Texas No Beans Chili

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by Nora

This Texas No Beans Chili is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, preparing a cozy dinner on a chilly evening, or simply craving a hearty meal, this chili’s rich flavors and satisfying texture will delight your taste buds. Made with a blend of spices, tomatoes, and plenty of ground beef, it embodies the robust essence of Texas cuisine. Dive into this delicious no-bean chili recipe that promises to be a hit!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich Flavor: The combination of spices creates a deep and savory flavor profile that enhances every bite.
  • Quick Preparation: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy homemade chili without spending all day in the kitchen.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or topped with your favorite garnishes like cheese and jalapeños.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Serves eight, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Texas No Beans Chili, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some essential tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Wooden spoon: Great for breaking up meat during cooking without scratching your cookware.
  • Chef’s knife: Essential for efficiently chopping veggies and prepping ingredients.

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 Chili:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
  • 1 can (28 ounces) diced fire-roasted tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups low sodium beef broth (or 1 cup beer + 1 cup beef broth)
  • 1 bay leaf

For Garnish:

  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Seeded and thinly sliced jalapeños
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped cilantro
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How to Make Texas No Beans Chili

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the hot oil. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, stir in the onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for about 4 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Stir in Spices

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, and smoked paprika.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Add the tomato paste and stir to combine. Cook for 3 minutes.

Step 6: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced fire-roasted tomatoes followed by the beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 7: Simmer

Add the bay leaf and bring to a steady simmer. Reduce heat and continue to simmer for 25-30 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Optional Step: Extend Cooking Time

For richer flavor, let it cook for an additional 3-4 hours if there’s enough liquid. Add more liquid (1 cup at a time) as needed.

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove from heat. Discard bay leaf and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, and chopped cilantro. Serve warm!

How to Serve Texas No Beans Chili

Serving Texas No Beans Chili is a delight that can cater to various tastes and preferences. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in many ways, enhancing the overall experience with delightful garnishes and sides.

Traditional Bowl

  • Classic Garnish: Top your chili with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream for a rich flavor.
  • Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños for those who like some heat in their meal.

Chili Bar

  • DIY Toppings: Set up a chili bar where guests can customize their bowls with toppings like diced onions, avocado, or fresh cilantro.
  • Cornbread on the Side: Offer warm cornbread as a perfect accompaniment for soaking up the chili.

Over Rice or Nachos

  • Chili Over Rice: Serve your Texas No Beans Chili over a bed of fluffy rice for an extra filling meal.
  • Chili Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with chili and top with cheese, then bake until melted for a crowd-pleasing snack.

In Tacos

  • Chili Tacos: Spoon the chili into soft or hard taco shells and add your favorite toppings for a fun twist.
  • Chili Quesadillas: Spread some chili between tortillas, add cheese, and grill until crispy for a delicious quesadilla option.

How to Perfect Texas No Beans Chili

To achieve the ultimate flavor in your Texas No Beans Chili, consider these helpful tips that elevate your dish.

  • Use Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality ground beef or turkey. The better the meat, the richer the flavor of your chili will be.
  • Fresh Spices: Use fresh spices instead of pre-ground ones; they have more potency and will enhance the overall taste significantly.
  • Simmer Longer: Allowing your chili to simmer longer develops deeper flavors. If you have time, let it cook for 3-4 hours on low heat.
  • Adjust Consistency: If your chili is too thick, add more broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking. This ensures you get the perfect balance of flavors.
  • Add Acidity: A splash of lime juice or vinegar right before serving brightens up the dish and balances flavors beautifully.
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Best Side Dishes for Texas No Beans Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Texas No Beans Chili enhances the meal experience. Here are some excellent choices to consider.

  1. Cornbread: This sweet bread complements the spicy flavors of chili perfectly.
  2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that balances out the hearty chili.
  3. Fried Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are great for dipping and add texture to each bite.
  4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf serves as a nice base to soak up all that flavorful chili sauce.
  5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies bring color and healthiness to your plate while adding smoky flavors.
  6. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes alongside so guests can top them with chili as well!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Texas No Beans Chili can be simple, but there are common mistakes to avoid for the best flavor and texture.

  • Skipping Quality Ingredients: Using low-quality meat or canned tomatoes can affect the taste of your chili. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients.
  • Overcooking the Beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can make it tough. Brown it just until it’s no longer pink for a tender result.
  • Ignoring Seasoning Levels: Not seasoning adequately can lead to bland chili. Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
  • Not Letting It Simmer Long Enough: Rushing the simmering process means missing out on deep flavors. Allow at least 25-30 minutes for proper melding.
  • Forgetting to Remove the Bay Leaf: Leaving the bay leaf in while serving can lead to an unpleasant taste. Always remember to take it out before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Freezing Texas No Beans Chili

  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
  • Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Texas No Beans Chili

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes.
  • Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
  • Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Texas No Beans Chili?

Texas No Beans Chili is a hearty meat-based dish known for its bold flavors and lack of beans, emphasizing the richness of the beef and spices.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. It will still provide a delicious chili with a lighter flavor profile.

How spicy is Texas No Beans Chili?

The spice level can vary based on your choice of chili powder and jalapeños. Adjust these ingredients according to your taste preferences.

Can I customize my Texas No Beans Chili?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables, adjust spices, or include your favorite toppings like cheese or avocado for personalization.

Final Thoughts

This Texas No Beans Chili recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. Perfect for dinner gatherings or meal prep, you can easily customize it with various spices and toppings. Give it a try; you’ll love how satisfying this hearty dish is!


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Texas No Beans Chili

Texas No Beans Chili


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  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 8

Description

Experience the rich and hearty flavors of Texas No Beans Chili, the ultimate comfort food perfect for any gathering or cozy dinner at home. This classic Texas-style chili is packed with robust spices, tender ground beef, and fire-roasted tomatoes that will tantalize your taste buds.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
  • 1 can (28 ounces) diced fire-roasted tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups low sodium beef broth (or 1 cup beer + 1 cup beef broth)
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Brown the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper, cooking until no longer pink.
  3. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic; cook until softened.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika.
  5. Mix in tomato paste; cook for 3 minutes.
  6. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth; scrape bottom of pot to combine.
  7. Add bay leaf; bring to simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes.
  8. Discard the bay leaf; adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Texas

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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