This No-Bean Chili is hearty and comforting! Packed with ground meat, rich tomatoes, and spices, it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly days!
Who needs beans when you have all that flavor? I love serving it with cheese on top and some crunchy crackers. It’s a winner for sure! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient! You can use ground turkey or even chicken as a leaner alternative. For a vegetarian option, swap in lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add great flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder and garlic powder instead. Shallots can also be a milder option!
Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: Canned tomatoes are a time-saver! If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to chop them up and use them instead. For a richer flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the chili. You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth, or even just water in a pinch. For more flavor, try using homemade broth if you have it.
How Do I Make Sure My Chili is Full of Flavor?
Building flavor is key in this no-bean chili! Here’s how to amp it up:
- Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re soft, as this enhances their flavor.
- Don’t skip toasting the spices! Cooking them for 1-2 minutes releases their oils, giving your chili a robust taste.
- Let it simmer! The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld together. Just keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.
- Adjust the seasoning towards the end! Tasting as you go helps ensure the right balance of flavors.
Following these steps will boost the deliciousness of your No-Bean Chili! Enjoy it with a sprinkle of cheese for that extra touch!
How to Make No-Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons 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)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This No-Bean Chili takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30-40 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 50 minutes making this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your chili!
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute, stirring until it becomes fragrant. This will really enhance the aroma of your chili!
3. Brown the Meat:
Now, it’s time for the ground beef! Add it to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 7 to 8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it before moving on.
4. Toast the Spices:
Stir in all the spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if you like it spicy!). Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices slightly, which will deepen their flavors.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth to your pot. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring your chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the chili thicken and all the flavors mingle beautifully!
7. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot chili in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. You can add optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor and texture!
Enjoy this comforting, hearty No-Bean Chili that showcases rich meat and tomato goodness without beans! Perfect for cozy meals and gatherings! 🌶️🍅
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will work perfectly in this chili. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it may cook a bit faster than beef.
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chili up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors often deepen as it sits, making it even tastier when reheated!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Are Good Toppings for No-Bean Chili?
For a tasty finish, top your chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or fresh avocado. Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch too! Feel free to get creative with your favorite toppings!
