Quick and Easy Chili Recipe on the Stove Top

Chili is the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and flavorful. With this Quick and Easy Chili Recipe, you can have a delicious meal on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients and pantry staples, this stovetop chili delivers rich, bold flavors without the long cook time. Follow along for step-by-step instructions, ingredient substitutions, and tips to make the best chili ever!

this Recipe

What is Chili?

Chili is a savory, spiced dish traditionally made with ground meat, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of flavorful seasonings. While chili can be slow-cooked for hours to develop deep flavors, this quick stovetop version gives you the same satisfying taste in a fraction of the time.

Ingredients List for Quick and Easy Chili

Here’s what you need to get started:

For the Chili:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for leaner meats like turkey)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 (8-ounce) can of tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)

For the Seasoning:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds smokiness)
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Substitutions and Variations

Chili is highly customizable. Here are a few simple substitutions and variations you can make:

• Meat options: Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can easily replace ground beef. You can even mix different types of meats.
• Beans: If you don’t like kidney or black beans, you can use pinto beans, white beans, or omit them for a bean-free chili.
• Vegetarian option: For a meatless version, skip the meat and add more beans or vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Spice level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne or red pepper flakes, or by tossing in fresh jalapeños for an extra kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Quick and Easy Chili on the Stove Top

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. If using lean meat like ground turkey, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan to prevent sticking. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the spices with the meat and onions for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, drained beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Chili

Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the flavors to meld together. If you want a thicker chili, simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid further.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your taste.

Step 7: Serve

Once your chili is done, ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the browning step: Make sure to brown the meat properly for added flavor.
• Over-seasoning early: Start with smaller amounts of spice and adjust toward the end, as flavors develop during cooking.
• Not simmering long enough: Even though this is a quick recipe, simmering the chili for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors to blend nicely.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Quick and Easy Chili

Chili is best served warm and loaded with your favorite toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your chili:

• Classic toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onions, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños.
• Crunchy additions: Serve with tortilla chips, cornbread, or saltine crackers.
• On the side: A fresh green salad, warm tortillas, or a slice of crusty bread pair perfectly with chili.

Presentation Ideas for Quick and Easy Chili

• Family-style: Serve the chili in a big pot with toppings spread out in small bowls so everyone can customize their own bowl.
• Individual bowls: Ladle the chili into bowls and arrange toppings neatly for a colorful, appetizing presentation.

Quick and Easy Chili Recipe Tips

• Thicker chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of broth or simmer the chili uncovered for a longer period.
• Make it ahead: Chili often tastes better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead and reheat it. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Spice it up: Add fresh jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper for more heat if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat, onions, and garlic on the stovetop, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean option and works just as well in this recipe.

3. How do I store leftover chili?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze chili for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

4. Can I make this chili without beans?
Yes, if you're not a fan of beans or want a lower-carb option, simply omit them from the recipe. You can add more meat or veggies like bell peppers to bulk it up.

5. How can I thicken my chili if it’s too runny?
If your chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also mash some of the beans or stir in a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina to thicken it.

Conclusion

This Quick and Easy Chili Recipe on the Stove Top is a fast, flavorful meal perfect for any night of the week. With just a few simple ingredients and under an hour of cooking time, you can enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of chili. Customize it with your favorite toppings and variations, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite!

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