As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of chili to brighten up a busy weeknight. And the best part? You don’t need beans to make it happen! In fact, many of us have found that no-bean chilies can be just as rich and satisfying as their bean-filled counterparts. With a little creativity and some clever substitutions, you can create delicious and hearty chili recipes that are perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
From classic beef to spicy turkey, smoky chipotle to paleo-friendly options, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering no-bean chili recipes to spice up your meal routine. Whether you’re looking for a keto-friendly option or something a little more adventurous, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your slow cooker or Instant Pot and get ready to cozy up with a bowl of goodness.
Classic Beef No Bean Chili
Classic Beef No Bean Chili Recipe
This hearty, comforting chili recipe is a staple of American cuisine, perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing party. With its rich beef flavor and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or other desired add-ins
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the beef broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Turkey No Bean Chili
This recipe makes a bold and flavorful chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in. With the addition of ground turkey, it’s also a great option for those looking to mix up their protein sources.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, shredded cheese, and crushed tortilla chips for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Slow Cooker No Bean Chili
This classic slow cooker chili recipe is a staple for any gathering or cozy night in. With tender ground beef, rich tomato flavor, and a hint of spice, this no-bean chili is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian No Bean Chili with Lentils
This comforting recipe is perfect for a chilly evening, packed with the goodness of lentils and a medley of vegetables. With no beans in sight, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Keto-Friendly No Bean Chili
This hearty and flavorful chili recipe is a twist on the classic, minus the beans. Made with ground beef, vegetables, and spices, this dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of mixed bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot No Bean Chili
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful no-bean chili recipe that’s ready in under an hour using your Instant Pot! This classic dish is a staple for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups of diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups of beef broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Smoky Chipotle No Bean Chili
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of chipotle peppers, smoky bacon, and tender beef to create a hearty, no-bean chili that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the ground beef, chipotle peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
6. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Paleo No Bean Chili
This hearty and flavorful Paleo no bean chili is a game-changer for those looking for a bean-free, paleo-friendly alternative to traditional chili. Made with tender ground beef, rich vegetables, and aromatic spices, this recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup coconut aminos (or paleo-friendly alternative)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the canned diced tomatoes and coconut aminos to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ground Chicken No Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This ground chicken no-bean version is a twist on the classic, packed with tender chunks of chicken and a rich tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground chicken in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Sweet Potato No Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe is a twist on the classic, featuring roasted sweet potatoes instead of beans. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or vegetarian option of your choice)
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add roasted sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican-Inspired No Bean Chili
A flavorful and hearty chili recipe that skips the beans and adds a boost of Mexican flair with ground beef, tomatoes, and spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ No Bean Chili
This recipe brings a twist to traditional chili by swapping out beans for tender chunks of pork and smoky barbecue flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground pork in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and BBQ sauce.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Chicken No Bean Chili
A comforting and flavorful twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines tender chicken with a rich white sauce, creating a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the cumin, paprika, heavy cream, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Low-Carb No Bean Chili
This hearty low-carb chili recipe is a twist on the classic, swapping out beans for extra vegetables and rich flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and chili powder. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer the chili for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Zesty Lime No Bean Chili
A refreshing twist on traditional chili, this zesty lime version is perfect for a warm-weather meal or as a unique addition to your fall and winter menus. This recipe skips the beans in favor of added texture from sweet potatoes and corn.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the sweet potatoes, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in the lime juice and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Beef No Bean Chili
This rich and satisfying chili recipe combines tender beef, crispy bacon, and a depth of flavor that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the grease behind.
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until translucent.
3. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned.
4. Add the garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
5. Stir in the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
6. Simmer the chili for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Vegan No Bean Chili with Quinoa
This hearty vegan chili is a twist on the classic recipe, swapping out beans for nutritious quinoa and packed with flavor from roasted vegetables. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups chopped mushrooms
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers, mushrooms, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
6. Serve quinoa topped with chili and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Five-Ingredient No Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe is a staple for any busy household. With only five ingredients, it’s easy to whip up a delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of ketchup
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of chili powder
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Once the beef is fully cooked, add in the diced tomatoes, ketchup, and water. Stir to combine.
3. Add the chili powder and stir to distribute evenly.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people
Summary
Get ready for a flavorful and easy meal solution! This collection of 18 no-bean chili recipes offers a variety of options to suit any taste or dietary preference. From classic beef to spicy turkey, slow cooker to instant pot, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for vegetarian, vegan, paleo, keto, or low-carb options, these delicious and easy-to-make chilies are perfect for busy weeknights. With a range of flavors and ingredients, you’ll never get bored with the same old chili recipe again.
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