Description
This Healthy Stovetop Chili Recipe is packed with bold flavors and high-protein ingredients, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal for any occasion. Made with lean ground beef, beans, and aromatic spices, this one-pot recipe comes together in under an hour for a fuss-free dinner. It’s perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or even game-day gatherings.
Ingredients
Core Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean)
- 1 ¾ cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 28 oz can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 15 oz can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Aromatics and Spices:
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro
- Crumbled tortilla chips or diced avocado
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the yellow onion and mince the garlic.
- Drain and rinse both the kidney beans and pinto beans to remove excess sodium.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
- Add the ground beef to the pot and break it into small crumbles as it cooks.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste
- Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, chili powder, brown sugar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the spices cook for 1–2 minutes to release their full flavor.
Step 5: Add Liquids and Beans
- Pour in the beef broth and fire-roasted crushed tomatoes.
- Stir in the kidney beans and pinto beans, ensuring all ingredients are well-combined.
Step 6: Simmer the Chili
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Adjust and Serve
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot in bowls with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices.
Notes
- For Milder Chili: Omit the chili powder and use plain crushed tomatoes instead of fire-roasted.
- For a Thicker Chili: Mash a portion of the beans or simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles and beef broth with vegetable broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American