Print

Cozy Stovetop Chili: Easy 30-Minute Dinner Recipe

cozy stovetop chili - featured image

A quick, hearty, and flavorful stovetop chili that comes together in 30 minutes. This recipe focuses on proper browning techniques and simple ingredients for a deep, rich flavor without the need for slow cooking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (about 90% lean)
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the bell pepper. Have everything ready before turning on the heat.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains, then drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Push the meat to the side or remove it temporarily. Add the onions and bell peppers to the pot. Sauté until they soften and become translucent. Add the garlic in the last minute.
  4. Sprinkle the chili powder and cumin over the vegetables and meat. Stir constantly for about one minute to bloom the spices.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  6. Stir in the drained kidney beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes.
  7. Taste the chili and add salt and black pepper to your preference. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. If too thick, add a splash of water or broth. Serve hot.

Notes

Browning the meat properly is crucial for flavor; do not crowd the pan. Add beans near the end to prevent them from becoming mushy. If the chili tastes flat, add a splash of vinegar or lime juice at the end to brighten the flavors. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili, stovetop chili, quick dinner, 30 minute meal, ground beef recipe, comfort food, one pot meal, easy chili, weeknight dinner