If you are looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle, this Easy Keto Chili Recipe is an absolute must-try. Packed with savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and just the right kick of spices, it brings warmth and comfort to your table without any guilt. This easy keto chili recipe blends rich textures and bold flavors, making it a satisfying meal that keeps your carb count low while delivering big on taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a chili that’s juicy, filling, and bursting with flavor and color. Let’s break down what you’ll need to get started.
- Olive oil: Adds a touch of healthy fat and serves as the perfect base for sautéing onions and garlic.
- Onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth to the chili as it softens.
- Garlic, minced: Imparts an aromatic richness that lifts the entire dish.
- Ground beef: The main protein source, creating that classic chili heartiness.
- Ground pork (optional): Adds extra flavor complexity and juiciness when included.
- Bell pepper, diced: Contributes a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Zucchini, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and boosts the veggie content without extra carbs.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): Provide a tangy base and luscious texture.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the chili.
- Beef broth: Builds savory depth to balance the acidity.
- Chili powder: The essential spice blend that defines the chili’s signature warmth.
- Smoked paprika: Gives a smoky nuance without smoke flavoring ingredients.
- Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a subtle nutty edge.
- Dried oregano: Offers a herbaceous backdrop to the spices.
- Salt: Enhances all of the flavors harmoniously.
- Ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Boosts the chili’s heat level, perfect if you love a kick.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brightens the chili with a touch of acidity to balance richness.
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish): Add freshness and color when serving.
- Jalapeño slices (for garnish): Provide an extra spicy touch as desired.
How to Make Easy Keto Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, coaxing out their natural sweetness. Then add the minced garlic, stirring it in for about one minute, allowing its unmistakable aroma to wash through the kitchen.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Next, add your ground beef and ground pork (if you’re using it). Cook them until the meat turns a rich brown color. Be sure to break it apart with your spatula so it cooks evenly, and drain any excess fat if the pot starts to get oily. This step builds the foundational flavor for your chili.
Step 3: Add the Veggies
Throw in the diced bell pepper and zucchini. Let them soften for about four to five minutes, stirring occasionally. These veggies add texture and a fresh element that balances the richness of the meat.
Step 4: Combine the Tomato Ingredients and Broth
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix it well to meld their flavors together and create a thick, luscious base for your chili.
Step 5: Season to Perfection
Now it’s time for the spices. Sprinkle in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and if you like, cayenne pepper for an added punch. Stir everything thoroughly so every bite is packed with that bold chili flavor we all crave.
Step 6: Simmer Slowly
Reduce the heat, leaving the pot uncovered, and let the chili simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow all those layers of flavor to come together beautifully.
Step 7: Brighten with Vinegar
Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded, stir in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. This final touch adds a subtle brightness that balances richness and ties everything together.
Step 8: Serve Hot and Garnished
Serve the chili piping hot, topped with fresh chopped green onions and optional jalapeño slices to add a fresh and spicy snap. This step makes your dish look inviting and adds a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors.
How to Serve Easy Keto Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnishes elevate this chili to something special. Chopped green onions provide a crisp, mild bite, while jalapeño slices add a fresh spicy zing. You could also sprinkle some shredded cheese or add a dollop of sour cream for richness, keeping it keto-friendly and delicious.
Side Dishes
Serving this chili alongside crunchy low-carb vegetable crudités, or a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette, complements the meal wonderfully. Cauliflower rice or keto-friendly cornbread alternatives are fantastic low-carb options that soak up the hearty sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try layering this chili over baked avocado halves or spooning it into zucchini boats for a unique presentation. Putting it in lettuce wraps also makes for a neat, portable lunch or dinner option that keeps things light and colorful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Keto Chili Recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch, this chili freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy a quick, satisfying keto meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat your stored chili gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of broth if it gets too thick during storage.
FAQs
Can I make this Easy Keto Chili Recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the meat and sautéing the veggies, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a hands-off meal that builds flavor over time.
Is it possible to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just keep an eye on moisture levels as lean meat can dry out a bit, so you might want to add a little extra broth to keep it juicy.
How can I adjust the spiciness of this chili?
If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and jalapeños. To amp up the heat, add extra cayenne, diced fresh chilies, or a splash of hot sauce to taste.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Easy Keto Chili Recipe makes great leftovers that store well and can be portioned out for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
Can I add beans to this chili if I’m not strictly keto?
Traditional chili often includes beans, but they are higher in carbs. If you’re flexible on keto, adding black beans or kidney beans is fine, but for strict keto, it’s best to skip them to keep carb counts low.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Keto Chili Recipe is a winner that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for anyone seeking a comforting low-carb meal that truly delivers. Grab your ingredients, invite some friends or family over, and enjoy the warm, spicy goodness that this chili brings to your table.
Print
Easy Keto Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Easy Keto Chili is a flavorful, low-carb meal perfect for dinner. Made with ground beef and pork, fresh vegetables, and rich spices, this hearty chili simmers to perfection in less than an hour. It’s a comforting, protein-packed dish that fits perfectly into a ketogenic lifestyle.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Garnishes
- Green onions, chopped
- Jalapeño slices
Instructions
- Heat and sauté aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Brown the meat: Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound ground pork (if using) to the pot. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the chili lean.
- Cook vegetables: Add diced bell pepper and zucchini to the browned meat. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly, stirring occasionally.
- Add liquids and tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and 1 cup beef broth. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors evenly.
- Season the chili: Add 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and optional 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Stir well to incorporate all spices.
- Simmer the chili: Lower the heat and let the chili simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Finish with vinegar and adjust seasoning: Stir in 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavor. Taste the chili and adjust salt or spices as needed.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped green onions and jalapeño slices for an added kick and fresh crunch.
Notes
- You can omit the ground pork for a leaner, all-beef chili.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity based on your heat preference.
- For a thicker chili, simmer longer or add less beef broth.
- Serve with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice or a simple green salad.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for longer storage.
