Let’s face it—finding a hearty, comforting dish that satisfies both your cravings and your diet plan can feel like an impossible task. Whether you’re sticking to a carnivore lifestyle, diving into keto, or trying to keep things , so many recipes out there seem to fall short on flavor or overcomplicate the process. That’s where this carnivore chili swoops in to save the day.
Imagine a big, steaming bowl of slow-simmered beef, infused with smoky bacon and rich broth, every bite bursting with savory goodness. It’s everything you love about chili—but without the beans or the guilt.
This recipe checks all the boxes: simple to make, unbelievably delicious, and completely customizable to your dietary needs. And don’t worry—if you think “no beans” means “no soul,” this chili will prove you wrong.
Table of Content
Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights) |
Ingredients for Carnivore Chili |
How to Make This Healthy Carnivore Chili |
Storage & Serving Suggestions |
Tips & FAQs |
Health Benefits |
Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights)
Here’s why this carnivore chili is about to become your new favorite:
- No Beans, All Flavor: Say goodbye to carb-heavy fillers and hello to pure, meaty deliciousness.
- Protein-Packed Power: With beef chunks, ground beef, and bacon, this chili delivers serious protein for sustained energy.
- Slow-Simmered Perfection: Cooking low and slow brings out bold flavors and melt-in-your-mouth beef.
- Versatile Toppings: Top it with bacon bits, shredded cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream (or keep it simple and skip the extras).
- Meal Prep Hero: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
- Kid-Approved: Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist a bowl of this meaty goodness.
Ready to dive in? Let’s make it happen!
Ingredients Needed
Core Ingredients:
- Bacon rashers for a smoky base.
- Cubed beef (chuck steak or similar).
- Ground beef.
- Water or beef broth for simmering.
Optional Flavor Boosters:
- Apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
- Tomato paste for umami.
- Chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for spice and flavor depth.
- Bay leaves for earthy warmth.
How to Make Carnivore Chili
Prepare the Meats: Fry bacon to a crisp, set it aside, and sear the beef chunks in the reserved bacon fat. Brown the ground beef in the same pan.
Simmer for Flavor: Combine all the meats, add optional seasonings and broth, and let it simmer on low heat until the flavors meld and the liquid reduces.
Serve and Garnish: Top with reserved bacon bits and optional garnishes like cheese or sour cream.
Storage & Serving Tips
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate Like a Pro: Let the chili cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Freezer-Friendly Comfort: Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Perfect for quick, stress-free meals later!
- Reheat Gently: Warm it on the stovetop over low heat or use the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions
- Top It Your Way: Think crispy bacon bits, gooey cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. Customize it to your cravings!
- Pair It Perfectly: Serve with cauliflower rice, roasted veggies, or even zucchini noodles for a healthy twist.
- Share the Love: Turn dinner into fun by setting up a chili bar with toppings like jalapeños, avocado, and shredded cheese for everyone to enjoy.
Whether freshly made or reheated, this chili delivers cozy, satisfying flavor every time! ❤️
Tips & FAQs
What’s the Best Cut of Beef for Carnivore Chili?
Chuck steak is a great option because it becomes tender during slow cooking. You can also use brisket or short ribs for a richer flavor.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Chili?
While this is a meat-only chili, you can add low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini if you’re not strictly carnivore.
Can I Make This Chili Spicy?
Yes! Add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or even diced jalapeños for a fiery kick.
How Can I Make This Chili Dairy-Free?
Simply skip the optional cheese and sour cream toppings. The chili is still rich and satisfying without them.
Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely. After searing the meats, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Health Benefits of Carnivore Chili
This protein-rich chili is not only flavorful but also fits seamlessly into various dietary plans, including the carnivore diet and Weight Watchers.
For Carnivore and Keto Diets
- Zero Carb Chili: By eliminating beans and vegetables, this chili keeps carbs to a minimum.
- High in Healthy Fats: Bacon and beef provide healthy fats that support ketosis and sustained energy.
- Nutrient-Dense: Beef is a rich source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
Description
A rich, meat-only carnivore chili with tender beef, crispy bacon, and a flavor-packed broth. Perfect for low-carb diets and Weight Watchers alike.
Ingredients
Core Ingredients
Optional Flavor Boosters
Instructions
Crisp the Bacon:
-
In a large pan over medium heat, fry the bacon until it’s crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
Sear the Cubed Beef:
-
Turn the heat to medium-high. Add the beef cubes to the bacon fat and sear on all sides, salting to taste. Once browned, remove and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef:
-
In the same pan, cook the ground beef thoroughly, salting to taste.
Combine and Simmer:
-
Return the cubed beef to the pan. Reduce heat to low and add optional seasonings, bay leaves, and apple cider vinegar if desired. Pour in the water or broth, cover, and let simmer gently.
Slow Cook for Flavor:
-
Cook the chili for at least 1-2 hours (or up to 4 for a richer flavor), stirring occasionally. Allow the moisture to reduce to your preferred consistency.
Serve and Garnish:
-
Top with the crispy bacon bits and, if you like, add shredded cheese, sour cream, or chives for extra indulgence.
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
- Protein 35g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
This carnivore chili is a game-changer in my kitchen, and let me tell you—it wasn’t just me who fell in love with it. When I first made it, my husband, the ultimate chili traditionalist, gave me that “no beans?” raised eyebrow. My kids, ever the skeptics, initially asked if it was even “real chili.” But one bite in, there was silence—except for the sound of spoons scraping bowls. My husband declared it a “keeper,” and the kids demanded seconds (and bacon bits on everything). This recipe is now a family favorite, and I hope it becomes yours too! ❤️