Name: Texas No Bean Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste; 2-3 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef or chicken broth; Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions

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The aroma of simmering spices fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that beckons all who enter. Texas No Bean Chili is the ideal dish for any gathering, bringing warmth and comfort with its rich flavors and satisfying heartiness. Perfect for crisp autumn evenings or weekend game days, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that warms both the body and soul, promising second helpings and hearty laughter.

Reasons to Love Texas No Bean Chili

This Texas No Bean Chili stands out for several reasons, making it a must-try for chili lovers and newcomers alike. It’s the simplicity combined with robust flavors that makes it irresistible. Here are a few highlights that make this dish special:

Quick and easy to prepare
Rich and hearty flavor profile
Versatile for various diets
Perfect for meal prep and gatherings
Can be customized with your favorite toppings

Gather These Ingredients

Creating Texas No Bean Chili is made simple with a list of familiar ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. You can easily swap some items based on your preferences, like using ground turkey for a leaner option. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious chili:

1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
2-3 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef or chicken broth
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions

How to Cook Texas No Bean Chili

Bringing Texas No Bean Chili to life is a delightful process. Follow these simple steps to create a hearty bowl of comfort:

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground meat until it’s nicely browned. Once the meat is cooked through, drain any excess fat to ensure the chili stays rich without being greasy.
Next, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté these aromatic vegetables until they soften, which will take about 3-5 minutes, releasing a wonderful fragrance into the air.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and broth. This combination of ingredients creates the base of the chili and infuses it with all those classic flavors.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, giving everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Allow the chili to cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld beautifully and the sauce thickens slightly.
Finally, serve the chili hot in bowls, topped with your choice of optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions for an extra flavor boost.

Prep ~ 10 minutes, Cook ~ 30 minutes, Total ~ 40 minutes, Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 300 (estimated).

Prep Ahead and Planning Tips

Making Texas No Bean Chili ahead of time can not only save you work on busy days but also enhance the flavors. You can prepare the chili a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve. For longer storage, consider freezing the chili in airtight containers for up to three months. To finish, simply thaw and reheat on the stove until warmed through.

Proper Storage and Reheating

Storing leftovers from Texas No Bean Chili is easy. Once cooled, transfer the chili to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for about 3-4 days. If you decide to freeze it, make sure to use freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn. For reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much. A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving can enhance its freshness and appeal.

Ideal Pairings

Pairing Texas No Bean Chili with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience. Here are a few suggestions that would complement the dish perfectly:

Cornbread serves as a hearty, buttery contrast.
Tortilla chips are perfect for dipping and add a satisfying crunch.
A side salad provides a refreshing balance to the spicy chili.
Rice or quinoa can absorb the flavors and make for a filling meal.
A cold beer or fizzy soda is a classic choice for a casual gathering.

Flavor Twists and Modifications

Everyone loves a good twist on a classic recipe. Here are some ideas to make Texas No Bean Chili even more personalized:

Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Include a can of black beans for additional texture and protein.
Experiment with different spices like cinnamon or cocoa for depth.
Swap out the ground meat for lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Toss in some corn for sweetness and texture.
Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.

Chef’s Notes for Best Results

Achieving the perfect Texas No Bean Chili requires attention to detail. Consider these tips for fantastic results:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t rush the sautéing process; allowing the vegetables to soften enhances flavors.
Let the chili simmer longer for richer taste; it’s often better the next day after flavors meld.
Keep a close eye on the heat level; you can always add more spice but can’t take it away.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving to ensure the best flavor balance.

Your Questions, Answered

Chili enthusiasts often have questions about this delightful dish. Here are some answers to common inquiries:

Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, you can brown the meat first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is it spicy? The heat level depends on the chili powder and any additions like jalapeños, so adjust to your preference.
Can I add beans? Technically, no! But you can if you prefer, just remember it won’t be traditional Texas No Bean Chili.
How long does it last in the fridge? Properly stored, it should last about 3-4 days.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! This chili freezes well, so feel free to make a big batch.

Final Thoughts

Texas No Bean Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Its rich flavors and heartiness make it a go-to recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. So why not gather your ingredients and enjoy the delightful experience of creating this delicious chili today? It’s comfort food that will warm your heart and fill your home with wonderful aromas, inviting everyone to the table.

Texas No Bean Chili

Author: lu-ann
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Omnivore

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Description

A comforting and hearty chili that brings warmth with rich flavors, perfect for gatherings and meal prep.

Instructions

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and broth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes.
Serve hot in bowls, topped with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.