No Bean Carnivore Chili is the kind of recipe I reach for when the clock screams. The pantry is lean, so I keep it simple and satisfying. As a chef who loves practical, protein-packed meals, I built this chili. It powers busy days and busy families without beans. In my kitchen, quick sear, bold spices, and a simple simmer do the heavy lifting. So you can serve a hot, satisfying meal in under an hour. Whether you’re a professional burning the candle at both ends, or a mom juggling errands. This no-bean chili offers a high-protein, keto-friendly option. It’s hearty, comforting, and weeknight-ready. Read on to see how a weeknight favorite becomes your family’s staple.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Make This Recipe It Special
I know weeknights sprint by, and time is scarce after the kid bus, the meetings, and the million messages.
No Bean Carnivore Chili keeps it simple—meat, spice, and depth without fuss.
It sears fast, simmering in its own rich juices, yet tastes like planned comfort.
A protein-packed, weeknight-friendly Texan-inspired chili
Think smoky paprika, garlic perfume, and beef that browns deeply, releasing rich fond.
I love that this Texan-inspired chili moves fast, yet carries the soul of a slow-cooked cookout.
Protein-packed, keto-friendly, and crowd-pleasing, it earns its keep on busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ease, speed, and flavor combine
No Bean Carnivore Chili is my go-to weeknight hero. It’s effortless to assemble, cooks in one pot, and tastes bold enough to satisfy meat lovers and picky eaters alike. The beef-forward base delivers protein punch without fuss, keeping carbs in check for keto and low-carb families. Best of all, leftovers taste even better, so you can meal prep with confidence. If you want comforting chili in under an hour, this is your answer.
Ingredients
Exact quantities are at the bottom of the article and printable.
I keep the ingredients straightforward so weeknights stay calm.
- 1 tbsp beef tallow or olive oil — browning and flavor base; helps sear meat and build depth.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) — main protein that browns nicely and stays juicy.
- ½ lb ground turkey or ground lamb (optional) — adds extra depth and protein without heaviness.
- ½ lb beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into small cubes — adds texture and heft to the chili.
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional) — aromatics for sweetness; omit for strict carnivore.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced — pungent, savory kick that layers flavor.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste — deepen color and umami in the sauce.
- 1½ tsp smoked paprika — smoky warmth that brightens the meat flavor.
- 1 tsp chili powder — classic chili flavor with a touch of heat.
- 1 tsp ground cumin — earthy note that anchors the spice blend.
- ½ tsp dried oregano — herbal lift for freshness and balance.
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) — gentle heat; adjust for spice tolerance.
- 1 cup beef bone broth — body and richness to loosen and unify the chili.
- Salt and pepper to taste — essential seasoning; taste as you go.
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños (if not strictly carnivore) — finishers for contrast.
How to Make No Bean Carnivore Chili
Step 1: Sear beef stew meat
Heat your pot over medium-high.
Add beef stew meat and sear until deeply browned.
The fond left in the pot is flavor gold, the backbone of No Bean Carnivore Chili.
Step 2: Brown ground beef and optional turkey/lamb
Push the seared cubes aside for a moment.
Add ground beef and crumble it with a spoon.
If using turkey or lamb, add it and brown well for extra protein in this carnivore chili.
Step 3: Add onion and garlic
Stir in onion (optional) and garlic.
They add aroma and sweetness to balance the meat.
If you’re strict carnivore, skip the onion but keep the garlic for depth.
Step 4: Add tomato paste and spices
Stir in tomato paste and spices to coat the meat.
Let the paste bloom for a minute to release its sweetness and umami.
This builds a bold foundation for the keto-friendly chili.
Step 5: Return seared cubes and add bone broth
Return the seared beef cubes to the pot and pour in bone broth.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Scrape up the browned bits for extra richness in this No Bean Carnivore Chili.
Step 6: Simmer gently until thick
Keep the pot uncovered and simmer on low.
Stir occasionally and let it thicken, about 25–30 minutes.
The aroma should be warm and inviting, perfect for keto dinner plans.
Step 7: Season to taste
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Taste as you go, because bone broth can vary in saltiness.
Balance the heat and depth for a crowd-pleasing carnivore chili.
Step 8: Final flavor check and adjust
Give it a final taste test and tweak as needed.
If too thick, splash a bit more bone broth; if too thin, simmer longer.
This ensures a well-balanced, high-protein chili.
Step 9: Serve with toppings (optional)
Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños if you’re not strict carnivore.
They add creaminess, heat, and color to finish the dish.
Enjoy a satisfying, protein-forward meal in minutes.

Tips for Success
- Sear meat well in batches to develop deep fond and bold flavor.
- Don’t crowd the pot; browning builds flavor, which is essential for true carnivore chili.
- If you prefer thicker chili, uncover and simmer a few extra minutes.
- Taste and adjust salt at the end, since bone broth often carries salt.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven for browning and simmering (a heavy stock pot works too)
- Sharp knife and cutting board for prep
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Ladle for serving
- Optional: slow cooker for hands-off variation
Variations
- Swap in ground lamb for richer flavor in No Bean Carnivore Chili; keep the rest the same.
- Use turkey for a lighter take or extra protein; omit the beef stew meat if desired.
- For a dairy finish, top with shredded cheese or sour cream (if not strict carnivore).
- Add a dash of hot banana peppers or jalapeños for heat. Note: banana peppers are optional for non-strict carnivore guests.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese (optional).
- Pair with a simple side salad or roasted zucchini for color and texture.
- A cold sparkling water or a low-sugar citrus mocktail complements the spice.
- Tip: serve over cauliflower rice if you want a light, keto-friendly base.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime and a handful of cilantro for brightness.
No Bean Carnivore Chili Meal Prep for Busy Weeks
Weeks sprint by, and I feel the clock tug at dinnertime. This meal prep mindset keeps No Bean Carnivore Chili on rotation. Big batches save hours and soothe supper anxiety.
- Make a big batch by doubling or tripling the recipe. Then portion into individual containers for quick meals.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate up to four days. Or freeze in 1- to 2-cup portions for longer storage.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of bone broth if it thickens.
- To keep it keto-friendly, skip high-carb toppings. And opt for protein-forward garnishes like shredded cheese or sour cream.
No Bean Carnivore Chili stays versatile for lunch boxes or hurried dinners. By portioning ahead, I reclaim evenings for homework, baths, and a laugh. Plus, you’ll hit protein goals without skimping on flavor.

FAQs
Why can’t you have beans on a carnivore diet?
I rely on animal-based foods; beans are plant-based and bring carbs.
In my kitchen, protein keeps me full and energized for busy days.
This No Bean Carnivore Chili proves you can have bold flavor without beans.
Why do Texans not put beans in chili?
Texan chili focuses on meat-forward flavor and bold spices; beans don’t enter the pot.
That meat punch is part of the tradition I honor when I cook my chili.
Authenticity for many Texans means bean-free chili that still sings.
Can I have banana peppers on the carnivore diet?
For strict carnivore, banana peppers aren’t typical in diet plans.
Yet some flexible readers garnish or spike sauces with tiny amounts.
I personally experiment with a pinch only if it serves energy during a long day.
Can I eat banana peppers on carnivore?
Generally not for strict adherents; if your plan allows non-meat foods, you can try tiny portions and see how you feel.
Personally, I listen to my body and keep banana peppers away on strict days and test on others.
Your own plan decides what counts as a serveable bite.
Final Thoughts
This No Bean Carnivore Chili is more than a meal; it’s a dependable friend on busy nights. I love how the all-meat base comes together fast, yet tastes like a slow-simmered weekend dish. The sear and spices give warmth, while bone broth rounds everything into a cozy bowl.
It fits keto and high-protein goals without sacrificing comfort. Toppings? I keep them optional, but when the mood strikes, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese makes the whole family smile.
When time is tight, this chili is my go-to hug in a pot—No Bean Carnivore Chili keeps me fueled and feeling capable, no matter how the day swirls.
Print
No Bean Carnivore Chili offers 3 Bold Protein-Packed Flavor.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: ~4–6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
No Bean Carnivore Chili: All-meat chili packed with protein and bold spice—no beans, perfect for carnivore, keto, and low-carb eaters.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp beef tallow or olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- ½ lb ground turkey or ground lamb (optional for depth)
- ½ lb beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into small cubes
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional, omit for strict carnivore)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup beef bone broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños (if not strict carnivore)
Instructions
- Heat beef tallow or oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add cubed beef stew meat and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Add ground beef and optional ground turkey or lamb. Cook until browned, breaking apart with a spoon.
- Stir in onion (if using) and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste, paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne. Stir well to coat the meat in spices.
- Return seared beef cubes to the pot. Add bone broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, with optional toppings if desired.
Notes
- Omit the onion for a strict carnivore diet.
- Leftovers refrigerate well; reheat gently.
- For even deeper flavor, sear the beef cubes well before simmering.
- The recipe yields about 4–6 servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Chili
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American (Texan-inspired)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 to 1/6 of the recipe)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
Keywords: No Bean Carnivore Chili, carnivore chili, no-bean chili, high-protein chili, keto chili, meat chili