Chili lovers rejoice! Who says you need beans to make a delicious and hearty bowl of chili? Today, we’re shaking things up with 18 mouth-watering no-bean chili recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic beef to spicy turkey, vegetarian lentil options, and even keto-friendly and paleo-inspired variations, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting slow-cooked meal or a quick weeknight dinner solution, these no-bean chilies are sure to hit the spot. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and packed with flavor, so you can focus on enjoying your meal rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of our 18 recipe options, featuring a range of ingredients, cooking methods, and heat levels. Whether you like it mild or wild, there’s a no-bean chili recipe on this list that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Classic No Bean Beef Chili
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this classic beef chili recipe is a staple of American comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
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 diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spicy Turkey No Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This Spicy Turkey No Bean Chili is a twist on the classic, with a kick of heat from diced jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 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
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, jalapeños, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker No Bean Chili
This hearty slow cooker chili is a classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped tomatoes
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and add the chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in the water and cover the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegetarian No Bean Chili with Lentils
Warm up with this hearty, plant-based chili that’s packed with flavor and nutrition! This recipe is a perfect blend of tender lentils, savory vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups chopped mushrooms
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and mushrooms; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Keto-Friendly No Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe skips the beans and focuses on rich flavors from ground beef, tomatoes, and spices, all while staying within keto guidelines. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a satisfying meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 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 with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cumin. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
Cooking Time: 30-60 minutes
Paleo No Bean Chili
Paleo No Bean Chili: A Hearty and Delicious Option
This Paleo No Bean Chili recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional chili, made without beans to cater to those who follow the Paleo diet. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
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 onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instant Pot No Bean Chili
This no-bean chili recipe is a twist on the classic comfort food dish, packed with flavor and nutrients. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying meal in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Chipotle No Bean Chili
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional chili! This Smoky Chipotle No Bean Chili recipe is perfect for those who prefer a meaty, smoky flavor without the beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
5. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken No Bean Chili
Ground Chicken No Bean Chili Recipe
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day, this Ground Chicken No Bean Chili is a twist on the classic dish. By substituting ground chicken for traditional beef or turkey, you’ll get a leaner and more tender result.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 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
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook 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, and red bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Low-Carb No Bean Chili
Savor a hearty and flavorful chili that’s perfect for those following a low-carb diet or simply looking to reduce their bean intake. This recipe replaces traditional beans with nutrient-dense veggies, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chopped mushrooms
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 1/4 cup water
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 onion, garlic, bell peppers, and mushrooms to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the chili cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Sausage No Bean Chili
Spicy Sausage No Bean Chili Recipe
Get ready to heat up with this bold and flavorful chili recipe that’s packed with spicy sausage and without the beans!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Five-Ingredient No Bean Chili
Quickly warm up with this flavorful chili recipe that’s surprisingly simple to make. With only five ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a hearty bowl in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 packet of chili seasoning
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 diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and chili seasoning to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the diced red bell pepper to the pot and stir again.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Lime No Bean Chili
A refreshing twist on traditional chili, this Zesty Lime No Bean Chili is perfect for a warm weather gathering or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of juicy chicken, zesty lime juice, and savory spices will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken broth, water, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ-Inspired No Bean Chili
Get ready for a flavorful and hearty chili that’s perfect for any occasion! This BBQ-inspired recipe is bean-free, so you can enjoy all the classic flavors without the beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
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 and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30-40 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bacon Lover’s No Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe is perfect for those who love the smoky flavor of bacon and don’t want to compromise on taste by adding beans. With a rich and creamy texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 diced bacon and cook until crispy, then remove from the pot with a slotted spoon.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Return the crispy bacon to the pot and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato No Bean Chili
This hearty and comforting chili recipe replaces traditional beans with roasted sweet potatoes, adding natural sweetness and creamy texture to this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast sweet potatoes in the oven for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces, until browned.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Add roasted sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Simmer for 30 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes (45 minutes for sweet potatoes + 30 minutes to simmer).
White Chicken No Bean Chili
This recipe makes a deliciously creamy and flavorful white chicken chili that’s perfect for a cozy evening or as a hearty lunch. With no beans in sight, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the chicken, onions, garlic, and bell pepper over medium-high heat until the chicken is browned.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chicken is cooked through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican-Style No Bean Chili
This hearty chili recipe skips the beans and packs a punch with flavor, thanks to ground beef, tomatoes, and spices inspired by Mexico. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a tailgating party!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves 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 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and paprika; cook 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let chili cook for 30 minutes or longer, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Serve: With your choice of toppings!
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 quick and easy no-bean chili recipes! From classic beef to spicy turkey, vegetarian lentils, and even keto-friendly options, there’s something for everyone. Try our slow cooker recipe, Instant Pot version, or smoky chipotle-inspired dish. For a twist, go for the BBQ-inspired or zesty lime flavors. Whether you’re looking for low-carb, paleo, or simply a five-ingredient meal, we’ve got you covered. With so many options, you’ll never get bored of chili again!