When it comes to comforting, warming, and delicious meals, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of chili. And while beans are a classic addition to many chili recipes, we know that not everyone is a fan of the legume. Fear not, bean-free friends! We’ve got you covered with these 18 simple and easy no bean chili recipes, featuring a variety of flavors and cooking methods to suit every taste.
From classic comfort foods to spicy kickers, these no bean chili recipes are perfect for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something bold and smoky or mild and creamy, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to hit the spot.
Classic Easy No Bean Chili
A hearty and comforting chili recipe that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This no-bean version is perfect for those who prefer a meatier, more rustic take on the classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, and cumin. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Ground Beef No Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe packs a punch with its bold flavors and spicy kick. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight meal, this no-bean version is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Easy No Bean Chili
A hearty and comforting meal that’s ready when you need it. This simple recipe skips the beans, but still packs a flavorful punch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped tomatoes
– 1 cup of beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the chopped tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Keto-Friendly No Bean Chili
This recipe is a twist on traditional chili, using ground beef and a blend of vegetables to create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for the keto diet. With only 5g of net carbs per serving, this dish is a great option for those looking for a low-carb alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the canned tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings per recipe
Paleo No Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s free from beans and packed with paleo-friendly ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
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. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, chicken broth, chili powder, and cumin. 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 and the meat is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Easy No Bean Chili
A hearty and comforting chili recipe that’s ready in no time! This no-bean version is a twist on the classic, using ground beef and vegetables to create a rich and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
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 onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Turkey No Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. This turkey-based chili is packed with rich flavors and tender texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, 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 tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian No Bean Chili with Mushrooms
This recipe makes a deliciously flavorful vegetarian chili that’s packed with nutritious mushrooms and doesn’t contain beans for those looking for an alternative. Perfect as a main course or side dish, this chili is easy to prepare and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, mushrooms, and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Stir in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and chili powder. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle No Bean Chili
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this spicy and smoky no-bean chili recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this hearty dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chipotle peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, smoked paprika, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Spicy No Bean Chili
Sweet and Spicy No Bean Chili Recipe
A twist on traditional chili, this sweet and spicy recipe packs a punch without adding beans to the mix.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, water, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Bring the mixture 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
Low-Carb No Bean Chili
Summary: A hearty, flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a low-carb diet. This recipe replaces traditional beans with cauliflower to keep carbs in check.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of cauliflower florets
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of low-carb tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cauliflower florets, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the low-carb tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Stovetop No Bean Chili
Looking for a hearty and comforting meal that’s ready in no time? This stovetop chili recipe is perfect for a quick fix!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
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, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute.
4. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, and chili powder. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon-Infused No Bean Chili
Rich and savory, this bacon-infused chili skips the beans but packs a punch with smoky flavors. Perfect for a cozy night in or a game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy, then remove from pot.
2. Add the ground beef to the same pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, followed by the minced garlic.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tex-Mex No Bean Chili
Get ready to spice up your meal with this flavorful no-bean chili recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a game-day gathering. This Tex-Mex twist on traditional chili is packed with bold flavors and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced onions for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth; 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: 25-30 minutes
White Chicken No Bean Chili
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional chili, this White Chicken No Bean Chili is a delicious and comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked chicken back to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and let chili simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Lime No Bean Chili
This vibrant and flavorful chili is perfect for a warm-weather gathering or a comforting meal on a chilly day. The zesty lime and spices add a unique twist to the classic recipe, making it a standout at any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, crushed tomatoes, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Lover’s No Bean Chili
Savor the rich flavors of this hearty, garlic-infused chili that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. This no-bean recipe lets the bold flavors of garlic and spices shine through.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup of beef broth
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 minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the diced onion, chopped tomatoes, red bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Pour in the beef broth and 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: 25-30 minutes
BBQ-Style No Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe skips the beans and focuses on rich, smoky flavors reminiscent of a backyard BBQ. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups ketchup
– 1 cup tomato paste
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add water and BBQ sauce; stir well.
6. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 18 simple and easy no-bean chili recipes! From classic to spicy, and from slow cooker to instant pot, there’s something for everyone. Try our take on traditional chili with ground beef or turkey, or go vegan with mushroom-based option. Spice things up with smoky chipotle or zesty lime, or keep it mild with garlic lover’s or BBQ-style. And don’t forget the keto-friendly and paleo options for a healthier twist. Whether you’re in a hurry or have all day to simmer, these recipes will satisfy your chili cravings!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
