Quick Easy Chili Recipe on Stove Top

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that warms both the belly and soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Quick Easy Chili Recipe on Stove Top is one of my all-time favorites. It’s not just about filling your stomach; it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together after a long day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this chili is sure to please.

What makes this recipe special? It’s the delightful balance of spiced ground beef and hearty beans simmered in a rich tomato base. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes! And here’s a little secret: it tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super quick preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly flavors: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this hearty dish packed with flavor.
• One-pot wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and each other’s company!
• Customizable toppings: You can dress your chili however you like—get creative with your favorite toppings!
• Perfect for leftovers: This chili keeps well, making it an ideal choice for easy lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delicious chili! You probably already have many of these staples in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons chili seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 27 oz can chili beans (do not drain or rinse)

For Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped onions
• Sour cream
• Jalapeños
• Cilantro
• Avocado

Variations

This recipe is super flexible, allowing you to mix things up based on what you have at home or what you’re in the mood for!

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add additional spices like cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños during cooking.
• Go meatless: Substitute beans with lentils or increase the amount of beans for a hearty vegetarian option.

How to Make Quick Easy Chili Recipe on Stove Top

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a Dutch oven or large deep-sided pot, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for about two minutes until it starts to soften. Then, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another two minutes. This step is key because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and creates a wonderful base for your chili.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Next, add in the ground beef. Cook over medium heat while breaking up any large pieces with your spatula. If there’s excess grease from cooking, feel free to drain some before moving on. Browning the meat adds depth of flavor that makes your chili truly delicious.

Step 3: Mix in Tomato Sauce and Spices

Add the tomato sauce, water, chili seasoning, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. The spices will blend beautifully during this time, creating an inviting aroma!

Step 4: Add Chili Beans

After simmering, add in the chili beans without draining them. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes. This step ensures that every bite is filled with robust flavor from those hearty beans.

Step 5: Serve Your Chili

Finally, serve warm with all your favorite toppings! Whether it’s shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, creamy avocado, or spicy jalapeños—load up your bowl as you like!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of quick easy chili ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Quick Easy Chili Recipe on Stove Top

Cooking can be a breeze, and with these pro tips, your chili will be even tastier!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic enhance the flavor profile of your chili, making it more aromatic and delicious.

• Adjust spice levels: If you’re not sure how spicy you want your chili, start with less crushed red pepper and add more to taste. This way, you can customize the heat level to suit your family’s palate.

• Let it simmer longer: Although the recipe is quick, allowing your chili to simmer a little longer can deepen the flavors. A slow simmer melds the spices and ingredients beautifully.

• Experiment with beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans like black beans or kidney beans along with the chili beans. This not only adds variety but also boosts the nutritional value.

• Make it ahead: Chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Consider making a larger batch for easy leftovers during the week!

How to Serve Quick Easy Chili Recipe on Stove Top

Serving your chili is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of cheese melts into the warm chili, adding a creamy texture that complements its richness.
• Chopped onions: Fresh chopped onions provide a nice crunch and brightness, balancing out the hearty flavors in each bite.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and helps tone down any spice, creating a perfect contrast.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread is perfect for scooping up chili and adds a delightful texture contrast.
• Rice: Serve your chili over fluffy rice to soak up all that flavorful sauce. It’s a filling side that pairs wonderfully!
• Tortilla chips: Crispy tortilla chips provide an extra crunch and are perfect for dipping right into your bowl of chili.
• Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed veggies like broccoli or carrots offer a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the chili.

Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting Quick Easy Chili Recipe on Stove Top! It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This quick easy chili recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making busy nights so much easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For best flavor, consume within the first few days.

Freezing

• Cool the chili completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through—about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make this quick easy chili recipe on stove top vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or even increase the quantity of beans and vegetables for a hearty dish.

How long does this quick easy chili recipe on stove top take to cook?

This delicious chili comes together quickly—under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner!

What toppings go well with my chili?

Some great toppings include shredded cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, and avocado. Feel free to mix and match according to your taste!

Can I adjust the spice level of this recipe?

Yes! You can customize the heat by adjusting the amount of crushed red pepper or opting for milder chili seasonings.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make this quick easy chili healthier, consider using lean ground beef or turkey and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this quick easy chili recipe on stove top! It’s not just about filling your belly—but creating warm memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or savoring leftovers, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking!