As I lifted the lid off my trusty crockpot, a deliciously savory aroma wafted through the kitchen, transforming my home into a cozy retreat. Welcome to my Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans—a heartwarming dish that marries convenience with flavor for those weeknights when time slips away. This easy meal prep solution not only satisfies cravings for comfort food but also aligns perfectly with your low-carb lifestyle. Packed with protein and rich in spices, it’s an enticing crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or meal prep sessions. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of warmth that’s ready when you are? Let’s get cooking!

aa81d421 f501 4185 b2ce b066077829fbtr cwaftv

Why Make This Low Carb Chili?

Simplicity: This recipe comes together effortlessly in your crockpot, making it ideal for busy days when you crave a hearty meal without the fuss.

Flavor-Packed: Infused with aromatic spices, it delivers a robust taste that competes with traditional chili recipes, leaving you feeling satisfied without the carbs.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for a quick lunch during the week. Pair it with a side of Parmesan Green Beans for a complete meal!

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize it with your favorite protein or veggies, ensuring it fits your personal taste and dietary needs.

Family Favorite: Its rich flavor caters to both low-carb followers and those who simply love chili, making it a sure hit around the dinner table.

Low Carb Chili Ingredients

For the Base
Ground Beef – A hearty protein that creates a filling chili; swap with ground turkey for a lighter option.
Italian Sausage – Adds a spicy kick and rich flavor; can substitute with chicken sausage for fewer calories.
Onion – Enhances overall flavor; use shallots for a milder taste if desired.

For the Veggies
Bell Peppers – Provides sweetness and texture; consider zucchini for a lower-carb option.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth; fresh cloves are best, but garlic powder works too.
Cabbage – Adds crunch and volume to the chili; no substitute recommended as it enhances texture.

For the Sauce
Diced Tomatoes – A flavorful base; opt for no-sugar-added varieties to keep it low carb.
Tomato Paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor; use less for a milder taste if preferred.
Beef Broth – Adds richness; vegetable broth is a great low-carb substitute for a vegetarian version.

For the Seasoning
Chili Powder – The star spice for that classic chili flavor; adjust according to your heat preference.
Cumin – Complementary spice that adds earthiness; try smoked paprika for a different profile.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; always taste before seasoning further.

This Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans is perfect for cozy nights, balancing comfort with delicious nutrition. Enjoy each bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans

Step 1: Prepare Your Meats
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of Italian sausage. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until both meats are browned and cooked through. This extra step enhances the flavor profile of the Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans, so make sure to break the meat apart as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the skillet aside.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
While the meats are cooking, chop 1 onion, 2 bell peppers (any color you like), and 3 cloves of garlic. Aim for bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Once your veggies are prepped, place them directly into the bottom of your crockpot. Their vibrant colors and fresh scents will set the stage for a delightful chili.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
To the crockpot with vegetables, add the cooked meats, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 cup of beef broth. Make sure everything is evenly distributed within the crockpot. This combination will create a rich, flavorful sauce as it cooks, making your Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans deeply satisfying.

Step 4: Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the spices coat all the ingredients evenly. These seasonings are essential for that comforting chili flavor, so don’t hesitate to adjust them to your heat preference.

Step 5: Set the Crockpot
Cover the crockpot and set it to low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Allowing the Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans to simmer gently will meld the flavors beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when the vegetables are tender and the entire chili is bubbling delightfully.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooking is complete, ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, like shredded cheese or green onions if desired. The vibrant colors and aromatic scents will entice everyone to dig in. This Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans is perfect served alone or alongside cauliflower rice for a delightful meal.

aa81d421 f501 4185 b2ce b066077829fbbl aizuur

What to Serve with Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans

Cozy up your dinner table with delightful sides that enhance every bite of this rich and hearty chili.

  • Cauliflower Rice: A fluffy, low-carb alternative to traditional rice that pairs perfectly, soaking up all the savory flavors of your chili.
  • Avocado Slices: Creamy and cool, avocado adds a refreshing contrast to the robust spices in your chili while delivering healthy fats. Pair it with a drizzle of lime for an extra zing!
  • Cheddar Cheese: Melting cheese on top brings a creamy texture that balances the flavors, making every spoonful even more satisfying.
  • Steamed Broccoli: Its slight crunch and nutritional benefits create a fantastic complement, balancing the richness of the chili without adding carbs.
  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette refreshes the palate and adds crispness to your meal, making it feel lighter.
  • Greek Yogurt: Use as a tart and tangy substitute for sour cream, adding a smooth finish that pairs delightfully with the chili’s heat.

Make Ahead Options

These Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans options are perfect for meal prep, saving time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onion, bell peppers, garlic) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance. You can also brown the ground beef and Italian sausage a day ahead, letting the flavors meld, then refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble. When you’re set to serve, simply combine all prepped ingredients in the crockpot and set to cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Enjoy a delicious meal that’s just as comforting and flavor-packed, all while fitting into your busy schedule!

How to Store and Freeze Low Carb Chili

Fridge: Store any leftover Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze portions of chili in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to bring back its creamy texture.

Meal Prep: This chili is perfect for meal prep! Make a double batch for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week, keeping your low-carb lifestyle on track.

Expert Tips for Low Carb Chili

  • Brown the Meats: Browning the ground beef and Italian sausage adds deep flavor to your Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans, enhancing the overall taste.

  • Chop Evenly: Ensure your vegetables are chopped into similar sizes for even cooking; this guarantees a delightful texture throughout.

  • Taste and Adjust: Always taste your chili before serving—this allows you to tweak the seasoning perfectly to suit your palate.

  • Avoid Overfilling: When using the crockpot, do not exceed the recommended capacity; this ensures even cooking and prevents overflow.

  • Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the chili to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving; this lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing your dish’s enjoyment.

Low Carb Chili Recipe Variations

Feel free to tailor this comforting dish to your heart’s delight, allowing flavors and ingredients to dance together in perfect harmony.

  • Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to heat things up, perfect for those who crave a fiery bite.

  • Vegetarian Twist: Swap the meats for a medley of mushrooms and lentils, crafting a vegetarian wonder without sacrificing flavor.

  • Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika and a splash of liquid smoke to enrich your chili with a delightful, barbecue-style essence.

  • Sweetness Boost: Toss in a few chopped sweet potatoes or carrots for a hint of natural sweetness, balancing out the spiciness beautifully.

  • Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano towards the end of cooking for an aromatic touch that brightens every spoonful.

  • Keto-Friendly Thickener: Blend cauliflower or zucchini to thicken the chili while keeping it low-carb—silky and satisfying!

  • Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream before serving for a velvety finish that adds an irresistible richness.

  • Chili Variations: Try different chili spice blends or add beans like black soybeans or kidney beans if you’re feeling adventurous and not strictly adhering to low-carb.

These suggestions allow for creative variations that enhance your Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans. For a delightful side, pair it with some Broccoli Cauliflower Salad or a serving of cheesy Shrimp Fried Rice for a complete meal!

aa81d421 f501 4185 b2ce b066077829fbbr dlhscc

Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans Recipe FAQs

What kind of ground meat should I use?
You can use ground beef for a hearty flavor or Italian sausage for added spice. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey works beautifully and still delivers a satisfying dish.

How long can I store the Low Carb Chili in the fridge?
Leftover chili can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the chili is cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze Low Carb Chili?
Absolutely! Portion out the chili in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it will last for 2-3 months in the freezer. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little broth if necessary for a creamy texture.

What should I do if my chili is too spicy?
If spicy is not your preference, you can modify it by adding a little extra tomato sauce or diced tomatoes to dilute the heat. Alternatively, include a teaspoon of sugar or honey to balance out the spiciness, but remember this might add a few carbs.

Can I modify the recipe to accommodate allergies?
Of course! For dairy-free options, omit cheese toppings or substitute with non-dairy cheese. If you’re concerned about ingredient allergies, always double-check labels for added sugars and allergens in processed ingredients like broth or diced tomatoes.

What should I pair with the Low Carb Chili?
For a balanced meal, serve the chili alongside a fresh salad or pair it with my Parmesan Green Beans. You can also enjoy it with cauliflower rice to keep the meal low-carb while adding some volume.

Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans

Delicious Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans for Cozy Nights

A comforting Low Carb Chili Recipe Without Beans, packed with flavor and perfect for easy meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 pound Ground Beef can substitute with ground turkey
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage can substitute with chicken sausage
  • 1 Onion or shallots for milder taste
For the Veggies
  • 2 Bell Peppers any color
  • 3 Cloves of Garlic fresh is best
  • 1 Cabbage adds crunch and volume
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes no-sugar-added varieties recommended
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste use less for milder taste
  • 1 cup Beef Broth vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder adjust according to your heat preference
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin try smoked paprika for variation
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • skillet
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Chop onion, bell peppers, and garlic into bite-sized pieces and place in the crockpot.
  3. Add cooked meats, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
  4. Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are coated.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until vegetables are tender.
  6. Once done, ladle into bowls and garnish with toppings of choice. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Brown the meats for enhanced flavor and ensure even chopping of vegetables for best texture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!