Easy Chili Slow Cooker No Beans Recipe (Guide)

ByAmy

If you’ve ever craved a hearty, flavorful bowl of chili but aren’t a fan of beans-or maybe you just want something low-carb, paleo-friendly, or simply meat-forward-this Easy Chili Slow Cooker No Beans Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the rich aroma of chili simmering all day: the layers of spices, the tender chunks of meat, and the cozy warmth it brings on a chilly evening.

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Slow cookers are the unsung heroes of home cooking. They allow flavors to develop naturally over hours without constant supervision, and when you walk in after a long day, your house smells like you spent hours in the kitchen. In this recipe, we focus on bold flavors, a thick and hearty texture, and simplicity-so you can enjoy gourmet-level chili without the hassle.

Easy Chili Slow Cooker No Beans Recipe

easy chili slow cooker no beans recipe

This recipe is perfect for:

  • Busy weeknights when you want dinner waiting for you.
  • Meal prep-it makes excellent leftovers.
  • Low-carb or paleo diets since it skips beans but keeps all the flavor.
  • Family dinners-even picky eaters often love bean-free chili.

It balances savory, spicy, and slightly sweet notes with tender meat, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, making every spoonful comforting and rich.

Ingredient List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this chili:

Proteins

  • 2 pounds ground beef, ground turkey, or a mix (you can also use diced chicken or pork)
  • Optional: ½ pound diced bacon for extra smoky flavor

Vegetables

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Optional: 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (for heat)

Liquids & Base

  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth (adjust for thickness)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Sliced green onions

Instruction Guide

Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked, flavorful chili:

  1. Prep The Ingredients

    • Dice all vegetables and mince the garlic.
    • If using bacon, dice and cook it lightly in a skillet for extra flavor.

  2. Brown The Meat

    • In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground meat until no longer pink.
    • Drain excess fat if necessary.

  3. Combine Ingredients In The Slow Cooker

    • Add the browned meat, vegetables, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth.
    • Sprinkle in all the spices. Stir until well combined.

  4. Cook Low And Slow

    • Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
    • The longer you cook, the deeper the flavor.

  5. Final Touches

    • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more chili powder.
    • If it’s too thick, stir in extra broth; if too thin, let it cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes.

  6. Serve And Garnish

    • Spoon into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs.
    • Enjoy with a side of cornbread or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Ingredient Swaps

Don’t have a certain ingredient on hand? No problem! Here are some swaps:

  • Meat Alternatives

    • Ground chicken, turkey, or sausage
    • Chopped beef chuck for chunkier chili

  • Tomato Options

    • Crushed, diced, or whole tomatoes (just break them up while cooking)
    • Tomato sauce for a smoother texture

  • Spices

    • Paprika → smoked or sweet paprika depending on preference
    • Cayenne → red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat

  • Vegetables

    • Add zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for extra texture and nutrition

Helpful Tips

  • Browning the meat first adds a depth of flavor that a slow cooker alone can’t achieve.
  • Layer flavors: Add garlic and spices before the tomatoes for a richer taste.
  • Adjust thickness: Slow cookers can vary-start with less liquid and add more if needed.
  • Reheating: Chili tastes even better the next day, as flavors continue to meld.
  • Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers; it keeps well for up to 3 months.

Customization Ideas

Make this chili your own:

  • Spicy Kick: Add extra jalapeños, chipotle in adobo, or hot sauce.
  • Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika, bacon, or a splash of liquid smoke.
  • Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
  • Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese at the end or top with melted cheese.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Swap meat for hearty vegetables, lentils, or meat substitutes.

FAQs

Can I Make This Chili Recipe Vegetarian Without The Beans?

Yes, you can replace the meat with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives. Since the recipe is already bean-free, you’ll maintain the hearty texture while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

How Long Should I Cook This Chili In A Slow Cooker?

For optimal flavor, cook the chili on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low allows the flavors to meld together more thoroughly, creating a richer taste.

What Type Of Meat Works Best For This Chili?

Ground beef, ground turkey, or diced chicken are excellent options. Ground beef is traditional and provides a robust flavor, while turkey or chicken offers a lighter alternative without compromising texture.

Do I Need To Brown The Meat Before Adding It To The Slow Cooker?

Browning the meat is recommended because it enhances the flavor and texture. However, if you’re short on time, you can add raw meat directly to the slow cooker and it will still cook properly, although the flavor may be slightly less rich.

Can I Make This Chili Spicy Or Mild?

Absolutely. Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer chili powders, crushed red pepper flakes, or fresh diced chili peppers. You can also control heat by using mild or hot paprika.

What Liquids Are Best For A No-bean Slow Cooker Chili?

Tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, or a combination of these work well. The liquid not only provides moisture but also helps create a rich, flavorful chili base.

Can I Freeze This Chili For Later?

Yes, this chili freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

How Can I Thicken My Chili If It’s Too Watery?

You can thicken the chili by cooking it uncovered in the slow cooker for the last 30-60 minutes, or by adding a slurry of cornstarch and cold water. Another option is to blend a portion of the chili and stir it back in for a thicker consistency.

What Are Some Good Toppings For A Bean-free Chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro. These add texture and complement the flavors of the chili.

Can I Prepare This Chili The Night Before And Cook It In The Morning?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply add everything to the slow cooker and cook according to the recipe. This makes for an easy and convenient meal prep solution.

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