How to Make The Best Beef Chili with Easy Stove-Top and Slow Cooker Tips

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of beef chili to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table! Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a cozy meal to share with friends, this Best Beef Chili recipe is sure to become a favorite. With easy stove-top and slow cooker instructions, you can whip up this delicious chili in no time. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying. So, let’s dive into this easy beef chili recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Versatile cooking methods: stove-top or slow cooker!
• Packed with flavor and nutrition, thanks to lean ground beef and beans.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks.
• Can be customized with your favorite toppings for a fun twist!

Ingredients

To make the best beef chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 jalapeño pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 cups beef broth
• 1 15oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 15oz can of kidney beans
• 1 15oz can of pinto beans
• 1 6oz can of tomato paste
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Making this beef chili recipe is a breeze! Follow these simple steps:

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns, for about 6-7 minutes. Once cooked through, remove it to a separate plate.
2. To the same pot, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and jalapeño, sautéing for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked ground beef back to the pot and stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, sugar, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Pour in the beef broth, drained beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir and bring to a boil. Turn the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 20-30 minutes.
5. Serve warm and garnish with your favorite toppings. We love using cheddar cheese, sour cream, cilantro, green onion, lime, and chips!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to elevate your chili game:

• For a spicier kick, add more jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Letting the chili sit for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavors even more!
• Consider using a mix of beans for added texture and flavor.
• If you’re short on time, check out my Classic Slow Cooker Chili for a hands-off approach!

How to Serve

This delicious chili recipe is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• Chili cheese fries for a fun twist!
• Warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
• Over rice or pasta for a hearty meal.
• As a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.

Make Ahead and Storage

This beef chili is a fantastic make-ahead meal! Here’s how to store it:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave.

Now that you have this easy beef chili recipe in your back pocket, you can enjoy a hearty meal any night of the week! Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or a cozy dish to share with friends, this chili is sure to please. And if you’re in the mood for more delicious recipes, don’t forget to check out my Best Ever Beef Chili and Crockpot Chili for more options. Happy cooking!

The Best Beef Chili (Stove-Top and Slow Cooker Instructions)

A hearty and flavorful beef chili perfect for cozy nights, with easy steps for stove-top or slow cooker preparation.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Meat

• 1 lb lean ground beef

Vegetables

• 1 yellow onion diced yellow onion
• 0.5 jalapeño pepper diced jalapeño pepper

Aromatics

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp olive oil

Liquids and Canned Goods

• 1.5 cups beef broth
• 1 15oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 15oz can kidney beans
• 1 15oz can pinto beans
• 1 6oz can tomato paste

Spices and Seasonings

• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 Tbsp sugar

Salt and Pepper

• Salt
• Pepper

Method

 

1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, about 6-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Add olive oil to the same pot, sauté diced onions for 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and jalapeño, cooking for another minute.
3. Return beef to the pot, stir in tomato paste, spices, and sugar. Pour in beef broth, beans, and tomatoes, then bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Serve warm with toppings.

Notes

For extra flavor, garnish with cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or green onions.