Beef Chili | Easy Stovetop Chili
Beef chili is one of those classic comfort foods that brings people together around the table. Thick, hearty, and full of robust flavors, this easy stovetop chili recipe is a winning choice for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. Picture yourself stirring a bubbling pot, the enticing aroma of seasoned meat, vegetables, and tomatoes filling your kitchen. Once you take that first warm bite, it’s clear: this isn’t just another bowl of chili; it’s the kind of dish that warms you up inside and out, no matter the weather.
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I remember the first time I made this beef chili. I was looking for a recipe that would satisfy my craving for something rich and hearty without taking forever to prep and cook. This recipe caught my attention with its simplicity and heartiness. The combination of ground pork and beef creates a deep flavor that elevates the dish, while the addition of fresh dill adds a fantastic, unexpected twist. If you’re ready to enjoy an easy beef chili that everyone will ask for seconds, let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: This beef chili comes together in just 40 minutes—10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes on the stovetop.
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of seasoned meat, sweet onions, and fiery spices makes every bite a delight.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful mix of veggies and toppings creates a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- Flexible Serving: Whether as a cozy dinner for two or the star of your next game day party, it fits any occasion perfectly.
- Diet-Friendly Options: It’s easily adaptable—swap meat for plant-based alternatives or adjust spices for different taste profiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 medium onion, chopped: This adds foundational sweetness and texture. Feel free to use yellow, white, or even red onions for different flavor notes.
½ pound ground pork: Using ground pork brings a juicy richness to the chili; you could substitute it with ground turkey or beef if preferred.
½ pound extra lean ground beef: Lean beef keeps the chili hearty but not overly greasy. For a different flavor, opt for lean ground chicken or turkey.
1 can (227 g) mushrooms: Either canned or fresh mushrooms add an earthy depth. If using fresh, sauté them until golden for an enhanced taste.
1 green pepper, chopped: This adds a nice crunch and color. You could replace it with red or yellow peppers for a sweeter flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses a lovely aroma and sharpness that complements the meat.
1/2 packet (35 g) Clubhouse chili seasoning mix: This convenient mix packs a punch of flavors like cumin and paprika. You can easily adjust the amount for heat.
1/2 packet (35 g) Clubhouse spicy seasoning mix: For an extra kick! If you prefer milder chili, omit this or go easy on it.
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes (796 ml): Adds moisture and acidity; use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
1 can (10 oz) tomato soup: This creates a velvety texture. Make it more homemade by substituting with crushed tomatoes.
1 teaspoon cumin: The warm, earthy notes of cumin are essential in a good chili.
1 can (540 ml) dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Beans add substance and protein; you can substitute with black beans or chickpeas if desired.
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped: This bright herb adds a unique flavor to the chili. Dried dill can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
6 cups mashed potatoes (optional): If you’re feeling indulgent, serve the chili over creamy mashed potatoes—such a cozy combo!
Grated light cheese: A sprinkle of cheese adds creaminess and helps balance the spices.
Light sour cream: This tangy topping is optional but recommended for adding creaminess.
Additional fresh dill: Use as a garnish for a fresh touch.
How to Make Beef Chili | Easy Stovetop Chili Recipe
Brown the meat: Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ½ pound ground pork and ½ pound extra lean ground beef along with 1 chopped medium onion and 1 chopped green pepper. Sauté everything until the meat is browned and the vegetables soften slightly, smelling delightful—about 8 minutes should do it.
Combine the base ingredients: Once the meat mixture has browned, it’s time to add the flavor. Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of tomato soup, 1 teaspoon of cumin, ½ pack of Clubhouse chili seasoning mix, and ½ pack of Clubhouse spicy seasoning mix. These layers create a delicious, rich base.
Simmer on medium: Bring the chili to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing all those flavors to meld together. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The delightful smell that fills your kitchen will drive everyone wild!
Add the dill: After 15 minutes, stir in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill. This aromatic herb brightens the chili’s flavor profile and rounds off the savory notes beautifully.
Finish simmering: Continue to simmer on low heat for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the green pepper and onion are tender. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will combine, creating a robust and hearty chili.
Serve it up: Ladle the chili over a generous serving of mashed potatoes if you choose to go that route; it’s a match made in heaven! Top with light sour cream, additional fresh dill, and grated light cheese to elevate your dish.
Storing & Reheating
If you have leftover chili, cool it to room temperature before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chili for up to three months—just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally for even heating. You may notice that the texture thickens slightly; if so, add a splash of broth or water to refresh its consistency.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while browning the meat; this helps achieve a good sear and richer flavor.
- If you enjoy heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when browning the meat.
- Add more vegetables if desired—corn or zucchini can add interesting textures and flavors.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end; if it needs more balance, a sprinkle of sugar can sometimes help cut acidity.
- Feel free to make this chili a day ahead! It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Beef chili is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming gathering dish that should be in every home cook’s recipe list. With its easy preparation and mouthwatering flavors, this beef chili will soon become your go-to for cozy nights and special occasions alike! I encourage you to make this recipe your own—experiment with spices or toppings, and enjoy the process. You may never want to try another chili recipe again.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this chili spicy?
Absolutely! If you love heat, adding fresh jalapeños while browning the meat or increasing the amount of spicy seasoning mix will amp up the heat. You can also top it with hot sauce for an extra kick.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! You can freeze the beef chili in an airtight container for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
What can I serve with beef chili?
Besides the mash, chili pairs excellently with cornbread, tortilla chips, or fresh crusty bread. It also works wonderfully as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos!
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Certainly! Replace both ground meats with a plant-based alternative, such as lentils or canned beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adjust spices to your taste, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian chili!
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📖 Recipe Card
Beef Chili | Easy Stovetop Chili
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: One Pot
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This beef chili is not just delicious; it’s quick and simple to prepare. Loaded with ground pork, lean beef, and robust spices, it’s a go-to comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 med onion chopped
- ½ lb ground pork
- ½ lb extra lean ground beef
- 227 g can of mushrooms (or use fresh)
- 1 green pepper chopped
- 3 cloves garlic
- ½ 35 g pkg clubhouse chili seasoning mix
- ½ 35 g pkg clubhouse spicy seasoning mix
- 1 –28 oz can diced tomatoes (796 ml)
- 1 10 -10 oz can tomato soup
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 –540 ml can dark red kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoon fresh dill finely chopped
- 6 cups mashed potatoes optional
- grated light cheese
- light sour cream
- additional fresh dill
Instructions
- Brown ground pork and beef with chopped onion and green pepper over medium-high heat.
- Once the meat and vegetables are browned, stir in the remaining ingredients, leaving out the dill, cheese, and mashed potatoes.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes over medium heat.
- Add the fresh dill to the pot.
- Lower the heat and continue simmering until the green pepper and onion are tender, about 5-10 minutes more.
- Serve the chili over a cup of mashed potatoes, if desired.
Notes
Fresh dill really enhances the flavor, so it’s highly recommended!
For a quicker meal, use leftover or instant mashed potatoes instead of making fresh ones.
Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference for more or less heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
