There’s nothing quite like coming home after a long day and having a warm, hearty bowl of Keto Chili waiting for you. This savory dish has become a staple in low-carb households for good reason – it’s incredibly satisfying while keeping your carb count in check. The rich aroma of simmering beef, the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables, and the perfect blend of smoky spices create an irresistible meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What makes this Keto Chili truly special is how it maintains all the deep, complex flavors of traditional chili while cleverly eliminating the high-carb ingredients. This recipe proves that you don’t need beans or added sugars to create a mouthwatering chili that satisfies even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re strictly following a ketogenic lifestyle or simply looking for a healthier comfort food option, this Keto Chili delivers on both flavor and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Chili
- ✅ Perfect low carb keto chili with ground beef that won’t kick you out of ketosis
- ✅ Works beautifully as an easy slow cooker keto chili – just set it and forget it!
- ✅ This hearty keto chili for cold weather brings warmth and comfort to winter evenings
- ✅ Makes an excellent spicy keto chili for meal prep that tastes even better the next day
- ✅ Naturally gluten-free keto chili with spices that everyone can enjoy
- ✅ The ultimate no bean keto chili for weight loss that keeps you satisfied for hours
- ✅ A versatile one pot keto chili for busy weeknights when time is limited
Ingredients for Keto Chili
The secret to amazing Keto Chili starts with quality ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this flavor-packed dish:
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended for best flavor)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, sliced green onions
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Meat options: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or try a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor.
- Heat level: Add an extra jalapeño or include ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a spicier Keto Chili.
- For a dairy-free option: Skip the cheese topping and try this as a dairy-free keto chili with avocado garnish instead.
- Vegetable variations: Include diced zucchini or cauliflower florets for added nutrients and texture in your homemade keto chili with fresh vegetables.
How to Make Keto Chili – Step by Step
Step 1:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown for about 5-7 minutes until no pink remains.
Step 2:
If there’s excess fat, drain some but leave about 1-2 tablespoons in the pot for flavor.
Step 3:
Add the diced onion, green pepper, and jalapeño to the pot with the browned meat. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
Step 4:
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5:
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to slightly caramelize and coat the meat and vegetables.
Step 6:
Add chili powder, cumin, and salt. Stir to combine, allowing the spices to bloom in the heat for about 30 seconds.
Step 7:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients and scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 8:
Bring the Keto Chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 9:
Remove the lid and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes to allow the chili to thicken to your desired consistency.
Step 10:
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices according to your preference.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Keto Chili
- Low and slow wins the race: For the most flavorful recipe , simmer on low heat for up to 2 hours if you have the time. The flavors will develop and intensify beautifully.
- Prep ahead for convenience: Chop all vegetables in advance for a quick assembly of this one pot keto chili for busy weeknights.
- The secret ingredient: A splash of apple cider vinegar (about 1 tablespoon) added in the last 5 minutes of cooking brightens all the flavors without adding carbs.
- Thickness control: If your recipe is too thin, simmer uncovered longer. If it’s too thick, add a little more beef broth.
- Enhanced umami: Add 1 tablespoon of coconut aminos for a deeper flavor profile without adding significant carbs.
Best Ways to Serve Keto Chili
This versatilerecipe shines when served in creative ways:
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and diced avocado for a classic presentation.
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- Use as a topping for a baked keto-friendly “potato” made from roasted turnips.
- Fill hollowed-out bell peppers and bake for a stuffed pepper variation.
- Pair with our Keto Cheese Crackers for the perfect crunch factor.
For a complete meal, a simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the rich flavors of the Keto Chili perfectly.
Nutritional Information
This no bean recipefor weight loss is not only delicious but also fits perfectly into your keto macros. Per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 325 kcal
- Fat: 23g
- Protein: 22g
- Net Carbs: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Total Carbs: 7g
This makes it an excellent option for those tracking their macros carefully while following a ketogenic diet.
Storage & Leftovers
This spicy keto chili for meal prep stores beautifully, making it perfect for planning ahead:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. The flavors actually improve after freezing!
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if needed to restore consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! This easy slow cooker recipe adapts beautifully to a crockpot. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How many carbs are in recipe?
This recipe contains only 5g net carbs per serving, making it perfect for a ketogenic diet. The elimination of beans significantly reduces the carb count compared to traditional chili recipes.
What makes recipe different from regular chili?
Traditional chili typically contains beans which are high in carbs. This no bean recipe replaces them with more vegetables and meat, creating a hearty meal that’s keto-friendly while maintaining delicious chili flavor.
Can I make a milder version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the jalapeño and reduce the chili powder to 1 tablespoon for a milder version that’s still packed with flavor.
Conclusion
This Keto Chili proves that following a low-carb lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or your favorite comfort foods. Rich, hearty, and satisfying, it’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or gatherings with friends. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize the heat level and ingredients to suit your preferences while keeping it keto-friendly.
Whether you’re making it as an easy slow cookerrecipe for convenience or simmering it on the stovetop for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results. The next time you’re craving comfort food without the carbs, reach for this Keto Chili recipe – your taste buds and your body will thank you!
Have you tried making this Keto Chili yet? Share your experience or favorite toppings in the comments below!
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Keto Chili: The Ultimate Low-Carb Comfort Food
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a satisfying bowl of Keto Chili that combines rich beef flavors with fresh vegetables and smoky spices, without the high-carb ingredients. Perfect for a low-carb diet, this hearty chili delivers amazing taste while keeping your carb count in check.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended for best flavor)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, sliced green onions
Instructions
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown for about 5-7 minutes until no pink remains.
- If there’s excess fat, drain some but leave about 1-2 tablespoons in the pot for flavor.
- Add the diced onion, green pepper, and jalapeño to the pot with the browned meat. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to slightly caramelize and coat the meat and vegetables.
- Add chili powder, cumin, and salt. Stir to combine, allowing the spices to bloom in the heat for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients and scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Bring the Keto Chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the lid and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes to allow the chili to thicken to your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices according to your preference.
Notes
- For the most flavorful Keto Chili, simmer on low heat for up to 2 hours if you have the time. The flavors will develop and intensify beautifully.
- Store leftover Keto Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- The flavors actually improve after freezing, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a bright flavor without adding carbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 23
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 7
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 22
- Cholesterol: N/A
Keywords: keto chili, low carb chili, no bean chili, keto comfort food