No-Bean Chili is a hearty and delicious dish packed with flavor. Made with ground meat, tomatoes, and spices, it’s a filling meal perfect for cold days!
Honestly, this chili is a winner for anyone who isn’t a fan of beans. I love how easy it is to whip up in just one pot—less cleanup means more time for cozying up! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil adds healthy fats and flavor. You can use vegetable oil or avocado oil if you’re looking for alternatives. I often stick with olive oil for the taste!
Onion: A staple for building flavor in many dishes. Yellow onions are traditional, but red or sweet onions can be used for a milder taste.
Ground Beef: I usually opt for lean ground beef, but ground turkey or chicken works well too. If you’re vegetarian, crushed lentils or mushrooms can add texture.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide a rich base. If you’re out, fresh tomatoes can be diced and used, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are essential for flavor. Feel free to play with smoked paprika and add other spices like cayenne or crushed red pepper for extra kick!
How Do I Make Sure My Chili Is Flavorful?
Building flavor in your chili is all about layering ingredients. Start by sautéing onions in oil until soft—this brings out their sweetness. After adding garlic, don’t rush to add other ingredients; let the beef brown well for deeper flavor.
- After browning the meat, always drain excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Mix all sauces and spices thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution. I recommend tasting and adjusting as you go!
- Letting the chili simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully; be patient—it’s worth it!
Enjoy the process and your delicious No-Bean Chili!
No-Bean Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh oregano or bay leaves (optional)
- Sour cream or plain yogurt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This No-Bean Chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and roughly 40-50 minutes to cook, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner. You’ll have a hearty meal ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Base:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes softened and translucent. It adds such a nice foundational flavor!
2. Add Garlic and Meat:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that wonderful aroma. Now, add the ground beef (or ground turkey). Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s browned and there’s no pink left, about 6-8 minutes. If you’re using turkey, you might want to cook it a bit longer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
3. Combine the Sauces:
If there’s excess fat from the beef, drain it off. Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix everything well so all those flavors can combine beautifully!
4. Spice it Up:
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like a little extra heat. Stir it thoroughly to coat everything in the spices.
5. Let it Simmer:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook gently for 30-40 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
6. Thicken and Taste:
If you want your chili thicker, remove the cover and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes. This helps to condense the flavors. Before serving, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Maybe a pinch more salt or chili powder?
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the warm chili in bowls and garnish it with fresh oregano or bay leaves if you have them. A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt on top makes it extra creamy and delicious. Enjoy your homemade No-Bean Chili!
This recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for any meal! Enjoy! 😊
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lighter alternative and will work just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly to enhance the flavor.
Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
Yes! If you like heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños while cooking. You can also top it with hot sauce when serving for an extra kick.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Chili?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the mix for added flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up and add them along with the onions for the best results.
