This Quick & Easy Stovetop Chili is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s made with simple pantry staples like ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, making it a flavorful, hearty dish that’s also customizable to suit your tastes. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
2. Add ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
4. Add the drained beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving
• Total Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 690mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 26g
• Dietary Fiber: 7g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 21g

The Rich History of Chili

Chili’s origins are deeply tied to the American Southwest, particularly Texas, where the dish was embraced by both the settlers and indigenous peoples. While the precise history of chili is a subject of debate, it’s widely believed that chili, or “chili con carne,” was created as a way to make use of available ingredients like beef and peppers. Over the years, regional variations of chili have emerged, each with its own unique twist on the flavor profile and ingredients. Chili has evolved into a beloved dish that can be found on menus across the world, and there are countless ways to prepare it. 

Why Stovetop Chili is a Perfect Weeknight Meal

The beauty of this Quick & Easy Stovetop Chili is how quickly it comes together while still delivering on flavor. With just a few pantry staples like canned beans, tomatoes, and broth, this dish can be on the table in about 30 minutes. It’s the ideal recipe for those who are short on time but still want a wholesome, flavorful meal. Additionally, the use of ground beef or turkey makes it a protein-packed dish that will keep you feeling full and satisfied for hours. Chili is also incredibly adaptable, which makes it a great option for meal planning. You can make a large batch of chili and store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for future meals. 

The Nutritional Value of Chili

One of the main reasons chili is such a popular dish is its nutritional profile. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. The ground beef or turkey provides lean protein that is necessary for muscle growth and repair, while the beans add fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling fuller for longer. Beans are also a great source of iron, which is important for maintaining healthy blood circulation and energy levels. The tomatoes and spices used in chili are also beneficial to your health. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its potential to help protect against certain types of cancer and improve heart health. The spices in chili such as cumin, chili powder, and paprika not only enhance the flavor but also offer numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. 

Endless Variations and Customization

One of the best things about chili is how customizable it is. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. If you like a milder chili, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the cayenne pepper entirely. If you prefer a spicier version, you can increase the heat by adding more cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or even fresh jalapeños. You can also experiment with the type of meat used in your chili. While ground beef is the traditional choice, turkey, chicken, and even plant-based meats are great alternatives. For a richer flavor, consider adding ground sausage or bacon. If you want to cut down on calories or fat, lean ground turkey or chicken can be substituted without sacrificing the dish’s hearty texture. Beans are another area where you can get creative. While kidney beans and black beans are commonly used, you can also try using pinto beans, white beans, or chickpeas. 

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Chili is a dish that can stand on its own, but it’s often enhanced by the sides and toppings you serve with it. A fresh salad is a great option to balance out the richness of the chili, and you could opt for a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a tangy coleslaw. For a heartier side, cornbread is a classic pairing with chili, offering a slightly sweet contrast to the spicy, savory dish. For those who enjoy pairing wine with their meals, a robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel, pairs nicely with chili. These wines have bold flavors that complement the richness of the dish. If you prefer beer, a cold lager or pale ale works well with chili, as the crispness of the beer can help cut through the spice and richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Quick & Easy Stovetop Chili is the perfect meal for anyone who craves a hearty, flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Its simplicity, rich flavors, and versatility make it a go-to option for families, meal preppers, and anyone looking for a satisfying meal. The fact that it’s so easy to adjust based on your tastes or dietary preferences makes it an ideal dish for all occasions. Whether you prefer your chili mild or spicy, with meat or meatless, it’s a meal that can be tailored to suit your needs and enjoyed by everyone.