Texas No Beans Chili

This Texas No Beans Chili is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, this dish captures the essence of traditional Texas chili without the beans. It’s easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, making it a must-try recipe for chili lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Depth: The combination of spices and fire-roasted tomatoes gives this chili an authentic Southwest taste.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe allows you to whip up a hearty meal in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether served alone or topped with your favorite garnishes, this chili adapts to your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This Texas No Beans Chili keeps well in the fridge and can be frozen for later use, making it great for meal planning.
• Family-Friendly: The robust flavors appeal to both adults and kids, ensuring everyone will enjoy it at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to make your Texas No Beans Chili perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering, it holds heat well and allows for flavors to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring a smooth mix of ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables like onions and peppers, saving you time in preparation.

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 Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds ground beef (you can also use ground turkey)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 1 yellow onion (finely diced)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

Spices & Other Ingredients

• 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 beef broth + 1 cup water)
• 1 bay leaf

Garnishes

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

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 as it cooks.

Step 2: Add the 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 the Seasonings and Tomato Paste

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

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced fire roasted tomatoes along with the beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance flavor.

Step 5: Cook

Add in the bay leaf. Bring the chili to a steady simmer; reduce heat slightly. Let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes while stirring occasionally. If desired, you can let it cook longer (up to 4 hours), adding extra liquid if necessary.

Step 6: Finish

Remove from heat once done. Take out the bay leaf and taste; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle your no-bean chili into bowls. Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, sliced jalapenos, sour cream, and fresh cilantro as desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Texas No Beans Chili

Serving Texas No Beans Chili is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. A hearty bowl of chili can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its taste and appeal.

Classic Garnishes

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the spicy chili.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the heat and adds a cool contrast.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro introduces a burst of freshness and color to your dish.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Serve alongside moist cornbread for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make for a fun topping or side that brings additional crunch.
• Jalapeños: Freshly sliced jalapeños add an extra kick for those who love spice.

Serving Styles

• In a Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread to serve the chili inside for an edible serving vessel.
• Over Rice: Spoon over fluffy white rice for a heartier meal that absorbs the rich sauce.

How to Perfect Texas No Beans Chili

To create the perfect Texas No Beans Chili, focus on balancing flavors and achieving the desired consistency. Here are some tips to elevate your chili game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef enhance the overall flavor profile of your chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste while cooking and adjust spices according to your preference for heat and flavor.
• Let It Simmer Longer: For deeper flavors, allow your chili to simmer longer; just ensure you have enough liquid.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to mix up garnishes; try avocado slices or crispy onions for different textures.
• Layer Flavors Gradually: Add spices at different stages during cooking for more complex flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Texas No Beans Chili

Pairing sides with Texas No Beans Chili can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty dish well.

1. Cornbread: Sweet or savory, cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili, soaking up the delicious juices.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the chili.
3. Rice: Fluffy white rice serves as a great base that can absorb all the flavorful broth from your chili.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies add smoky flavor and nutrition to your plate.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for a satisfying side that complements the chili’s boldness.
6. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a fresh taste and texture contrast, perfect for balancing spices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Texas No Beans Chili can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for the best results.

• Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth or water can dilute your chili’s rich flavor. Stick to the recommended amounts and adjust only if needed during cooking.
• Skipping the browning step: Failing to properly brown the meat can result in a less flavorful chili. Always take the time to brown your ground beef well for depth of flavor.
• Not seasoning early enough: Adding spices too late can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Incorporate spices while cooking to enhance their flavors throughout the dish.
• Overcooking: While simmering is essential, overcooking can lead to mushy vegetables. Monitor cooking times closely for the perfect texture.
• Ignoring garnishes: Neglecting toppings like cheese and jalapenos can make your chili bland. Garnish generously to elevate the overall taste and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Texas No Beans Chili in airtight containers.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Texas No Beans Chili

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Texas No Beans Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake chili in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Texas No Beans Chili.

What makes Texas No Beans Chili different?

Texas No Beans Chili focuses on meat and spices without beans, delivering a hearty texture and robust flavor unique to traditional recipes.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that provides a lighter option while still maintaining delicious flavor in your Texas No Beans Chili.

How can I spice it up?

To add heat, consider using more jalapenos or including spicy chili powder or cayenne pepper during cooking. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This chili stores well and tastes even better after resting, making it an excellent choice for meal prep throughout the week.

How do I thicken my chili?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, let your chili simmer uncovered longer or stir in some cornmeal or masa harina towards the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Texas No Beans Chili recipe is not just hearty and flavorful; it also offers versatility with various customization options. You can easily adjust spiciness or incorporate different toppings based on personal preference. Try it out today for a comforting meal that warms you from within!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Texas No Beans Chili

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

This Texas No Beans Chili is the ultimate comfort dish, packed with rich flavors and a hearty texture that will satisfy any appetite. Perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner, this chili showcases an authentic blend of spices and quality beef, creating a delicious meal that everyone will love. With no beans to distract from the robust meatiness, it’s a true Texan classic that is both easy to prepare and versatile in serving options. Enjoy it on its own or topped with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese and fresh cilantro for an extra flavor boost.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 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 beef broth + 1 cup water)
• 1 bay leaf

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned.
2. Stir in onions, bell pepper, and garlic; cook for about 4 minutes until softened.
3. Mix in chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and tomato paste; cook for another 3 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth; scrape up any browned bits from the pot.
5. Include the bay leaf, bring to a simmer, reduce heat slightly, and let simmer for 25 to 30 minutes.
6. Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Texan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 85mg