This Texas Style No Bean Chili is a hearty dish packed with bold flavors. Made with tender beef, zesty spices, and plenty of tomatoes, it’s sure to warm you up on chilly days!
I love how easy it is to whip up a big pot of this chili. Plus, no beans means there’s more room for that tasty meat! You’ll want to make this for every game day! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for a mix of ground beef and some beef chuck for extra texture. If you’re watching your fat intake, lean ground turkey or chicken can work too, though the flavor will be a bit different.
Chili Powder: This is key for that classic chili flavor! You can use store-bought chili powder or make your own by mixing spices like paprika, cumin, and cayenne. If you want a milder version, look for mild chili powder or adjust the amount.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional but adds a nice kick. You can skip it if you prefer a milder chili, or use a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes for added heat without overpowering it.
Tomato Paste: Tomato paste adds richness. If you’re out, you can use canned diced tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to simmer longer to thicken up the sauce.
How Do I Get My Chili to Have Rich Flavor?
Building flavor is key in chili, and it starts with toasting the spices. When you add your seasonings, cook them for a couple of minutes on medium heat to awaken their flavors. Don’t rush this step!
- Start by sautéing onions until they are soft, then add garlic for a minute.
- Next, add the ground beef. Brown it well as this adds depth.
- Once the meat is cooked, add your spices and let them toast, mixing well.
- Finally, let the chili simmer for at least an hour. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
The secret is in patience! The longer you let it simmer, the better the flavor will be. I often let mine cook for two hours while stirring every now and then—it’s worth it!
Texas Style No Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and cubed beef chuck)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Flavorings:
- 3 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Liquids:
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or lard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnishes:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty Texas Style No Bean Chili takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 to 2 hours of cooking time. The longer you cook it, the better the flavors will merge together. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Start by heating the vegetable oil or lard in a large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until the onion turns translucent and softens up.
2. Add Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Beef:
Add in the ground beef (and/or cubed beef). Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Let it cook until browned and no longer pink, which should take about 8-10 minutes. If there’s a lot of excess fat, drain it out to keep your chili from being greasy.
4. Spice It Up:
Time to add flavor! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let these spices cook for about 2 minutes to toast them and bring out their rich flavors.
5. Add the Tomato Paste:
Next, add the tomato paste and mix it in well. Cook it for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor before proceeding.
6. Combine with Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir everything together until it’s combined.
7. Simmer:
Bring the chili to a low simmer. Cover the pot partially with a lid and let it cook for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This is where all those delicious flavors meld together!
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
After simmering, take a moment to taste your chili. You can adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your taste!
9. Serve:
When you’re ready to eat, serve the chili hot, generously garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your authentic Texas Style No Bean Chili! It’s thick, meaty, and bursts with those bold southwestern flavors that will keep you coming back for more! 🌶️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that it may yield a slightly different flavor and texture. To enhance the taste, consider adding an extra splash of broth or a bit more seasoning.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you love heat, add more cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños while cooking. You can also top your serving with some fresh sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for that extra kick!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes! This chili actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded. You can make it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
What Should I Serve with Texas Style No Bean Chili?
This chili pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice. You can also serve it with a side salad or just enjoy it on its own topped with your favorite garnishes!