This hearty no-bean chili is packed with flavor and warmth! It’s made with ground meat, tomatoes, and tasty spices, making it perfect for cozy nights.
Who needs beans, right? I love how quick it is to whip up, plus it’s great for dinner or leftovers the next day. You can even top it with cheese for an extra treat! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its flavor, but you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian choice, try using lentils or mushrooms instead for a hearty texture.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide a great base. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes instead. You could also use crushed tomatoes for a smoother chili.
Chili Powder: This is a key spice for flavor. If you’re out, you can use a mix of paprika, cayenne, and cumin. For a milder option, just reduce the amount of chili powder.
Beef Broth: I often use beef broth for more flavor, but vegetable broth or chicken broth works too. In a pinch, you can use water, but it may lack depth.
How Do You Make Your Chili Thicker?
To achieve a thicker chili without the beans, let it simmer longer. Here’s how to do it:
- Use less broth if you want a chunkier texture.
- After cooking, use a potato masher to break down some of the tomatoes; this will thicken the sauce.
- If you want to speed things up, add a spoonful of cornmeal or masa harina toward the end of cooking to absorb some liquid.
Adjust the simmering time based on how thick you like your chili. Just keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
Delicious 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)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This no-bean chili takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 40 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious meal ready in just under an hour! Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma!
2. Add the Meat:
Next, add 1 pound of ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it before moving on.
3. Stir in the Tomatoes and Spices:
Now, it’s time to combine flavors! Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and 1 cup of beef broth (or water). Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well blended.
4. Let It Simmer:
Add the 2 bay leaves to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. This is where the flavors meld together, so be sure to stir it occasionally! You’ll notice it thickening at this stage.
5. Final Touches:
Once it’s thick and bubbling away, remove the bay leaves and give your chili a taste. Adjust the seasonings if needed. It’s ready to serve!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your no-bean chili hot and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. If you like, top it off with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. Enjoy this rich, comforting meal!”
This no-bean chili recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re craving a hearty dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this chili. It can make the dish a bit lighter while still providing plenty of protein and flavor.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or even a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions. Additionally, a splash of hot sauce or using spicy chili powder can ramp up the spice level!
What Should I Do If the Chili Is Too Thin?
If your chili turns out watery, let it simmer uncovered for longer to help thicken it. You can also stir in a spoonful of cornmeal or masa harina to absorb excess liquid quickly.
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes! This no-bean chili freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or microwave.
