Name: Easy Keto Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper

Warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, this Easy Keto Chili is the ultimate low-carb comfort food. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a keeper. With rich, bold spices, savory ground beef, and no beans in sight, it hits all the right notes without loading up on carbs.

This keto chili brings everything you love about traditional chili but swaps out the high-carb fillers for a meatier, more satisfying bowl. It’s thick, chunky, and the kind of meal that leaves you full and happy without the need for bread or crackers. Plus, it stores beautifully and gets even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Keto Chili

This dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It takes minimal prep and uses everyday pantry staples. It’s also extremely customizable: you can make it spicier, smokier, or even double it for freezing. Not to mention, it’s a one-pot wonder that delivers huge on flavor while keeping your macros in check.

What Can I Use Instead of Beans in Keto Chili?

Beans are a no-go on strict keto, but this chili doesn’t need them to be satisfying. Instead, we boost texture and flavor with more meat, chopped vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, and a well-balanced mix of tomato paste and spices. Some even like to stir in riced cauliflower toward the end of cooking to mimic the bulk beans usually provide.

Ingredients for the Easy Keto Chili

The magic of this chili lies in how simple ingredients come together to build complex flavor. Everything you need is easy to find, and you likely have most of it already.

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Bell pepper
Zucchini
Tomato paste
Diced tomatoes
Beef broth
Chili powder
Cumin
Smoked paprika
Salt & pepper
Olive oil

Each of these ingredients adds a layer to the chili. The ground beef forms the base, while onion and garlic build aromatic depth. Bell pepper and zucchini add texture and nutrients. The tomato paste and diced tomatoes give richness and acidity. Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika bring the smoky heat. Lastly, beef broth ties it all together with a savory finish.

How To Make the Easy Keto Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Remove excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Toss in the bell pepper and zucchini. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Build the Flavor

Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for a couple of minutes to blend the spices.

Step 5: Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should thicken and become rich in flavor.

How to Serve and Store Easy Keto Chili

This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings, depending on portion size. It’s ideal for feeding the family or meal prepping for a few days. Serve it hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of green onions.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, and it freezes like a dream for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

What to Serve With Easy Keto Chili?

Cheddar Cauliflower Mash

A creamy and cheesy cauliflower mash is the perfect low-carb sidekick.

Crunchy Cabbage Slaw

A tangy slaw adds crunch and contrast to the hearty chili.

Jalapeno Cheddar Chaffles

Spicy and cheesy, these make a fun alternative to cornbread.

Keto Tortilla Chips

Perfect for scooping up bites of chili like a dip.

Roasted Zucchini and Squash

Mild and buttery, they balance the chili’s heat beautifully.

Simple Side Salad

A crisp salad with olive oil vinaigrette lightens the meal.

Pickled Red Onions

Sweet, tart, and crunchy — these lift up every spoonful.

Fried Egg on Top

A runny yolk over warm chili? Absolute bliss.

Want More Keto Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Easy Keto Chili, you’ll definitely want to explore these other low-carb favorites from Janet Dishes:

Try the Keto Philly Cheesesteak Roll Ups for cheesy, meaty bites that feel indulgent.
Our Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a warm bowl of comfort.
Dig into the Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole if you’re craving a full keto dinner bake.
For something fun and snackable, don’t miss the Cottage Cheese Egg Bites.
You might also love the Zucchini Lasagna Recipe layered with creamy goodness.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest low-carb board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how your chili turned out. Did you try it with ground turkey? Add jalapeños? Top it with crispy bacon?

I love seeing how others make these dishes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s swap ideas and make keto cooking more fun.

Explore beautifully curated keto-friendly meals and hearty dinner inspiration on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next go-to meal.

Conclusion

This Easy Keto Chili proves you don’t need beans or grains to have a filling, flavorful meal. It’s rich, hearty, and easy enough for weeknight dinners but tasty enough to serve guests. Whether you’re deep into keto or just cutting carbs, this recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again.