Description
This Quick & Easy Stovetop Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Made with ground beef or turkey, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, it simmers to a comforting, protein-packed meal that can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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 olive oil
Spices
- 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)
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Avocado
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Cook the meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess grease if necessary to keep the chili healthy.
- Toast the spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to toast the spices and release their flavors.
- Add beans and liquids: Pour in the drained kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef or vegetable broth. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the chili: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat slightly and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the chili and add more salt, pepper, or spices if needed to suit your preference.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Top with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth.
- The cayenne pepper is optional; adjust the heat level to your taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
