This Texas-style chili is all about rich flavors and hearty ingredients! A delicious mix of beef, spices, and tomatoes makes it a warm, comforting dish perfect for chilly days.
Who needs beans when you can have all that meaty goodness? I like to top my chili with cheese and onions—it takes it to the next level of yum! 🌶️
Making this chili is easy! You just cook the meat, add the spices, and let it simmer. The longer it cooks, the better it tastes—trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Chuck is my go-to! It has the perfect fat content that makes the chili rich and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes.
Chili Powder: Ancho chili powder gives great depth, but you can use a regular blend if that’s what you have. Just remember to adjust the cayenne pepper for spice level, or even skip it if you’re going mild!
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes provide both texture and a bit of acidity. If you’re out, diced tomatoes work too! For a fresher taste, you can blend cooked fresh tomatoes into a sauce.
Beef Broth: It enhances the flavor significantly. You can use vegetable broth if you’re looking for a lighter version or if you want to keep it vegetarian.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Spices?
To maximize the flavor of your spices, you should toast them with the meat. Here’s how:
- After browning the beef, sprinkle the spices over it.
- Stir for about 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their oils and deepen in flavor. This simple step enhances the overall taste of your chili!
- Don’t rush it! Letting it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours also helps meld those flavors beautifully.
Remember to taste your chili as it simmers, and adjust the seasoning as needed—this is where you make it your own! Enjoy your cooking!
Authentic Texas Style Chili Recipe No Beans
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably chuck)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp chili powder (preferably ancho or a Texas style blend)
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth (or more as needed)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or lard
- Optional toppings: shredded white cheddar cheese, chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of preparation time and then 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time to develop those delicious flavors. So, set aside a good 2 to 2.5 hours to enjoy this cooking adventure!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté them until they’re softened and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for your chili!
2. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s evenly browned and no longer pink. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Browning the meat adds depth to our chili.
4. Season the Meat:
Once the beef is browned, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to cover all the beef with the spices and toast them for about 2 minutes. This is where the magic happens—your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
5. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring everything to combine. Bring it all to a gentle simmer. This will be the heart of your chili!
6. Let It Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and partially cover the pot. Let the chili simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, you can add more broth as needed. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors become!
7. Final Touches:
After the cooking time is up, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. You want it to be just right!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot chili in bowls and top with shredded white cheddar cheese and chopped green onions if you like. It goes perfectly with cornbread or your favorite side! Enjoy this hearty and spicy delight that Texas is famous for!
This chili is rich, deeply flavored, and perfectly meat-forward without beans—true to authentic Texas style! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a leaner chili. Just be aware that they may not provide the same depth of flavor, so consider adding a bit more seasoning to compensate.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper or leave it out entirely. You can always add more spice later if needed, but it’s tough to take it away once it’s mixed in!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes! Chili freezes very well. Store it in an airtight container, and you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, just thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
What Should I Serve with This Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also top it with shredded cheese, chopped onions, or sour cream for extra flavor and texture. Enjoy the variety!
