When it comes to chili, there’s often a friendly debate—beans or no beans? For many chili purists (especially in Texas), the best bowl is chili without beans.
This hearty, meaty dish is packed with flavor, rich spices, and a savory kick that makes it perfect for cold nights, game days, or any time you crave comfort food.
In this post, we’ll walk you through a delicious chili without beans recipe, tips to make it perfect every time, and even a few kitchen tools from Amazon that will make the process easier.
You can also check: Easy-made chili beans recipe
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Why Choose Chili Without Beans?
Some people avoid beans for dietary reasons, while others simply prefer the bold, meaty flavor that comes from focusing on beef, spices, and tomatoes.
Without beans, the chili has a richer, thicker texture—ideal for serving over rice, cornbread, or even loaded baked potatoes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a flavorful chili without beans, gather the following:
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2 lbs ground beef (or chuck for richer flavor)
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1 large onion, chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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2 cups beef broth
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
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3 tbsp chili powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp oregano
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1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
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2 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
In a large cast iron Dutch oven (check this Lodge 6-Quart Dutch Oven on Amazon), heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Season the Base
Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Toast the spices for about 1 minute to deepen their flavor.
4. Add Tomatoes & Broth
Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Simmer for Rich Flavor
Reduce the heat to low and cover partially. Let the chili simmer for at least 45 minutes—but if you have time, 2 hours will make it even richer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
(Tip: A slow cooker like the Crock-Pot 7-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is perfect if you want to set it and forget it.)
6. Taste and Adjust
Check the seasoning before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Chili without beans pairs beautifully with:
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Cornbread – Sweet or savory cornbread balances the spice. Try a non-stick cast iron skillet like the Lodge 10.25-Inch Skillet for perfect results.
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Baked potatoes – Pour chili over fluffy baked potatoes for a filling meal.
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Rice – White, brown, or even Mexican rice makes a great base.
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Shredded cheese & sour cream – For a creamy, indulgent topping.
Tips for the Best Chili Without Beans
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Use quality beef – Chuck roast cut into small cubes gives the chili more texture than ground beef.
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Toast your spices – It makes the flavor richer and more complex.
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Let it rest – Chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.
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Add depth – A splash of strong brewed coffee or a bit of dark chocolate can make the flavor more robust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Chili Without Beans
1. Is chili without beans still considered chili?
Yes! In fact, traditional Texas-style chili is made without beans. The focus is on slow-cooked meat, spices, and a thick tomato-based sauce.
2. Can I make chili without beans in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Just brown the meat first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
3. What meat works best for beanless chili?
Ground beef is classic, but cubed beef chuck or brisket gives it a heartier texture and richer flavor. You can also mix beef and pork for added depth.
4. How do I make chili without beans thicker?
Simmer uncovered for the last 20–30 minutes to reduce excess liquid. You can also add a small amount of tomato paste or mash a few cooked potatoes into the pot.
5. Can I freeze chili without beans?
Yes. Once cooled, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. Reheat slowly on the stovetop for best results.
6. How spicy should chili without beans be?
That’s up to you! Start with mild chili powder, then add cayenne or fresh jalapeños if you like more heat. Keep extra hot sauce on the table for spice lovers.
7. What sides go well with chili without beans?
Cornbread, tortilla chips, baked potatoes, steamed rice, and fresh salads are all perfect pairings.
Final Thoughts
Chili without beans is a meaty, flavorful dish that’s as versatile as it is comforting.
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or game day gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
With the right cookware and ingredients, you’ll have a bowl of chili that’s pure perfection—no beans needed.
