Low Carb Beef Chili
Here's a homemade, low-carb chili recipe using whole, clean ingredients—no seasoning packets, no added sugar, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for keto or low-carb lifestyles, and topped with sharp cheddar, it's satisfying and cozy.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs grass-fed ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 small yellow onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 14.5 oz box or can of diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
- 1 6 oz can tomato paste or 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce (look for no sugar added)
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics
- Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Brown the Beef
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste or sauce, and water or broth. Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne (if using), and salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Simmer
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more flavor develops—up to an hour is ideal.
- Taste and Adjust
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash more water or broth.
- Serve
- Spoon into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese. Optional: add a dollop of sour cream or sliced green onions.
Notes
Nutrition (approx. per serving, without optional toppings):
Calories: 325
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Net Carbs: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Total Carbs: 9g
Note: Tomato products contribute most of the carbs. For even lower carb count, reduce tomato paste slightly or use a smaller amount of diced tomatoes.
Calories: 325
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Net Carbs: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Total Carbs: 9g
Note: Tomato products contribute most of the carbs. For even lower carb count, reduce tomato paste slightly or use a smaller amount of diced tomatoes.