Today, I’m sharing a beanless chili that’s packed with flavor and perfect for those who prefer their chili without the legumes.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For serving:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped chives
- Diced fresh tomatoes
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat and transfer to your slow cooker.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add to the slow cooker.
- Combine ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and paprika to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.
- Season: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot chili into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream, a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese, a scatter of chopped chives, and some diced fresh tomatoes.
Customization Tips
- Spice it up: For those who like it hot, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the slow cooker. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for easy heat adjustment.
- Veggie boost: While this recipe focuses on tomatoes, feel free to add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and texture.
- Thickness control: If you prefer a thicker chili, leave the lid off for the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate. For a thinner consistency, add a bit more beef broth.
As the chili slowly bubbles away in your kitchen, filling your home with its inviting aroma, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating that first spoonful. This beanless chili is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for gathering loved ones around the table or curling up on the couch for a cozy night in.
So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a chili that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!
