Texas No Beans Chili

This Texas No Beans Chili is perfect for cozy dinners or game day gatherings. Rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that highlights the best of Texan cuisine. With its bold spices and tender beef, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor: The combination of spices creates a robust taste that satisfies your cravings.
• Hearty Texture: Ground beef gives this chili a satisfying heft without the need for beans.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Customize your bowl with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños for added flair.
• Meal Prepping Friendly: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Perfect for browning meat and simmering the chili evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while breaking up meat.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate spice measurements for the best flavor.

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

For the Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Liquid Components

• 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)

For Garnishing

• 1 bay leaf
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Seeded and thinly sliced jalapeños
• 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 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced fire roasted tomatoes along with beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot as you mix.

Step 5: Cook

Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a steady simmer. Reduce heat and continue to simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes while stirring occasionally. If desired, you can let it cook longer by adding more liquid if needed.

Step 6: Finish

Remove from heat. Discard bay leaf before tasting for seasoning adjustments; add more salt or pepper if necessary.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle your no-bean chili into bowls. Garnish with shredded cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, and chopped cilantro before serving!

How to Serve Texas No Beans Chili

Serving Texas No Beans Chili is a delightful experience, as this dish is both hearty and versatile. You can customize your bowls with various toppings and sides that enhance its flavors.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic topping that adds richness and creaminess.
• Sour Cream: A cool contrast that balances the chili’s spice.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy extra heat, fresh or pickled jalapeños are perfect.
• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh herbal note that complements the robust flavors.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the spicy chili, soaking up every bite.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are great for scooping up chili or enjoying on the side.
• Rice: Serve over steamed rice for a filling meal that stretches the chili further.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds a nice texture and flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Texas No Beans Chili

Perfecting your Texas No Beans Chili involves paying attention to the details of cooking and seasoning. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor significantly compared to older, pre-ground options.
• Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time browning the meat; it develops deeper flavors that enrich the chili.
• Adjust Liquid Levels: If you prefer a thicker or thinner chili, adjust the liquid accordingly during cooking.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor: Letting your chili simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully; just ensure there’s enough liquid.

Best Side Dishes for Texas No Beans Chili

Pairing side dishes with Texas No Beans Chili can create a complete meal that satisfies all tastes. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cornbread: A sweet and savory bread that complements the spiciness of the chili perfectly. Serve warm for added comfort.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing salad made from cabbage and carrots provides a nice contrast to the hearty chili.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add a smoky flavor that pairs well with chili’s rich taste.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a great base for spooning chili over them for an extra filling meal.
5. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice brings an additional layer of taste, making it an excellent pairing with chili.
6. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the hearty sauce of the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Texas No Beans Chili can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the browning step – Not properly browning the meat can lead to a bland flavor. Make sure to cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking or undercooking vegetables – If you overcook your onions and peppers, they may become mushy. Cook them just until they are softened, about 4 minutes.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Taste your chili before serving! Not adjusting the salt and pepper can result in a flat taste. Always season to your preference.
• Using low-quality ingredients – Ingredients like canned tomatoes and spices matter. Choose fire-roasted tomatoes and fresh spices for a rich taste.
• Not letting it simmer long enough – A quick cook won’t develop the flavors fully. Simmer your chili for at least 25-30 minutes, or longer if you have time, for better results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Allow chili to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Texas No Beans Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label containers with the date.

Reheating Texas No Beans Chili

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe bowls; cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout.
• Stovetop – Reheat on medium heat in a pot; stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Texas No Beans Chili?

Texas No Beans Chili is a hearty chili made with ground beef, tomatoes, spices, and no beans, creating a thick and satisfying dish.

How can I customize my Texas No Beans Chili?

You can add different spices like cayenne pepper for heat or include chopped veggies such as carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative while still delivering great flavor in this Texas No Beans Chili recipe.

What should I serve with Texas No Beans Chili?

Consider serving it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or rice for a complete meal that complements the bold flavors of the chili.

Final Thoughts

This Texas No Beans Chili is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it easily by adding various vegetables or spices according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings!