Ground Beef Stovetop Chili – Hearty, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

There’s just something about a big pot of chili simmering on the stove that makes a house feel like home. I still remember the first time I made this ground beef stovetop chili on a chilly autumn afternoon. The kitchen filled with the rich, savory scent of beef, tomatoes, and warm spices, and before I knew it, my family was hovering nearby, asking when it would be ready.

This isn’t a fussy recipe, and that’s what I love about it. No fancy equipment, no hours of prep—just good ingredients, a heavy-bottomed pot, and a little patience while the flavors meld together. In fact, this chili has become one of my go-to comfort foods alongside favorites like my Mexican beef stew recipe and a smoky smoked meatloaf for hearty weekends at home.

Whether you serve it with cornbread, over rice, or with a pile of tortilla chips, this stovetop chili is the kind of dish that satisfies everyone. It’s rich, meaty, and packed with flavor from spices, vegetables, and a slow simmer. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or freeze a batch for busy nights.

In the steps ahead, we’ll break down everything you need to know—ingredients, cooking tips, and make-ahead options—so you can bring this flavorful pot of chili to your own table. Get ready to grab a big spoon because once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stovetop Chili

There are a lot of chili recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few delicious reasons:

• Rich, hearty flavor – A slow stovetop simmer brings out deep, meaty notes balanced with warm spices and just the right touch of heat.
• Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients – Everything in this recipe is easy to find, and you probably have most of it on hand already.
• Perfect texture – Tender ground beef, soft beans, and a thick tomato base that’s neither too soupy nor too dry.
• Customizable heat level – Whether you like a mild bowl or something that packs a punch, you can easily adjust the spice.
• Feeds a crowd – This recipe makes generous servings, perfect for game days, family dinners, or meal prep.
• Freezer-friendly – Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy future dinner night.

If you enjoy cozy comfort food like my creamy white chicken chili or a beef rib steak slow cooker recipe, this stovetop chili is right up your alley.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 hearty portions
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or when you just want something warming and satisfying without spending the whole day in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef – I prefer 80/20 for the best flavor, but you can use leaner beef if you like.
• 1 large onion, diced – Yellow or white onions both work well.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced – Adds sweetness and texture; swap for red or yellow for a milder flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the best taste, but you can use 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch.
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes – Fire-roasted tomatoes add extra depth.
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Thickens the chili and ties the flavors together.
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed – You can mix with pinto or black beans for variety.
• 3 tablespoons chili powder – Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds warm, earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Optional, but it enhances the smokiness.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper – More or less, depending on heat preference.
• 2 cups beef broth – Use low-sodium if you want more control over the salt.
• Salt and black pepper – To taste.
• Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeño slices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the beef
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat if needed.

2. Sauté the vegetables
Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant.

3. Add the tomatoes and beans
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and drained beans. Mix everything together so the flavors begin to meld.

4. Season the chili
Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat all the ingredients in the spices.

5. Pour in the broth and simmer
Add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken and the flavors will deepen as it cooks—similar to how a Mexican beef stew recipe develops richness over time.

6. Taste and adjust
Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or spice as desired.

7. Serve hot
Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings—shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños. Pair with a warm slice of garlic butter bun for the perfect finish.

How to Serve

This Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level. Serve it with warm, buttery cornbread or a crusty baguette for dunking. For something extra satisfying, spoon it over cooked white rice or baked potatoes.

A fresh green salad on the side balances out the richness, while toppings like shredded cheddar, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips add layers of flavor and texture. On game days, I love making a chili bar where everyone can customize their own bowl.

For a cozy weekend menu, serve this chili alongside a smoky beef rib steak slow cooker recipe or keep it simple with easy delicious beef sausage recipes as appetizers.

Additional Tips

• Make it ahead – This chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for later – Cool completely, then portion into airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Adjust the spice – For a milder chili, reduce the chili powder and skip the cayenne. For extra heat, add chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce during simmering.
• Switch up the beans – Kidney beans are classic, but you can mix in pinto, black beans, or even chickpeas.
• Boost the depth – A splash of beer, strong coffee, or unsweetened cocoa powder can deepen the chili’s flavor.
• Keep it lean – Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, but keep the spices generous for full flavor.

If you love recipes that keep their flavor even after reheating, like my easy meatloaf recipe with onion soup mix, you’ll appreciate how well this chili holds up over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chili without beans?
Yes! If you prefer a beanless chili, simply omit them and add extra ground beef or chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to keep the texture hearty.

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker instead?
Absolutely. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is thinner than you’d like, let it simmer uncovered for an extra 10–15 minutes. You can also stir in a spoonful of tomato paste or masa harina for a thicker texture.

Can I make it spicier?
Yes. Add extra cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or even chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for smoky heat.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
You can, but the flavor may be milder. If using fresh, roast them first to bring out their sweetness before adding them to the chili.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Stovetop Chili is everything a cozy meal should be—rich, flavorful, and packed with hearty ingredients that keep you full and satisfied. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or expensive ingredients to make a dish that everyone will rave about.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a game-day crowd, or just meal-prepping for the week ahead, this chili delivers every time. With its deep, savory flavor and endless topping possibilities, it’s one of those recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.

So grab your biggest pot, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of simmering chili fill your kitchen. Once you’ve had your first spoonful, you’ll know exactly why it’s become a staple in my home—and why it might just become a favorite in yours too.