Keto Chili

Name: Keto Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 1/2 cup celery, chopped; 1 jalapeno, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 14 1/2 ounces diced tomatoes; 3 ounces tomato paste; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 cup bone broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: September 8, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling – This chili is packed with protein from ground beef, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying dinner.
Easy to Prepare – With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
Flexible Ingredients – Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!
Great for Any Occasion – Serve it at family gatherings, game nights, or just as a cozy meal at home.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your kitchen adventures.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet – A good skillet allows even cooking and browning of meat, ensuring your chili has great flavor.
Chef’s Knife – A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
Measuring Spoons – Precise measurements ensure that your spices balance perfectly for the best flavor.

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1 jalapeno, finely chopped
4 cloves minced garlic
6 slices Turkey Bacon
14 1/2 ounces diced tomatoes
3 ounces tomato paste
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon oregano
2 teaspoons paprika
1 cup bone broth
salt and pepper, to taste
cheddar cheese, for topping

How to Make Keto Chili

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Turkey Bacon until crispy.
Drain on paper towels and set aside. Leave a thin layer of grease in the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onions, celery, and bell pepper to the skillet.
Cook until crisp and tender.
Mix in the ground beef and cook until completely browned; drain excess fat.

Step 3: Add Spices and Jalapeno

Stir in jalapeno and minced garlic; cook for about 1 minute.
Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, and paprika. Stir well for about another 30 seconds.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Chop the cooked Turkey Bacon into pieces and add it back into the skillet.
Reduce heat to low; add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Simmer

Pour in bone broth and stir well.
Let simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.
Serve topped with shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy!

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 409 calories | Carbs: 6 grams | Protein: 37 grams | Fat: 25 grams | Fiber: 3 grams

How to Serve Keto Chili

Keto chili is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Toppings

Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for a creamy and rich flavor that complements the chili.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast to the spicy chili, enhancing the overall taste.
Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices provide a creamy texture and healthy fats that pair well with the chili.

As a Main Dish

Over Cauliflower Rice: Serve keto chili over cauliflower rice for a satisfying low-carb alternative to traditional rice.
In Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with chili for a fun and low-carb way to enjoy the dish.

In a Bowl

Classic Bowl Style: Simply serve in a bowl with your favorite toppings for an easy and comforting meal.
Chili Dogs: Top grilled turkey or chicken sausages with keto chili for a delicious twist on classic chili dogs.

How to Perfect Keto Chili

Creating the perfect keto chili is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

Bold Spices: Increase the amount of chili powder and cumin for an extra kick of flavor that brings depth to your chili.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions bring vibrant flavors and textures, making your chili even more enjoyable.
Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps meld flavors together, resulting in a richer taste.
Adjust Consistency: If your chili is too thick, add more broth; if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to thicken up.

Best Side Dishes for Keto Chili

Pairing side dishes with your keto chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Garlic Breadsticks: Low-carb breadsticks made from almond flour are perfect for dipping in keto chili.
Zucchini Fries: Crispy baked zucchini fries offer a crunchy side that complements the softness of the chili.
Cauliflower Mash: Creamy cauliflower mash serves as a hearty side that mimics mashed potatoes without the carbs.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with cheese and spices make an excellent addition alongside hearty bowls of chili.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinaigrette balances out the spiciness of the keto chili.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and flavor, perfect for dipping into any leftovers of your keto chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Keto Chili experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth or tomatoes can make your chili watery. Stick to the recipe amounts for the best consistency.
Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland chili. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices as needed during cooking.
Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Sauté until just tender for the best texture.
Skipping the simmer: Rushing through the simmering process may prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow time for the chili to meld together.
Not allowing leftovers to sit: Eating chili right after cooking may not showcase its full flavor. Let it rest for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Keto Chili

Use freezer-safe containers for storage.
Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date.

Reheating Keto Chili

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying Keto Chili.

What is Keto Chili?

Keto Chili is a low-carb version of traditional chili that substitutes high-carb ingredients with keto-friendly alternatives while maintaining rich flavors.

Can I use other meats in Keto Chili?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or lamb can be excellent alternatives to beef in this recipe.

How is Keto Chili different from regular chili?

Keto Chili has lower carbohydrates due to the absence of beans and higher fat content from meat and cheese, making it suitable for ketogenic diets.

How do I customize my Keto Chili?

Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

This Keto Chili is not only savory and hearty but also adaptable to your tastes. Whether you prefer extra spice or additional veggies, you can customize it easily. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion!