: Omit the meat and double the beans or use plant-based ground meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers, corn, or even carrots for extra texture and nutrition.

These variations allow you to customize your chili according to your tastes or dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Quick and Easy Chili on the Stove Top in just 30 minutes:

Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Add the Spices:
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
Add the Tomatoes and Beans:
- Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and drained kidney beans. Stir everything together until well combined.
Simmer the Chili:
- Add the beef broth (or water) and stir to combine. Bring the chili to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices if needed. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer a bit longer, or add more broth if you like it soupier.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or your favorite toppings. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or cornbread on the side for a complete meal.

How to Cook Quick and Easy Chili: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick summary of the main steps:

Brown the ground beef in a large pot, then sauté the onions and garlic.
Add spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika for depth of flavor.
Stir in tomatoes and beans along with beef broth to form the base of the chili.
Simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings and sides!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Sautéing the Spices: Be sure to sauté the spices with the beef and onion to allow their flavors to bloom. This simple step makes a huge difference in the depth of flavor.
Skipping the Simmering: Don’t rush the simmering step—allowing the chili to simmer for at least 20 minutes (or longer if you have time) gives the flavors time to meld together.
Overcooking the Beef: Browning the beef too long or cooking it on high heat can make it tough. Cook it gently until just browned, then proceed with the recipe.
Too Much Liquid: Start with 1 cup of broth or water and adjust as needed. Adding too much liquid can make the chili too soupy, but you can always simmer it longer to thicken.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chili is a hearty dish that’s easy to serve in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for serving and presenting your chili:

How to Serve Quick and Easy Chili:

Family-Style: Serve the chili straight from the pot, allowing everyone to ladle out their own portions and top them with their favorite ingredients.
Individual Bowls: Ladle the chili into individual bowls and let each person customize with their own toppings.
Serve with Sides: Pair the chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or even a baked potato for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Quick and Easy Chili:

Toppings Bar: Create a toppings bar with bowls of shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, chopped cilantro, green onions, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their bowl.
Rustic Presentation: Serve the chili in cast iron bowls or enamel pots for a rustic, cozy presentation.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Quick and Easy Chili Recipe Tips

Make It Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing Tip: Chili freezes beautifully. Store leftovers in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Spice it Up: If you like a spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or even a diced jalapeño to the chili for extra heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or on High for 3-4 hours.

What kind of beans should I use?
Kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans work great in chili. You can use a single type or mix them together for more texture and variety.

How do I make this chili thicker?
If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer, or mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the sauce.

Can I make this chili without meat?
Yes! You can omit the meat and use extra beans, lentils, or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion:

This Quick and Easy Chili Recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting, satisfying meal in under an hour. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a hearty, flavorful chili that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Customize the recipe with your favorite beans, spices, and toppings to make it your own, and enjoy every warm, delicious bite!