Easy Chili Recipe on Stove: Hearty One-Pot Comfort for Busy Families

Staring into the fridge wondering what’s for dinner? I know that feeling! Craving something warm, hearty, and unbelievably easy? Our tried-and-true easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot is here to save the day, bringing satisfying flavor without the fuss. The rich, Brick Red color and comforting aroma of this easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot immediately fills my kitchen, promising a delicious meal. It’s a foolproof one-pot wonder, perfect for busy families and always gets rave reviews, making it a fantastic healthy recipe for quick dinner ideas.

easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot

Ingredient List with Smart Choices

To create this incredibly satisfying easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot, gather these kitchen staples. Each ingredient contributes to the robust flavor and hearty texture that makes this dish a family-friendly favorite.

  • Ground Beef: 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (or opt for ground turkey, or plant-based crumbles for a meat-free version).
  • Onion: 1 large onion, diced (adds essential aromatic base).
  • Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced (for pungent depth).
  • Chili Powder: 2 tbsp good quality chili powder (the core spice, ensure it’s gluten-free if needed).
  • Cumin: 1 tsp ground cumin (for earthy warmth).
  • Dried Oregano: 1/2 tsp dried oregano (classic chili herb).
  • Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 oz / 794g) can crushed tomatoes (provides a smooth, rich tomato base).
  • Diced Tomatoes: 1 (15 oz / 425g) can diced tomatoes, undrained (for texture and tang; I often use fire-roasted for extra depth).
  • Kidney Beans: 1 (15 oz / 425g) can dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (adds protein and heartiness; or use black beans if that’s what’s in your pantry).
  • Pinto Beans: 1 (15 oz / 425g) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained (another layer of texture and protein).
  • Broth: 1 cup (240ml) beef or vegetable broth (for simmering liquid; choose low-sodium for a healthier option).
  • Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste (essential for balancing flavors).
  • Optional: A pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick (adjust to your family’s preference).

Easy Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Whipping up this easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps for a comforting, nutritious meal.

  1. Prep & Sauté: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, brown 1 lb (450g) ground beef over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. Once cooked through and no longer pink, drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook for 5-7 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant. I’ve found this easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot truly comes together quickly on a busy weeknight. If it looks dry, add a splash of broth to prevent sticking.
  2. Spice It Up: Stir in the 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, and the optional pinch of cayenne pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until the spices are wonderfully fragrant and toasted. This step truly unlocks their flavor.
  3. Simmer & Savor: Pour in the 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained), the rinsed kidney beans, rinsed pinto beans, and 1 cup (240ml) beef or vegetable broth. Stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for even deeper flavor), stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot to thicken, achieving its signature Brick Red hue. I often add a small square of dark chocolate here, a trick my grandmother taught me, to deepen the chili’s richness without making it taste sweet.
  4. Taste & Serve: Uncover and taste the chili. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking, adjusting until the flavors truly pop. Ladle out generous bowls of your comforting easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot and prepare for happy faces.

Ideal Uses and Serving Suggestions

This easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot is a true weeknight warrior for quick dinner ideas, perfect for game day gatherings, cozy family movie nights, or a comforting lunch.

Serve with warm cornbread, fluffy rice, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Your easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze portions for up to 3 months for effortless budget meal prep. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Everyday Benefits of Cooking with Easy Chili Recipe on Stove

This easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot is a champion for busy schedules and budget meal prep, using affordable pantry staples for a big batch that feeds a crowd or lasts all week. It makes for truly convenient family dinners.

Packed with protein from meat/beans and fiber from vegetables, it’s a healthy recipe for families, providing sustained energy and making it a nutritious meal that truly satisfies.

easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot

Tips, Variations, and Dietary Adjustments

For best results, don’t overcrowd the pot when browning meat; a 10-inch skillet helps ensure good browning. Simmering longer truly allows flavors to meld beautifully; I often let my pot of this chili gently bubble for an hour or more if I’m working from home, letting that cozy aroma fill the kitchen, perfect for healthy eating.

To tweak flavors, add hot sauce for kick, smoked paprika for depth, or unsweetened cocoa powder for richness. For a smoky touch, try chipotle in adobo sauce.

  • Low-Carb: Reduce beans by half (use 1/2 cup) or omit; add more low-carb veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
  • Plant-Based: Substitute ground meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles for a hearty vegetarian chili.
  • Kid-Safe: Reduce or omit cayenne pepper. Offer mild toppings like shredded cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this easy chili recipe on stove suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, this easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot can be gluten-free! Ensure your chili powder and any broth you use are certified gluten-free. Most other ingredients, like beans and tomatoes, are naturally GF, making it a healthy option for many families.

Q: How can I meal prep with this easy chili recipe on stove for the week?

This easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot is fantastic for meal prep. Cook a large batch on the weekend, then portion it into individual containers for quick, healthy lunches or dinners throughout the busy week, making healthy eating convenient.

Q: What’s the best way to store homemade easy chili recipe on stove?

Store your homemade easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, I simply microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes or warm gently on the stove.

Q: Can I make this easy chili recipe on stove vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make this easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot vegetarian, swap the ground meat for 1.5 cups of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or extra beans. Use vegetable broth for a vegan version. It’s a versatile recipe for various dietary needs.

Q: What are some great toppings for an easy chili recipe on stove?

Popular toppings for this easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot include shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. Customize to your family’s favorites!

Q: How can I adjust the spice level of this easy chili recipe on stove?

For more heat, add extra cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño (with seeds removed for less intense heat). For a milder version, reduce the chili powder by half and omit any extra spicy ingredients. It’s easy to tailor for a family-friendly meal.

Conclusion

There you have it – your new favorite easy chili recipe on stove, a satisfying and incredibly versatile dish proving hearty family meals can be simple. For future meal prep and quick meal ideas, save this family-friendly recipe to your Pinterest board!

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Easy Chili Recipe On Stove Brick Red One Pot 1760572237.0399027

easy chili recipe on stove Brick Red One Pot


  • Author: Nicole Martinez
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x
  • Diet: General

Description

This easy one-pot stove chili recipe delivers a hearty, comforting, and flavorful meal with a signature Brick Red hue, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey or plant-based crumbles)
  • 1 large onion, diced (adds essential aromatic base)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for pungent depth)
  • 2 tbsp chili powder (ensure it’s gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin (for earthy warmth)
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano (classic chili herb)
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (provides a smooth, rich tomato base)
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained (for texture and tang; fire-roasted for extra depth)
  • 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (or black beans)
  • 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth (for simmering liquid; low-sodium for a healthier option)
  • Salt, to taste (for balancing flavors)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (for balancing flavors)
  • A pinch cayenne pepper, optional (for a subtle kick)

Instructions

  1. Prep & Saute: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, brown 1 lb ground beef over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. Once cooked through and no longer pink, drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook for 5-7 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant. (If it looks dry, add a splash of broth to prevent sticking.)
  2. Spice It Up: Stir in the 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 0.5 tsp dried oregano, and the optional pinch of cayenne pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until the spices are wonderfully fragrant and toasted.
  3. Simmer & Savor: Pour in the 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained), the rinsed kidney beans, rinsed pinto beans, and 1 cup beef or vegetable broth. Stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. (Optional: add a small square of dark chocolate here to deepen richness.)
  4. Taste & Serve: Uncover and taste the chili. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking, adjusting until the flavors truly pop. Ladle out generous bowls of your comforting chili.

Notes

For deeper flavor, simmer the chili for up to 2 hours. Consider adding a small square of dark chocolate during simmering for added richness. If using ground turkey or plant-based crumbles, adjust cooking time as needed. Choose low-sodium broth and gluten-free chili powder for dietary adjustments.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 380 calories
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 12 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: easy chili, stove, one pot, brick red, ground beef, healthy, quick dinner, family friendly, hearty

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