Beanless Chili Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal without the bulk of beans, this beanless chili recipe is the perfect comfort food. Packed with bold spices, tender ground beef, and rich tomato flavors, it’s a protein-packed dish that satisfies every time. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or paleo lifestyle—or simply prefer your chili meatier—this no-bean version delivers robust taste in every bite. Ideal for game day, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, this chili is simple to make and easy to customize. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and serving ideas that’ll keep you coming back for more!

Why You Will Love This Beanless Chili Recipe

You’ll love this beanless chili because it delivers all the bold, smoky, and savory flavors of traditional chili—without the beans. It’s perfect for those following low-carb, keto, or paleo diets, and it’s also ideal if you simply prefer a meatier, more protein-rich meal. The combination of ground beef, aromatic spices, and a thick tomato base creates a deeply satisfying dish that’s easy to make in just one pot. Whether you enjoy it on its own, with toppings, or as a base for other meals, this chili is incredibly versatile, freezer-friendly, and sure to become a household favorite.

Preparation Process Of Beanless Chili Recipe

This recipe begins by sautéing aromatics like onion and garlic, followed by browning the beef to lock in flavor. Once the meat is perfectly cooked, tomatoes, spices, and broth are added. The chili then simmers gently to blend all flavors into a rich, thick, and satisfying meal. Minimal prep and a one-pot method make this a go-to for busy weeknights.

Step By Step Instructions

Season & Sear Beef: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear for 4–5 minutes, breaking it apart and browning evenly. Once browned, remove excess grease if needed.

Sauté Onion & Garlic: In the same pot, add diced onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Tomato Base: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to intensify the flavor. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, mixing thoroughly to combine.

Add Spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne (optional), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.

Simmer & Thicken: Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and rich in flavor.

Taste & Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning as needed. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

How to Serve?

• Topped with shredded cheddar and sour cream
• With cornbread or tortilla chips
• Over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• Inside baked potatoes or sweet potatoes
• As a hot dog or nacho topping

Tips & Variations

Nutrition

1. Calories: 375
2. Protein: 28g
3. Carbohydrates: 9g
4. Fat: 24g
5. Fiber: 3g
6. Sugar: 5g

Recipe Card

Beanless Chili Recipe

Recipe by Rachael rayCourse: Chili Recipe

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

375

kcal

This beanless chili recipe is a bold, meaty twist on a classic favorite. Made with seasoned ground beef, aromatic spices, and a savory tomato base, it’s perfect for anyone seeking a low-carb, keto-friendly meal. Free from beans but full of hearty flavor, this chili is ideal for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings. It’s simple, satisfying, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings or add-ins. Whether served in a bowl, over rice, or as a topping, this no-bean chili delivers delicious results every time. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and great for meal prep.

Ingredients

• Ground beef (80/20) – 2 lbs

• Yellow onion, diced – 1 large

• Garlic cloves, minced – 4

• Crushed tomatoes – 28 oz can

• Tomato paste – 2 tbsp

• Beef broth – 1 cup

• Chili powder – 2 tbsp

• Cumin – 1 tbsp

• Smoked paprika – 1 tsp

• Oregano – 1 tsp

• Cayenne pepper – ¼ tsp (optional)

• Salt – to taste

• Black pepper – to taste

• Olive oil – 2 tbs

Directions

• Season & Sear Beef: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear for 4–5 minutes, breaking it apart and browning evenly. Once browned, remove excess grease if needed.
• Sauté Onion & Garlic: In the same pot, add diced onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add Tomato Base: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to intensify the flavor. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, mixing thoroughly to combine.
• Add Spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne (optional), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.
• Simmer & Thicken: Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and rich in flavor.
• Taste & Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning as needed. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Recipe Video

Notes

• Adjust cayenne for desired spice level
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor impact
• Simmering longer enhances flavor depth
• Chili thickens as it cools—perfect for next-day leftovers

FAQs

Conclusion