Texas No Beans Chili

This Texas No Beans Chili is the perfect dish for any occasion, from game day to family dinners. Packed with flavor from a rich blend of spices and tender ground beef, this chili will warm your heart and satisfy your appetite. Its thick and hearty texture makes it a great comfort food, while the absence of beans keeps it classic and true to Texas tradition. Get ready to enjoy a bold and satisfying meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Spices: This chili features an authentic blend of spices that brings the taste of Texas right to your kitchen.
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal even on busy nights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with toppings like cheese, jalapenos, or sour cream for a customizable dining experience.
• Hearty and Filling: The generous amount of ground beef ensures everyone leaves the table satisfied.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal option for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing Texas No Beans Chili. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well, ensuring even cooking for your chili.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up meat and stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of dicing onions, peppers, and garlic.

Ingredients

This thick and hearty No Bean Chili Recipe is deeply flavored thanks to an authentic blend of spices, plenty of tomatoes, and a generous portion of ground beef. You’ll love the sizzling Southwest flavor of this meaty Texas chili recipe!

For the Chili Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds ground beef (you can also use ground turkey)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 yellow onion (finely diced)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced fire roasted tomatoes (undrained)
• 2 cups low sodium beef broth (you can also use 1 cup beer + 1 cup beef broth)
• 1 bay leaf

For Garnish

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Seeded and thinly sliced jalapenos
• Sour cream
• Chopped cilantro

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How to Make Texas No Beans Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat oil in a Dutch oven set over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the hot oil; season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon while it cooks.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Vegetables

Once browned, stir in the onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Continue to cook for about 4 minutes or until veggies are softened.

Step 3: Mix in Seasonings and Tomato Paste

Stir in chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, and paprika. Add tomato paste; stir to combine and cook for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.

Step 5: Cook

Add bay leaf and bring chili to a steady simmer. Reduce heat; continue simmering for 25-30 minutes while stirring occasionally. If desired, let it cook longer by adding more liquid as needed.

Step 6: Finish

Remove from heat. Discard bay leaf. Taste chili for salt and pepper; adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle your no-bean chili into bowls. Garnish with cheese, jalapenos, sour cream, and cilantro before serving!

How to Serve Texas No Beans Chili

Serving Texas No Beans Chili is an opportunity to elevate this hearty dish. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, there are many ways to enhance your chili experience.

Garnish with Fresh Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – A classic topping that adds creaminess and richness.
• Jalapenos – For those who like it spicy, sliced jalapenos add heat.
• Sour Cream – A dollop on top helps balance the spice and adds a cool contrast.
• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor and color to your bowl.

Serve with Crunchy Sides

• Cornbread – This sweet and fluffy bread pairs perfectly with chili and can soak up the delicious broth.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips are great for scooping up chili or enjoying on the side.
• Fritos® Corn Chips – These add an extra crunch and salty flavor that complements the chili well.

Pair with Refreshing Beverages

• Iced Tea – A classic Southern drink that refreshes the palate between bites.
• Beer – A cold beer can enhance the flavors of your Texas No Beans Chili while adding to the casual vibe.

How to Perfect Texas No Beans Chili

To create the ultimate Texas No Beans Chili, consider these simple yet effective tips. Each one will help you achieve a rich and flavorful dish.

• Use Quality Meat – Opt for high-quality ground beef for better flavor and texture. Grass-fed options can provide a richer taste.
• Brown the Meat Well – Take your time browning the beef; this develops deep flavors through caramelization.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the heat by varying the amount of chili powder or adding fresh peppers according to your preference.
• Let It Simmer Longer – If possible, allow your chili to simmer for several hours. This melds the flavors beautifully and enhances richness.
• Taste as You Go – Always sample your chili while cooking. Adjust seasoning as needed for a balanced flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Texas No Beans Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Texas No Beans Chili can enhance the meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty dish well.

1. Cornbread – Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread is perfect for soaking up every drop of chili.
2. Coleslaw – The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to rich chili flavors.
3. Rice – Serving chili over rice creates a filling meal while absorbing all those tasty juices.
4. Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread offers a savory side that’s perfect for dipping into your chili.
5. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes can serve as a base for spooning hot chili over them, creating a fulfilling dish.
6. Pickled Vegetables – The acidity from pickled veggies can brighten up each bite of rich chili, adding complexity to flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Texas No Beans Chili, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the meat properly can lead to a bland chili. Always take the time to brown your ground beef until it’s nicely caramelized for a richer flavor.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the onions and peppers for too long can result in mushy veggies. Aim for a tender texture without losing their shape and crunch.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your chili before serving can leave it underseasoned. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper levels at the end of cooking for optimal flavor.
• Using low-quality canned tomatoes: Poor-quality tomatoes can affect the overall taste of your chili. Opt for high-quality fire-roasted tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
• Ignoring simmering time: Skipping or rushing the simmering process can compromise the chili’s depth of flavor. Allow it to simmer for at least 25 minutes, but longer is even better if time allows.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Texas No Beans Chili will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Texas No Beans Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Chili can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Texas No Beans Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through, about 5–10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Texas No Beans Chili different?

Texas No Beans Chili is unique because it focuses solely on meat and spices without any beans. This results in a richer texture and more robust flavors compared to bean-based chilis.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a fantastic alternative that works well in this recipe while keeping it leaner. Just ensure you season it adequately.

How spicy is Texas No Beans Chili?

The spiciness depends on how much chili powder and jalapeños you use. You can adjust these ingredients based on your personal heat preference.

Can I prepare Texas No Beans Chili in advance?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better after sitting for a day, allowing the flavors to meld together. Simply store it in the refrigerator or freeze it as needed.

Final Thoughts

Texas No Beans Chili is a hearty dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Its rich flavors and thick consistency make it incredibly satisfying. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite toppings or spice levels. Give it a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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Texas No Beans Chili

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Texas No Beans Chili is a deliciously hearty dish that embodies the spirit of Texas cuisine. With tender ground beef simmered in a rich blend of spices and tomatoes, this chili is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a game day gathering or a cozy family dinner. The absence of beans keeps it true to tradition, offering a thick and satisfying texture that will warm you from the inside out. Customize your bowl with toppings like shredded cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for an extra layer of flavor. This easy-to-make recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 yellow onion
• 1 green bell pepper
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 can (28 ounces) fire roasted diced tomatoes
• 2 cups low sodium beef broth

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Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown until fully cooked.
2. Stir in diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add chili powder, stir in tomato paste, and cook for an additional few minutes.
4. Mix in diced tomatoes and beef broth; scrape up browned bits from the pot.
5. Add a bay leaf and bring to a simmer. Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove bay leaf before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Texas

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For added richness, let the chili simmer longer if time allows. Use high-quality canned tomatoes for enhanced flavor. Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef if you're looking for a leaner option.