Texas No Beans Chili

This Texas No Beans Chili is a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. With its rich and robust flavors, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining friends at a game day gathering. The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a blend of authentic spices creates a hearty meal that stands out from the rest. Enjoy this classic Texas chili recipe any time you crave comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: An authentic mix of spices ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Customize your chili by swapping in ground turkey or adding extra veggies!
• No Beans Needed: This no bean chili focuses on meat and spices, perfect for those who prefer a traditional Texas-style dish.
• Perfect for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Texas No Beans Chili, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking; it retains heat well and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware; helps break up the meat while cooking.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quicker and safer.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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)

Aromatics & Vegetables

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

Spices & Tomato Base

• 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)

Broth & Finishing Touches

• 2 cups low sodium beef broth (you can also use 1 cup beef broth + 1 cup water)
• 1 bay leaf
• 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 while 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 to combine, and cook for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in diced tomatoes along with their juices and beef broth. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Cook

Add the bay leaf. Bring the chili to a steady simmer; reduce heat and continue to simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes while stirring occasionally. If you prefer longer cooking time, you can let it simmer for up to 4 hours with additional liquid as needed.

Step 6: Finish

Remove from heat. Take out the bay leaf and taste your chili; adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Texas No Beans Chili

Texas No Beans Chili is a hearty dish that shines on its own but can be elevated with the right accompaniments. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your chili experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar adds a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spices with its coolness.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro provides a burst of freshness and color.

Pair with Crunchy Additions

• Jalapeños: Sliced jalapeños add heat for those who love a kick in their chili.
• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a sweet contrast to the savory chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make for a great dipping option.

Serve with Refreshing Drinks

• Iced Tea: A glass of iced tea complements the spiciness, making it very refreshing.
• Lemonade: The tangy flavor of lemonade cuts through the richness of the chili.

How to Perfect Texas No Beans Chili

Perfecting Texas No Beans Chili is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your chili game.

• Bold Spices: Use fresh spices for a more intense flavor. They can make a significant difference.
• Simmer Longer: Letting the chili simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully. Aim for at least 25 minutes.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking to ensure balanced flavors.
• Quality Meat: Choose high-quality ground beef or turkey for better taste and texture. It makes your dish even more satisfying.
• Add Broth Gradually: If you want to extend cooking time, add broth gradually to maintain consistency without watering down flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Texas No Beans Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Texas No Beans Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Cornbread: Moist and slightly sweet, cornbread pairs perfectly with chili’s bold flavors.
2. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains offer a delightful contrast to spicy chili.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, balancing out the richness of the chili.
4. Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice soaks up the chili’s juices, making every bite flavorful.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled vegetables provide a colorful and healthy side option.
6. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes topped with chili for a filling and hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Texas No Beans Chili can be straightforward, but there are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Bold flavorless meat: Using low-quality or lean meat can result in bland chili. Choose ground beef with a bit of fat for richer flavor.
• Bold over-seasoning: Adding too many spices without tasting can overpower the dish. Start with smaller amounts and adjust as needed during cooking.
• Bold skipping the simmer: Not letting the chili simmer long enough can prevent flavors from developing. Aim for at least 25-30 minutes, or longer if possible.
• Bold using fresh tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes often lack the depth of flavor found in canned fire-roasted tomatoes. Stick with canned for a more authentic taste.
• Bold neglecting garnishes: Skipping toppings can make your chili less appealing. Add shredded cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, and cilantro for added flavor and texture.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Texas No Beans Chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Texas No Beans Chili

• Freeze in portioned containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to leave some space in containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Texas No Beans Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover your chili in an oven-safe dish, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Texas No Beans Chili?

Texas No Beans Chili is a hearty dish made with ground beef, spices, and tomatoes, without any beans. It’s known for its rich flavors and thick consistency.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that still provides excellent flavor while being slightly leaner.

How spicy is Texas No Beans Chili?

The spiciness level depends on the type of chili powder and jalapeños used. Feel free to adjust these ingredients based on your heat preference.

Can I add vegetables to the chili?

Certainly! You can incorporate other vegetables like corn or zucchini for added nutrition and taste.

How do I make it vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Texas No Beans Chili, substitute ground beef with textured vegetable protein or lentils and use vegetable broth instead.

Final Thoughts

This Texas No Beans Chili recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different spices or toppings according to your taste preferences. Give it a try for your next dinner gathering!