Texas No Beans Chili

This Texas No Beans Chili is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals. Perfect for cold nights or gatherings with friends, this chili recipe stands out due to its rich blend of spices and tender ground beef. It’s an easy dish that satisfies without the fuss of beans, making it suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Hearty: With a robust mix of spices and ingredients, this chili packs a punch in every spoonful.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with shredded cheese, jalapenos, sour cream, and cilantro for added flair.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Texas No Beans Chili, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat evenly and simmering chili to perfection.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while breaking up meat.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick slicing of onions and peppers for prep time efficiency.

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)

Vegetables & Aromatics

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

Spices & Flavorings

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

Tomatoes & Broth

• 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 broth)

Garnishes

• 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 4 minutes, or until veggies are softened.

Step 3: Mix in the Seasonings and Tomato Paste

Stir in chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, and paprika. Add the tomato paste, stir to combine, and cook for 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the tomatoes and beef broth while scraping up 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. Continue to simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Note that you can let it cook longer if there is enough liquid—add water if needed.

Step 6: Finish

Remove from heat. Take out the bay leaf; taste your chili for seasoning—adjust salt and pepper as necessary.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle your no-bean chili into bowls and garnish with cheese, jalapenos, sour cream, and cilantro. Enjoy!

How to Serve Texas No Beans Chili

Serving Texas No Beans Chili is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a satisfying meal experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these serving ideas will elevate your chili game.

Toppings to Consider

• Shredded Cheese: A generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese melts beautifully on top, adding creaminess and flavor.
• Sliced Jalapenos: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, fresh or pickled jalapenos provide a spicy kick.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast to the spiciness of the chili.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness and color, enhancing the overall presentation and taste.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Soft, warm cornbread is perfect for soaking up the hearty chili and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Rice: Serve over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal that balances the flavors.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a delightful textural contrast and are great for scooping up chili.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado can tone down the heat while adding richness to each bite.

How to Perfect Texas No Beans Chili

Perfecting Texas No Beans Chili requires attention to detail and some cooking savvy. With these tips, you can take your chili from good to great!

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices bring out more flavor than older ones. Make sure your spices are within their best-by date for optimal taste.
• Brown the Meat Well: Properly browning the meat enhances flavor through caramelization. Don’t rush this step!
• Simmer Longer: Allowing your chili to simmer longer deepens its flavors. If time permits, let it cook for several hours on low heat.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices towards the end of cooking, so you don’t over-season early on.
• Experiment with Heat Levels: If you enjoy heat, try different types of peppers or add hot sauce to reach your desired spice level.

Best Side Dishes for Texas No Beans Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Texas No Beans Chili can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty dish perfectly.

1. Cornbread: This classic side offers a sweet contrast and is perfect for dipping into chili.
2. Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw adds crunch and a refreshing element that balances the rich flavors of chili.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with spicy chili.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as an excellent base for topping with chili, cheese, and sour cream.
5. Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this rice dish complements the savory notes of Texas No Beans Chili beautifully.
6. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover chili in your bowl while adding delightful garlic flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Texas No Beans Chili, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the meat: If you cook the ground beef too long, it can become dry. Aim for a nice browning without overdoing it.
• Skipping the spices: Neglecting the spice blend can lead to a bland chili. Make sure to measure and mix them in thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: The type of tomatoes you choose affects the taste. Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes for richer flavor.
• Not simmering long enough: A quick cook won’t allow flavors to meld. Letting your chili simmer enhances its depth and character.
• Forgetting to taste: Always taste before serving! Adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed to achieve the perfect balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Remains fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Texas No Beans Chili

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags; it lasts up to 3 months.

Reheating Texas No Beans Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Texas No Beans Chili different?

Texas No Beans Chili is known for its robust meat flavor and lack of beans. This version highlights ground beef and spices, creating a hearty dish.

Can I make Texas No Beans Chili spicy?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spiciness by adding more jalapeños or using hotter chili powders according to your taste preference.

How should I serve Texas No Beans Chili?

Serve your chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. It pairs well with cornbread or tortilla chips.

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different meats such as turkey or lamb.

Final Thoughts

This Texas No Beans Chili is not only hearty but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as is or customized with your favorite toppings, it promises a delicious meal that will satisfy everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try and make it your own!

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Texas No Beans Chili

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Texas No Beans Chili is a mouthwatering dish that embodies the essence of hearty Texan comfort food. This chili features a rich and robust flavor profile, driven by tender ground beef and an authentic blend of spices, ensuring every spoonful is packed with deliciousness. Perfect for cozy nights in or lively gatherings, this no-bean chili is quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners. Top it off with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese and jalapeños for an added kick, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced fire-roasted tomatoes
• 2 cups low sodium beef broth

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown while breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
2. Stir in onions, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika; mix in tomato paste and cook for another 3 minutes.
4. Pour in fire-roasted tomatoes and beef broth; scrape browned bits from the pot.
5. Add a bay leaf, bring to simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 25-30 minutes.
6. Remove bay leaf; adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot with desired toppings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Texan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 85mg