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
Scale
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.
