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Hearty No Beans Chili


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  • Author: Julie
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This hearty No Beans Chili is a bold and meaty dish packed with ground beef, peppers, spices, and a rich tomato base—perfect for game day, cold nights, or whenever you’re craving a satisfying bowl of chili without the beans!


Ingredients

Scale

For the chili:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef

  • 1 white onion, diced

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced

  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 2 tablespoons mild chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • 6 ounces tomato paste

  • 2 tablespoons cornmeal (to thicken)

  • 1 (28-ounce) can chunky tomato puree or diced tomatoes

  • 2 cups beef stock

For the toppings (optional):

  • Sliced scallions

  • Sour cream

  • Grated cheddar cheese

  • Tortilla chips

  • Diced avocado

  • Diced onion


Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

  • Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

  • Stir in diced onion, green pepper, and jalapeño. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

  • Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  • Mix in cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat and veggies.

  • Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.

  • Add cornmeal, tomato puree, and beef stock. Stir well to combine.

  • Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

 

  • Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

To make it spicier, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

This chili freezes well—store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

For a smoky twist, add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American