No Bean Chili Recipe (Texas Style)

Kristen Massad — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 14:06:22 +0000

If you are craving a bold, hearty chili that lets the meat and spices shine, this Texas Style No Bean Chili is for you. Rich, slow simmered and packed with deep chili flavor, this classic recipe skips the beans and focuses on the tender beef, smokey spices and a savory sauce. Perfect for game day, cozy weekends or anytime you are craving a bowl of chili!

Why You'll Love This Chili

This No Bean Chili is all about big flavor and simple ingredients. Using ground beef, a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder and a dash of cayenne pepper creates a signature warmth without overwhelming heat. It simmers low and slow, developing layers of flavor that tastes even better the next day.

Ingredient Notes

Ground Beef-Good quality ground beef is key for this recipe. I like using 90% 10% but 85% 25%
Onion-One yellow onion sautéed with the meat adds so much flavor and a touch of sweetness.
Garlic- Fresh garlic adds the perfect depth and aroma
Chili Seasoning-Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper are all so important to this recipe. Don't skip one or the flavor profile will change.
Crushed Tomatoes or Tomato Sauce- I love using crushed tomatoes for a little texture but you can also substitute it for tomato sauce for a smoother texture.
Beef Broth-Adds the perfect amount of flavor to your chili. I like using low sodium so I can control the amount of salt going into this recipe.
Garnish-There are so many ways your can garnish your chili and it is all a personal preference, but my go to is crunchy corn chips (Fritos are a great option), shredded cheese, sour cream and chopped chives. Some people also love jalapeños!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch Oven over medium heat. Sauté the onion in the olive oil until translucent and then add the chopped garlic and sauté for 2 minutes or until fragrant. Add the beef to the onion and garlic mixture and chop up and sear until browned throughout.

Simmer
Stir in the Chili Seasoning and stir until fully combined, approximately 2 minutes. Stir in the beef broth and the crushed tomatoes and continue to stir and bring to a simmer. Cover the chili and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour for the most tender and flavorful chili.

Serve and Garnish
Once the chili is finished serve the chili in individual and garnish to your liking! Crunchy corn chips, shredded cheese, chopped chives and sour cream is my go to, but you can customize this to your liking!

Tips for the Best No Bean Chili Recipe

Don't Rush the Simmer-Time is key for tender and flavorful chili! Allow the chili to slowly simmer 45 minutes to 1 hour for the best flavor.
Make it ahead-Chili tastes even better the next day!
Customize the heat-Adjust the cayenne or add jalapeños to kick it up a notch with spices.

Why Does't Texas Chili Have Beans?

Traditional Texas Chili does not have beans because the meat and the spices are the focus!

How do I thicken my Chili without beans?

Simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes if you need to reduce the amount of liquid. This recipe has some broth that adds a delicious flavor along with the meat.

What should I serve with the No Bean Chili

Cornbread, Crackers, corn chips (fritos), cheese, sour cream and chopped chives are all great options and add texture and flavor.

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