No Bean Chili

This no bean chili recipe is a hearty ground beef chili made with tomatoes, green chiles, and classic chili spices. Ideal for low carb and keto-style meals, it’s a popular choice for game day food, weeknight dinners, and cold weather comfort meals. Made in one pot and ready in under an hour, this easy chili recipe pairs well with cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips, and works great for meal prep or freezing.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 recommended)
• 1 onion or large shallot, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
• 1 cup beef broth or stock
• 2½ tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Pinch of white sugar

Optional Toppings
Sliced fresh jalapeños, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, green onions, chopped onions, sour cream

Instructions

1. Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef, onion or shallot, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the beef is fully browned. Keep the meat in larger chunks for a heartier texture.
3. Add the fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, diced green chiles, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne, and sugar. Stir to combine.
4. Increase heat to high and bring the chili to a gentle boil.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Skim off excess fat if needed.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning, then ladle into bowls and serve with desired toppings.

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Tips

• Browning the beef well builds deep flavor from the start.
• Simmer uncovered to help the chili thicken naturally.
• Let the chili rest for a few minutes before serving for better texture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicier: Add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
• Milder: Reduce chili powder or omit cayenne.
• Different Meat: Use ground turkey or ground pork instead of beef.
• Smoky Flavor: Add a small amount of chipotle powder or smoked salt.

FAQs

Why is there sugar in the chili?
A small pinch balances the acidity of the tomatoes without making the chili sweet.

Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day and keeps well in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze no bean chili?
Yes, store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips.
• Use as a topping for baked potatoes or hot dogs.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, bold chili flavor without beans
• Quick and easy one-pot meal
• Perfect for game day or family dinners
• Easy to customize with toppings and spice level