This tasty no-bean chili packs a punch with juicy ground beef, fresh veggies, and spicy seasonings! It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for chilly days.
Sometimes, you just want your chili without those pesky beans, right? I love making a big pot on game day. It’s great for sharing and tastes even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey is a great lighter option. You could also use plant-based meat substitutes if you’re aiming for a vegetarian version.
Onion: Yellow onions add a nice sweetness to the chili. If you don’t have one, white onions work too; just note that they have a sharper flavor.
Chili Powder: This is a key spice for the chili’s flavor. If you’re low on chili powder, you can substitute with a combination of paprika and cayenne for heat!
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Feel free to skip this if you prefer a milder chili, or use fresh jalapeños for a different heat profile.
Tomato Sauce: For a deeper flavor, consider using fire-roasted tomato sauce. If you’re avoiding tomatoes, you could use vegetable or chicken broth as a base for more flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chili?
To achieve rich and balanced flavors in your chili, follow these steps:
- Cook the onions until they’re soft and golden before adding the garlic. This sweetens them up and builds a great base.
- Browning the meat properly is crucial! Make sure to break it up and let it cook without stirring too much, encouraging those flavorful bits to form.
- Simmer gently! Allowing the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together. If you can let it sit longer, that’s ideal.
- Taste and adjust! Before serving, taste the chili and add more spices or salt as needed. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it your own!
These tips will help you create a no-bean chili that’s bursting with flavor! Enjoy cooking!
No-Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as oregano or basil) for garnish
- Grated cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful no-bean chili takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to simmer. If you have time for a deeper flavor, you can let it simmer for up to 1 hour. Total time will be around 40-70 minutes, depending on how long you choose to simmer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will create a non-stick base for your ingredients.
2. Cook the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the pot. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the onion is softened and slightly translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
3. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing!
4. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook it by breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Make sure to stir well so it’s evenly cooked.
5. Drain if Necessary:
If there’s a lot of excess fat in the pot, carefully drain it out to keep the chili from being too greasy.
6. Add Tomatoes and Sauce:
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. This will create a rich, flavorful base for your chili.
7. Season It Up:
Now it’s time to add the spices! Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
8. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot but leave a little gap for steam to escape. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking. For even better flavor, let it simmer for up to an hour.
9. Taste and Adjust:
Once it’s cooked, taste your chili to see if it needs more salt, pepper, or any other seasoning. Feel free to adjust it to your liking!
10. Serve:
Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of grated cheese. Enjoy it as it is, or over rice, with cornbread, or topped with avocado and sour cream for a delicious meal!
This hearty no-bean chili is sure to warm you up and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef! It will give you a lighter option while still maintaining that hearty flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey may cook faster.
How Should I Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the consistency if needed.
Can I Freeze This Chili?
Absolutely! No-bean chili freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve With No-Bean Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also top it with avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese for extra flavor!
