Quick and Easy Chili on the Stove Top Recipe

Craving a warm, hearty, and comforting meal but short on time? This Quick and Easy Chili Recipe is the perfect solution! Made right on the stovetop in just 30 minutes, this chili is packed with flavor, protein, and all the deliciousness you expect from a classic chili, but without the long cooking time. Whether you're preparing for a weeknight dinner, game day, or just want a simple meal to feed a crowd, this recipe will become your go-to favorite. Read on for all the details on how to make the perfect chili!

this Recipes

What is Chili?

Chili, short for chili con carne, is a flavorful stew made primarily with ground meat (usually beef), beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. While there are many regional variations, this recipe focuses on a quick stovetop version that packs all the flavor of slow-cooked chili in a fraction of the time. It’s hearty, comforting, and completely satisfying, especially when served with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients List for Quick and Easy Chili

Here's a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need to whip up this easy stovetop chili:

For the Chili:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

For Toppings (Optional):

• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream
• Sliced green onions
• Chopped cilantro
• Tortilla chips or cornbread

Substitutions and Variations

This chili recipe is very versatile and can easily be adapted to your personal tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some great substitutions and variations:

• Ground Meat: While ground beef is the classic choice, you can easily swap it for ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground pork for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add extra beans or plant-based crumbles.
• Beans: While this recipe uses kidney and black beans, you can use any beans you like, such as pinto beans, white beans, or even a combination of all three.
• Add Veggies: Want to sneak in more vegetables? Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the chili. They’ll add extra flavor, texture, and nutrition.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking. For a mild chili, use less chili powder and omit the green chilies. For extra heat, add jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
• Tomato Options: You can substitute canned diced tomatoes with fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor, or use crushed tomatoes for a thicker, saucier consistency.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to heat up. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef (or your meat of choice) to the pot with the onions and garlic. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small pieces. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and fully cooked. If there is excess fat, drain it from the pot before proceeding.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Once the meat is browned, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the spices with the meat for 1–2 minutes to help them bloom, which will enhance their flavor.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Add the canned diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato sauce, drained kidney beans, black beans, and green chilies (if using) to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and thicken the chili slightly. If you prefer a thinner chili, you can add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

After the chili has simmered, taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices if desired. If you like it spicier, you can stir in some hot sauce or cayenne pepper at this point.

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

1. Sauté aromatics: Cook onions and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Brown the meat: Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned.
3. Season: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano.
4. Add liquids and beans: Pour in tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, and chilies.
5. Simmer: Let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
6. Taste and adjust: Check seasoning and adjust to taste before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining Excess Fat: If your ground meat produces a lot of fat, make sure to drain it after browning to avoid a greasy chili. You want the flavor, not the fat!
• Overcooking the Beans: Canned beans are already cooked, so you just need to heat them through. Avoid cooking them for too long to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Undercooking the Spices: Always sauté your spices briefly after adding them to the pot. This step "blooms" the spices, releasing their flavors and making your chili more fragrant and delicious.
• Not Adjusting for Spice Level: If you're serving a crowd with varying spice tolerances, offer toppings like sour cream or cheese to cool things down and keep the chili itself at a mild spice level.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chili is a casual dish, but you can still make it look appetizing with a few presentation tips:

• Serve in bowls: Use large, deep bowls to serve your chili so there's plenty of room for toppings.
• Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with bowls of shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and tortilla chips. This lets everyone customize their chili to their liking.
• Cornbread or Crackers: Serve with warm cornbread, crackers, or tortilla chips on the side for some extra crunch and texture.

How to Serve Quick and Easy Chili

Serve your chili hot with your choice of toppings. Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and green onions are classic options that add both flavor and color to the dish. Pair it with some cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side of rice for a complete meal. Chili also pairs well with a light green salad if you're looking for something fresh and light on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Quick and Easy Chili

• Colorful Toppings: Garnish each bowl with a mix of colorful toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream for a bright, appealing presentation.
• Rustic Look: Serve your chili in rustic bowls or mini cast-iron pots for a homey, comforting look.
• Game Day Vibe: For a fun presentation, serve chili in bread bowls or with a side of nachos for dipping—perfect for casual gatherings or game day parties.

Quick and Easy Chili Recipe Tips

• Double the Recipe: Chili is great for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Let It Sit: Chili tastes even better after it sits for a while. If you have time, make it ahead and let the flavors meld together overnight in the fridge.
• Add Extra Toppings: Toppings can transform a simple bowl of chili into a loaded, flavorful meal. Don't skip the cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this chili in advance?
A: Yes! In fact, chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I freeze chili?
A: Absolutely! Chili freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of beans?
A: If you’re not a fan of beans or want a low-carb option, you can skip the beans altogether.

You could also add extra vegetables like chopped zucchini or bell peppers to bulk up the chili.

Q: Can I make this chili spicier?
A: Yes! Add extra chili powder, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for more heat. You can also stir in some cayenne pepper for an added kick.

Conclusion

This Quick and Easy Chili Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or anytime you're craving a comforting, hearty meal in a hurry. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a satisfying bowl of chili in under 30 minutes. Whether you customize it with your favorite toppings, make it vegetarian, or double the recipe for leftovers, this chili is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy!

Print