Texas No Beans Chili

This Texas No Beans Chili is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or as a hearty meal on chilly evenings. Bursting with rich flavors from a blend of spices and ground beef, this chili stands out with its robust taste and thick texture. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your palate!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chili:
• For Garnish:
• How to Make Texas No Beans Chili
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Brown the Meat
• Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 4: Add Spices
• Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste
• Step 6: Mix in Tomatoes
• Step 7: Pour in Broth
• Step 8: Simmer
• Optional Step: For Longer Cooking
• Step 9: Final Touches
• Step 10: Serve
• How to Serve Texas No Beans Chili
• Classic Toppings
• Spicy Additions
• Accompaniments
• How to Perfect Texas No Beans Chili
• Best Side Dishes for Texas No Beans Chili
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Texas No Beans Chili
• Reheating Texas No Beans Chili
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I add beans to this Texas No Beans Chili?
• What makes Texas No Beans Chili different from other chilis?
• How spicy is this Texas No Beans Chili?
• Can I make this chili ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fire-roasted tomatoes creates an unforgettable taste.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can whip up this delicious chili in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it alone or topped with cheese and jalapeños for extra flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A sure hit at parties or family gatherings, satisfying every chili lover.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Perfect for slow cooking, ensuring even heat distribution for rich flavors.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for breaking up meat without scratching your cookware.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.

Ingredients

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

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 Meat

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

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 4: Add Spices

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

Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Add the tomato paste. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 6: Mix in Tomatoes

Stir in the diced fire-roasted tomatoes along with their juices.

Step 7: Pour in Broth

Add the beef broth while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance flavor.

Step 8: Simmer

Add the bay leaf and bring to a steady simmer. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Optional Step: For Longer Cooking

You can let the chili cook for 3 to 4 hours if desired. Just ensure there is enough liquid; add more as needed.

Step 9: Final Touches

Remove from heat, discard bay leaf, adjust seasoning as needed by tasting for salt and pepper.

Step 10: Serve

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

How to Serve Texas No Beans Chili

Serving Texas No Beans Chili is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. This hearty dish pairs well with various toppings and sides, enhancing its rich flavors. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Classic Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – A generous sprinkle adds creaminess and sharpness.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream balances the spice and adds a cool element.
• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor and color to your bowl.

Spicy Additions

• Sliced Jalapeños – For those who enjoy heat, add fresh or pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Hot Sauce – Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for added spiciness and depth.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Serve with warm cornbread for a comforting side that soaks up the chili.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips make for a fun, dippable option alongside your chili.

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How to Perfect Texas No Beans Chili

Making the perfect Texas No Beans Chili requires attention to detail and the right techniques. Here are some tips to help you achieve chili perfection:

• Use Quality Meat – Opt for fresh ground beef or turkey for the best flavor and texture.
• Brown the Meat Well – Ensure the meat is browned properly to develop deep, rich flavors.
• Let it Simmer – Allowing the chili to simmer enhances the flavors; longer cooking times yield better results.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices gradually until it’s just right.
• Experiment with Liquids – Try using beer or broth for different flavor profiles in your chili.

Best Side Dishes for Texas No Beans Chili

Pairing sides with Texas No Beans Chili can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty dish:

1. Cornbread – A sweet, buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up every drop of chili.
2. Rice – Fluffy white rice provides a neutral base that pairs well with spicy chili.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness to balance out the chili’s richness.
4. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole offers a cool contrast to the heat of the chili.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies add smoky flavors that enhance the overall meal experience.
6. Baked Potatoes – Serve with baked potatoes topped with cheese and sour cream for a hearty addition.
7. Tortillas – Warm tortillas can be used to scoop up chili or enjoyed on their own as a side.
8. Macaroni Salad – A creamy macaroni salad provides a nice, refreshing contrast to spicy dishes like chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Texas No Beans Chili can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best flavor and texture.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meat well can lead to a bland chili. Always ensure your beef is nicely browned for maximum flavor.
• Using low-quality spices: Fresh spices make a big difference. Opt for fresh chili powder and spices for a more robust taste.
• Neglecting to taste: Failing to taste as you cook can result in an unbalanced dish. Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for the best results.
• Overcooking the tomatoes: Cooking tomatoes too long can lead to bitterness. Add them at the right time to keep their freshness.
• Ignoring simmer time: Rushing the simmer time can result in a watery chili. Allow it to simmer adequately for flavors to meld.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Texas No Beans Chili

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It lasts for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Texas No Beans Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Texas No Beans Chili that might help you perfect your dish.

Can I add beans to this Texas No Beans Chili?

Traditionally, Texas chili does not include beans. If you prefer beans, consider adding them for extra texture.

What makes Texas No Beans Chili different from other chilis?

Texas No Beans Chili is known for its rich beef flavor and is typically thicker than other variations, relying heavily on spices rather than beans.

How spicy is this Texas No Beans Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted based on personal preference. Start with less chili powder and add more as needed.

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes! This dish benefits from being made ahead of time as the flavors deepen with sitting.

Final Thoughts

Texas No Beans Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases bold Southwest flavors. This recipe invites customization; feel free to adjust spices or toppings based on your preferences. Give it a try today!