This hearty No-Bean Chili is packed with flavor, featuring ground meat, tomatoes, and spices that warm you right up. It’s perfect for a cozy evening!
I love how quick it is to make—just mix, simmer, and enjoy! You can top it with cheese or avocado for extra yumminess. What’s not to love? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is a key ingredient that gives the chili its hearty texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey works well too. You could even try ground chicken or a meat alternative for a leaner or vegetarian option.
Chili Powder: This spice is essential for that classic chili flavor. If you’re in a pinch, taco seasoning can substitute for chili powder but might add a different taste. Want it spicier? Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes give the chili its richness. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to use them instead. You can also opt for low-sodium canned tomatoes if you’re watching your salt intake.
Beef Broth: This deepens the flavor of the chili. You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. Homemade broth will add an extra layer of flavor if you have it on hand!
Fresh Herbs: Definitely add fresh basil or cilantro at the end— it brightens the dish! If you don’t have these, a sprinkle of dried herbs can work too, though fresh is always best!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Ground Meat for Chili?
Cooking the ground meat well is crucial for texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot, heavy-bottomed pot. This ensures even browning.
- Add the ground meat in a single layer without overcrowding. If you add too much, it stews instead of browning.
- Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This helps achieve that nice crumbly texture.
- Cook until fully browned, and any moisture has evaporated—about 6-8 minutes. This depth of flavor from browning is key!
Through these steps, you will create a base that enhances the overall taste of your no-bean chili, making it a delightful dish!
How to Make No-Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 ½ cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Fresh bay leaves (2-3 leaves)
- Grated cheddar cheese or shredded mozzarella cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh basil or cilantro leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This No-Bean Chili takes about 15 minutes to prepare and should simmer for 30-40 minutes, making the total time around 50-55 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but hearty enough to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Onions and Garlic:
In a large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell that lovely aroma.
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef or turkey into the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pot, it’s a good idea to drain it at this point.
3. Add Your Spices:
Once the meat is browned, stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes to toast the spices—this really brings out their flavors!
4. Combine the Tomatoes and Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), the tomato paste, and the beef broth. If you’re using Worcestershire sauce, add that too, along with the fresh bay leaves. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
5. Let It Simmer:
Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer uncovered for at least 30-40 minutes, and stir occasionally. This is the magic time when all those flavors meld together beautifully and the chili thickens.
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, remove the bay leaves and taste your chili! Adjust the seasoning if needed—more salt, pepper, or heat if you like it spicier. It’s all about your personal taste!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chili hot in bowls, topped with shredded cheese and fresh basil or cilantro leaves if desired. You might also offer sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado slices on the side for extra flavor. Enjoy your deliciously hearty No-Bean Chili!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. It will slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly to enhance its taste!
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you prefer a spicier chili, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add a couple of diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the pot when you add the onions. Hot sauce is also a fantastic way to kick up the heat at the end!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld! To freeze, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I Add Beans to This Chili?
While this is a no-bean chili, you can certainly add beans if you prefer! Black beans or pinto beans would work well. Just drain and rinse them before adding them in during the last 15 minutes of cooking to heat through.
