Savory No-Bean Chili con Carne
This Savory No-Bean Chili con Carne combines hearty ground beef with robust spices to create a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Ideal for those who prefer a bean-free chili, this recipe brings together the savory notes of garlic and cumin with the warming heat of chili powder and cayenne pepper. Serve it on a cold day or at your next gathering, and pair it with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or diced onions for those who want to add a little extra flair. Enjoy it as a comforting main dish on its own or alongside a side of cornbread for a complete meal experience!
8
Servings
300
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground beef
3 lbs (coarsely ground)
garlic
6 cloves (minced)
chili powder
7 tablespoons (divided)
ground cumin
1 tablespoon (none)
tomato sauce
1 (8 ounce) can (none)
beef broth
2 cups (none)
masa harina
3 tablespoons (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon (none)
paprika
1 tablespoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a large deep pan, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks until it is fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
2
Add minced garlic, 6 tablespoons of chili powder, and ground cumin to the beef, and stir well to ensure the meat is evenly coated with the spices.
3
Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, and bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring occasionally.
4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the chili simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If the chili becomes too thick, add a little water to achieve your desired consistency.
5
After the chili has simmered, gradually incorporate the masa harina by adding a small amount at a time and stirring well after each addition until you reach your desired thickness.
6
Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Finally, season the chili to taste with salt, and stir in cayenne pepper, paprika, and the remaining tablespoon of chili powder to enhance the flavor.
Nutrition Information
18.75g
Fat
5g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory No-Bean Chili con Carne?
It is a rich, hearty beef dish made with robust spices like chili powder and cumin, specifically designed without beans for those who prefer a meat-focused chili.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 8 servings.
Can I add beans to this chili?
While this specific recipe is a no-bean version, you can add beans if you prefer, though it will change the texture and nutritional profile.
What type of meat is used in this chili?
The recipe calls for 3 pounds of coarsely ground beef.
How long does it take to cook the chili?
The total simmering time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, in addition to the time needed for browning the meat.
Is this chili recipe spicy?
Yes, it features a blend of chili powder, cayenne pepper, and paprika, providing a warming heat.
What is the purpose of masa harina in this recipe?
Masa harina is used as a thickening agent to help the chili reach your desired consistency.
Can I use something other than masa harina to thicken the chili?
Yes, if you do not have masa harina, you could use a cornstarch slurry or flour, although the flavor may vary slightly.
How many calories are in one serving of this chili?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, with only 5g of carbohydrates per serving, it is considered a low-carb friendly meal.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 25g of protein.
What size can of tomato sauce is needed?
You will need one 8-ounce can of tomato sauce.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
You can, but beef broth is recommended to better complement the savory flavor of the ground beef.
How much chili powder is used in total?
The recipe uses a total of 7 tablespoons of chili powder, added in two different stages.
Do I need to drain the fat from the beef?
Yes, after browning the ground beef, you should drain any excess fat from the pan before adding spices.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients except the masa harina in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the masa harina at the end.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this chili be frozen?
Yes, this chili freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
What toppings are recommended for this chili?
Commonly recommended toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or jalapeños.
What side dishes go well with no-bean chili?
It pairs excellently with cornbread, crackers, or a simple side salad.
How many cloves of garlic are required?
The recipe calls for 6 cloves of minced garlic.
When do I add the cayenne pepper and paprika?
These are added at the end of the cooking process to enhance the final flavor profile.
Why does the chili need to simmer for an hour?
Simmering allows the flavors of the beef and spices to fully meld together for a richer taste.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative, though the flavor profile will slightly change.
What should I do if the chili becomes too thick?
If the chili is too thick, simply add a little water or extra beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
How much cumin is in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of ground cumin.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
Because this is a no-bean meat-based chili, the fiber content is minimal.
What are the main spices used in this recipe?
The primary spices are chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Masa harina is naturally gluten-free as it is made from corn, but you should always check specific brand labels to ensure no cross-contamination.
Can I reduce the spice level?
Yes, you can adjust the heat by reducing the amount of cayenne pepper or the final tablespoon of chili powder.