Keto Beef Chili (No Beans)

Keto Beef Chili (No Beans)

A hearty, low-carb one-pot wonder that’s perfect for meal prep.

Key Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes (stovetop) / 4-6 hours (slow cooker)
• Total Time: 1 hour / 4-6 hours
• Servings: 6-8
• Difficulty: Easy
• Diet: Keto, Low-carb, Gluten-free, Paleo

Equipment Needed

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Alternative: Slow cooker or Instant Pot

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1 large onion, diced (about 2 cups)
• 2 medium bell peppers, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 (14.5 oz/411g) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth

Seasoning Mix:

• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ tsp cayenne pepper for heat

Method

1. Heat Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add ground beef and brown thoroughly (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Remove excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot.
3. Add diced onions and peppers to the pot. Cook until softened (5-7 minutes).

4. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
5. Add all seasonings and stir to coat meat and vegetables.
6. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

8. Taste and adjust seasonings. Chili is ready when it’s thickened and flavors have melded.

Crucial Tips

• Don’t drain tomatoes – their liquid adds flavor.
• Simmer uncovered to achieve desired thickness.
• Let rest 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.
• Look for surface oils to turn slightly darker – sign of proper cooking.

Storage & Variations

Storage:

• Refrigerate up to 5 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Always cool completely before storing.

Scaling:

• Recipe doubles easily.
• Use 1.5x spices when doubling (not 2x).

Common Mistakes:

• Adding too much liquid.
• Not browning meat properly.
• Rushing the simmering process.

Variations:

• Ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Add mushrooms for more bulk.
• Incorporate sugar-free dark chocolate for depth.
• Top with avocado for healthy fats.

This chili develops even better flavor overnight and makes excellent leftovers. Perfect for batch cooking and meal prep!