This No-Bean Chili is a warm, tasty dish perfect for chilly days. Made with ground meat, tomatoes, and spices, it packs a big flavor punch without any beans!
I love how easy it is to prepare! Just cook the meat, mix in the sauce, and let it simmer. It’s great for a cozy night in or feeding hungry friends. You can even top it with cheese for extra yum! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want leaner meat. You can also use ground chicken or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option!
Diced Tomatoes: If fresh tomatoes are on hand, you can chop them up for a fresher taste. Alternatively, use crushed tomatoes for a smoother consistency.
Chili Powder: Adjust the spice level by using more or less chili powder. For a different flavor, try adding smoked chili powder or paprika to enhance the taste.
Beef Broth: Vegetable broth works well if you’re aiming for a meatless version. You can also use water in a pinch, though broth adds more flavor.
How Do I Get My Chili Perfectly Flavorful?
The spices and how long you let your chili simmer can really make a difference. Here’s how to deepen the flavor:
- Make sure to sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. This builds a great base.
- Let the chili simmer longer than the minimum time if you can. The flavors develop beautifully over time.
- If you have time, allow it to sit after cooking. Chili often tastes even better the next day!
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving for the best results. Enjoy your cooking!
No-Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons chili powder (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious No-Bean Chili takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. Overall, you will need approximately 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick but hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Cook it for 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook it for another minute, until it’s fragrant.
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep cooking until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink. If there’s any excess fat, you can drain it off if you prefer a leaner chili.
3. Mix in the Sauce Ingredients:
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix everything well to combine. This will create the flavorful base of your chili!
4. Season it Up:
It’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed, and let the chili come to a simmer.
5. Simmer and Cook:
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you prefer a thicker chili, feel free to let it simmer longer!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaf from the pot. Serve your No-Bean Chili hot, topped with optional ingredients like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor and crunch.
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful No-Bean Chili with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. It will still provide great flavor, especially with the spices in the recipe.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground meat with mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, you can freeze No-Bean Chili! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve With No-Bean Chili?
This chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it over baked potatoes or top it with cheese and sour cream for a delicious meal!
