No-Beans Chili
No-Beans Chili
No-Beans Chili is a delicious and hearty dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. This recipe brings all the classic flavors of chili but eliminates the beans, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a meat-centric meal or have dietary restrictions. With its rich, savory ingredients and comforting spices, this chili recipe creates a dish that’s not just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, No-Beans Chili can become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love It
There’s something truly special about a big bowl of chili, especially one that doesn’t include beans. No-Beans Chili resonates with so many people because it focuses on rich flavors and a satisfying texture that makes every spoonful delightful. For those who might have a negative opinion about beans, this recipe provides a hearty alternative that packs a punch without compromising on taste.
Furthermore, this chili is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the level of spiciness, add in your choice of vegetables for extra nutrition, or even make it as a slow cooker recipe for convenience. What’s more, it’s an ideal meal for families; kids generally enjoy the simple yet robust flavors.
Another benefit of No-Beans Chili is preparation and cooking time. It can be whipped up relatively quickly, which makes it perfect for weeknights, or you can prepare it in advance and let it sit, allowing the flavors to deepen. Many find that it tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep as well.
The emotional connection associated with homemade chili can’t be overlooked. Memories of chilly nights spent around the dinner table, laughter, and full bellies come rushing back with every bite. You’re not just making a dish; you’re creating a warm atmosphere that invites family and friends to gather together.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
Crafting No-Beans Chili requires a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to create the perfect comfort food. Start with two tablespoons of olive oil, which will serve as the base for sautéing aromatic vegetables. You’ll also need one medium onion, finely chopped, to provide natural sweetness and depth to the chili. The dish wouldn’t be complete without the bold and fragrant notes of two cloves of minced garlic. Opt for one pound of ground beef, providing a hearty protein source that will enrich the chili’s texture and flavor.
To bring that classic chili taste to life, you’ll incorporate two cans of diced tomatoes with green chilies, a dish’s essential element that introduces both tang and spice. Flavorful spices are crucial; this recipe calls for two tablespoons of chili powder, one tablespoon of ground cumin, one teaspoon of paprika, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Finally, you’ll pour in a cup of beef broth, which adds moisture and brings all the flavors together while ensuring the chili maintains a delightful consistency.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|——————————|——————————-|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Medium onion | 1, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Diced tomatoes with green chilies | 2 (14.5-ounce) cans |
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground cumin | 1 tablespoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Beef broth | 1 cup |
How to Make No-Beans Chili
Step 1
To start making your No-Beans Chili, you will want to gather all of your ingredients and prepare them before you get cooking. Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This method provides a rich base for your chili and ensures that the aromatic ingredients release their wonderful scents as they cook. Once the oil is heated, add your chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté these for about five minutes or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial as it sets up the flavor foundation of your chili.
Step 2
Next, it’s time to add the star of your dish: the ground beef. Pour it into the pot and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want to cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. As the beef cooks, its juices will blend with the sautéed onion and garlic, creating an irresistible aroma that will make everyone hungry. Make sure you stir occasionally to avoid any sticking or burning at the bottom of the pot.
Step 3
Once your beef is browned to perfection, stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Next, add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. These spices will create the authentic chili flavor that you crave. It’s essential that you mix everything well to ensure an even coating of spices throughout the mixture.
Step 4
Finally, add the beef broth to the chili mixture. Stir to combine everything, then bring the pot to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, allowing the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes. This simmering phase is key to developing the rich, robust flavors that make No-Beans Chili so satisfying. While it simmers, it’s a good idea to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking. Once the time is up, your chili is ready to serve hot!
Directions
To make No-Beans Chili, first, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them together until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent. This step should take about five minutes. Afterward, add one pound of ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks, allowing it to brown completely while stirring occasionally, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Once the beef is no longer pink, stir in two cans of diced tomatoes, along with their juices. Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring everything is well combined.
Now, pour in one cup of beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for a minimum of 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the chili from sticking to the bottom of the pot. After simmering, your delicious No-Beans Chili is ready to serve hot.
Helpful Notes
When making No-Beans Chili, keep in mind a few helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience. First, consider the type of beef you choose; while ground beef works wonderfully, you could also opt for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. If you enjoy a smokier flavor, try adding some smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
Additionally, feel free to customize your chili further by adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn. These can enhance the dish’s nutritional value and add some vibrant colors. For serving, top your No-Beans Chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions to elevate the flavor even more. Pair it with rustic bread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
Cooking the chili in a slow cooker is also an option. Simply follow the same initial steps in a skillet before transferring everything to your slow cooker. Set it on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. This method allows the flavors to develop beautifully, giving you a wonderful ‘set it and forget it’ meal for your busy days.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Leftover No-Beans Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure it cools entirely before transferring it to the refrigerator to preserve freshness. If you find yourself with a larger batch and anticipate leftovers, consider freezing portions for later enjoyment. When stored properly in a freezer-safe container, chili can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply thaw the chili in the refrigerator overnight. For reheating, you can warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe container for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Adding a splash of beef broth or water while reheating can help restore some of the initial moisture and richness, especially if it thickened while sitting.
FAQs
What can I serve with No-Beans Chili?
No-Beans Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or even over baked potatoes. You can also serve it with tortilla chips or a simple green salad to balance its heartiness.
Can I make No-Beans Chili spicy?
Absolutely! To spice it up, you can increase the amount of chili powder, or consider adding jalapeños, diced serrano peppers, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Is No-Beans Chili gluten-free?
Yes, this version of chili is gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Ensure that your broth and any additional toppings are also gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, No-Beans Chili tastes even better as it sits, making it an ideal meal prep dish. Make it a day or two ahead of time, and just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
How can I thicken my No-Beans Chili?
If you find your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans (or vegetables for a no-bean version) and stir them into the chili.
What type of meat can I use?
Aside from ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based substitute for a vegetarian option.
How long does it take to cook?
From start to finish, No-Beans Chili takes approximately one hour to cook, including preparation and simmering time.
Conclusion + CTA
No-Beans Chili is not only a satisfying and delicious meal; it’s also a versatile dish that you can easily customize to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet night at home, this chili recipe will surely delight your spirits and fill your stomach. Don’t hesitate to experiment with it! If you enjoyed learning about how to make No-Beans Chili, I invite you to try the recipe today and share it with your loved ones. You will surely create cherished memories and a delicious dish that warms the heart.
No-Beans Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all ingredients. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes with their juices, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes.
- Stir occasionally during simmering. Your chili is ready to serve hot!
