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No Beans Chili

The Best No Beans Chili Recipe

This No Beans Chili Recipe is incredibly simple to make, yet it delivers deep, bold flavors with every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, game day, or meal prep, the slow-simmering process ensures maximum taste and tenderness.

  • Total Time: 1 h 15 min
  • Yield: Serves 4-6 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Meat & Base

  • 2 lbs ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Tomato & Liquid Ingredients

  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth (adjust for consistency)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Flavor Enhancers

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (balances the richness)
  • 1 tsp cocoa powder (deepens the flavor – optional but recommended)
  • 1 tsp hot sauce (for extra heat, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

  2. Add 1 large chopped onion and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

    👉 Tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning. Garlic burns quickly and can turn bitter!

Step 2: Brown the Meat

  1. Add 2 lbs ground beef to the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink.

  2. Drain excess grease if needed.

    👉 Pro Tip: If using chuck roast, sear it in batches for a richer, deeper flavor.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

  1. Stir in the spices:

    • 2 tbsp chili powder
    • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
    • 1 tbsp cumin
    • 1 tsp dried oregano
    • ½ tsp cayenne (adjust to taste)
    • Salt & black pepper to taste

  2. Toast the spices for 1 minute to enhance their aroma.

    👉 Spice Tip: Toasting spices in hot oil releases their essential oils, making the flavors more intense.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

  1. Stir in:

    • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
    • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
    • 2 tbsp tomato paste
    • 1 cup beef broth
    • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

    👉 Thicker Chili? If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it cook uncovered for the last 20 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches & Serve

  1. Taste and adjust seasonings. Add a splash of hot sauce if you like more heat.
  2. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Notes

Ingredient Swaps & Adjustments

  • Meat: Swap ground beef for chuck roast, turkey, or even bison for a different texture.
  • Spices: Adjust cayenne and hot sauce for more or less heat. Add a touch of cinnamon for a unique warmth.
  • Liquid: Want a deeper flavor? Substitute dark beer for the beef broth.

Storage & Reheating Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
  • Reheating: Simmer on low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore consistency.
  • Author: Anna RM
  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 1 h