Slow Cooker No Bean Chili
Made with two types of ground beef and loaded with flavor, you’ll never miss the beans in this Slow Cooker No Bean Chili!
You’ll also love this Instant Pot No Bean Chili, Slow Cooker Pizza Chili, and Turkey White Bean Chili!
I’ve been a chili fanatic for as long as I can remember!
The spicy flavor and mixture of meats, veggies, and beans fits perfectly with a hunk of cornbread.
My husband loves chili too, though not as much as myself. However, he doesn’t like it with beans. Yep, you heard that right, friends…no beans!
It must be a texture type thing, because you really can’t taste the beans once they’re cooked. Am I right?
So when we both got a craving for chili years ago, I compromised and made this slow cooker chili recipe with no beans.
I’ve been making this chili recipe without beans for many years, as it’s a staple in my household during the winter.
Besides being the BEST chili recipe with no beans , it’s also a breeze to whip up!
No-Bean Chili Ingredients
This beanless chili is a cinch to make! Here’s what you’ll need to make it:
- Lean ground beef
- Ground chuck
- Tomato sauce
- Diced tomatoes
- White onion
- Green bell pepper
- Spices
- Granulated sugar
- Salt and pepper
How to Make No-Bean Chili
Never made chili without beans? It’s just as easy as making classic chili. Here’s how I make this chili recipe with no beans:
- Brown the two types of ground beef in a skillet.
- Drain the beef and add to the slow cooker along with the remaining beanless chili ingredients.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Serve with your favorite toppings!
How Long to Cook Chili in a Crockpot?
I recommend cooking the no bean chili on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Cooking chili low and slow helps the flavors develop and makes for a better bowl of chili overall.
Can I make no bean chili on the stovetop?
While you can certainly make this on the stove in a little over an hour, I love whipping out my slow cooker for this dish. The flavors blend together and create such a delectable taste. And it makes your house smell wonderful, too!
Can I make no bean chili in an Instant Pot?
If you’d like to make this chili recipe with no beans in an Instant Pot, I recommend checking out my Instant Pot No Bean Chili recipe. I give detailed instructions on how to make beanless chili in an Instant Pot in that post.
How to Store:
Leftover chili will last in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Does Chili Freeze Well?
Yes! Since this chili is made without beans, it freezes and reheats like a dream. Store in airtight containers for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to serve, let thaw completely in the refrigerator.
My Favorite Chili Toppings
This chili recipe with no beans can be enjoyed as is or you can pile on the toppings.
Here are some of my go-to chili toppings:
- Diced jalapeño
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Oyster crackers
- Diced avocado
What to Serve with Chili
Serve this no bean homemade chili with a side of my homemade Skillet Honey Cornbread or Skillet Buttermilk Cornbread, and you have yourself a delicious meal, perfect to beat the winter-blahs!
I also love serving no bean Crockpot chili with Cheesy Cornbread Muffins or even Cheddar Biscuits.
Tips for Making Chili Without Beans
- Because I omitted the beans, I used one pound of ground beef and one pound of ground chuck. This makes the beanless chili extra meaty and definitely makes up for the lack of beans.
- Of course, you can definitely add in beans if that’s what you prefer, it’s delicious either way!
- It’s very easy to customize this chili based on your preferences. You can add in as much or as little chili powder and spice as you would like. I’ve played around with this recipe a lot over the years and found the perfect combination for me.
Other Ways to Eat No-Bean Chili
My favorite way to eat this beanless chili is straight from the bowl, with some cheese sprinkled on top. However, you can also serve no-bean chili in one of the following ways:
- On Frito pies
- Atop chili dogs
- Over baked potatoes
- Over spaghetti
Looking for more slow cooker recipes? I’ve got you covered!
- Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs
- Slow Cooker Beef Stew
- Slow Cooker Barbecue Pulled Pork
- Slow Cooker Honey Balsamic Pork
Slow Cooker Hearty No-Bean Chili
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 pound ground chuck
- 2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce, see note below
- 2 (15 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, (drained)
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 small white onion, (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper, (diced)
- 5-6 tablespoons chili powder
- 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic, (or 2 teaspoons garlic powder)
- ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown and crumble ground beef and ground chuck until cooked through. Drain and add to slow cooker.
- Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, onion, pepper, minced garlic, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, chili powder, sugar, oregano, salt and pepper to slow cooker. Stir to combine. **See note below**
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Serve with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream, if desired.
Notes
- Chili will look too liquidy but will absorb once it cooks.
- The amount of chili powder listed in this recipe is 5-6 tablespoons. If you feel this is too much, adjust it to meet your tastes.
- After several reader comments about the chili being too watery, I changed the quantity from two (29 ounce) cans to two (15 ounce) cans of tomato sauce.
- For instructions on how to make no bean chili in an Instant Pot, check out my Instant Pot No Bean Chili Recipe.
- Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- See my tips and tricks for making this Slow Cooker No Bean Chili above the recipe box.
Photos updated 10/2020
My husband is exactly the same – he loves chilli, but not the beans. Personally I think he is crazy.
I am pinning this 🙂
Sounds like this chili is made for your husband then, Dannii! Thanks for pinning!
What if I used half venison and a half ground beef?
Hi Terry! I’ve never tried that so I can’t say for sure, but it sounds like it would turn out. Hope you enjoy!
Just way way way too much tomatoes, tomato paste, sauce, diced tomatoes. Way too much. It just tastes like a gigantic bowl of tomatoes. Did I mention tomatoes?
Sorry to hear that, B.K. I’ve never had a problem with too many tomatoes, as that is the base of most chilis, so feel free to decrease that if you try this again.
I’m years and years late on this, but having a day where I’m so done with snark on the internet. Just add more vegetables, a bit more meat, or perhaps just cut out some of the tomato, instead of leaving an entirely unhelpful and rather mean-spirited comment?
Hi Gayle! I’m sorry I’m piggybacking on Dannii’s post here…I can’t find the option to leave a question/comment…I have in the past, with no recollection how I did it…lol….Anyways, I have this favorite recipe filed in a folder…but the picture looks different…this is the same recipe that’s been on here awhile, right? I bought all the ingredients, I’m ready to roll…It’s my favorite recipe ever! My question is, I’m making a batch for a friend of mine…we both would like it just a little bit hotter!! Can you tell me what to do, so all the spices still mesh….And hopefully with just the ingredients required here…more of such-and-such spice(s)….Thank you for your time…Sorry for the novel!
Hi Andrea! Yes, same recipe, I updated the photos last year. You could add more chili powder or cumin? I’m not sure what else, as I don’t like things too spicy. Hope you enjoy!
Try a jar of Chipotle peppers … really adds a lot of flavor and spice and not super hot.
You could try fire roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular diced for some extra heat.
Great idea, Becky!
Thank you all for your suggestions…and I agree, the fire roasted maters sound like a great idea! And again, I can attest, this is the best chili ever!!!!!! I don’t see how anyone can think otherwise! And thank you for the reminder! I’m so ready for fall, winter meals!
I’m so happy to hear that, Andrea! Chili is perfect for colder weather!
I can’t wait for my family to try this Chili.
I hope you and your family love this, Elizabeth!
How large of a slow cooker would I need to make a double batch?
Hello! My slow cooker is around 6 quarts, so I would use a 7 quart or larger to double the recipe. Hope you enjoy!
So I’ve done meatless chili before but never only meat chili. This looks so good and it would be perfect for my low-carbing dad!
I’ve never tried a meatless chili, Tori! I bet it’s fantastic, though!
When it’s freezing outside, I can’t think of much better! Fantastic recipe, and I love that you can turn it on and leave it alone!
Thanks, Mir!
My husband would totally love this chili, too! He’s been asking for chili for a while… I made a sweet potato chili the other night, but I don’t think it was quite what he was hoping for 🙂 This looks delicious!
I think most men would love this chili since it has double the meat! 🙂 Thanks for the kind words, Sues!
Hearty and robust ~ Gayle this chili looks marvelous. Chili is one of my favorite meals, it’s so filling and I love the cheddar you put on top. My favorite. I’m with you on the beans, I don’t think one can taste them so I throw them in but funnily enough, my husband and father-in-law hate beans (they say , it um causes stomach issues later, Ha, I won’t go into the specifics) so I love your chili recipe that is easy to customize for those picky eaters. Perfect for the super bowl coming up too!!!
It must be a texture thing with the beans! Sounds like this would be a great dish for your husband and father-in-law, Laura! Thanks for the kind words!
Eeee! Girl, we are both TOTAL chili-post blogging buddies today! Great minds definitely think alike. 🙂 I absolutely looooove this chili! It looks so filling and hearty, and I love how much MEAT there is in it! My carnivore brothers will love it. 🙂
Yes! We totally are on the same wavelength, Sarah! Anyone that loves meat would probably devour this in a heartbeat!
I love warming and comforting meals like this during this time of year! My boyfriend also has an aversion to beans which I totally don’t get 🙂 He’d go absolutely crazy for this hearty chili! Yummy!
It must be a texture thing, because I swear you can’t taste the beans in chili! 🙂 Thanks for the kind words, Ceara!
I’m not sure about textures but beanless tastes amazing, goes great on chili dogs and chili burgers etc…but the best part is being able to sleep in bed with your significant other cause no beans = no gas!
You are definitely right, Sharon! I like your thinking! 🙂
Ooooh! I just made a three bean chili, and I have to say it left me craving a hearty meat chili. Want want want!
Chili with double the meat is fantastic, Sarah! Thanks!
I don’t think I’ve ever made chili with only meat. I bet my hubs would go completely bonkers over this though, he’s a total meat guy! I need to try it! Pinning.
I hope your husband loves this chili if he tries it, Jen! My husband goes nuts over this, too. Thanks for the pin, friend!
Gosh this looks good! And that little dollop of shredded cheese on top looks like a little burst of sunshine! I’ll take it!
Thank you, Annie!
YESSSS! I crave hearty soups and stews all the time, so bring on the chili!!! This looks so hearty and filling. Stay warm up there, girl. I remember freezing my a** off all the years I lived in PA, and I feel for you!!
Thanks, Sarah!
It’s too funny that you’re sharing a no-bean beef chili today, because I made a three-bean no-meat chili this weekend! My husband actually prefers to eat vegetarian most nights. I guess I’m lucky in that because I’d rather only eat meat a few times a week as well. I could actually eat it more often than he’d like!
This chili looks delicious, especially with that skillet cornbread! Lovely photos, too!
I’ve never had a no-meat chili before, so I definitely need to try that! I hope you share the recipe, Kristine! 🙂 Thanks so much for the kind words!
Gayle, I feel the same way about winter .. ugh. . we just gotta get through it. . bowls and bowls of this chili will help though! I husband would love this. . loaded with ground beef and everything good. . looks great!!
This chili will help you forget about winter for just a little bit, right? 🙂 Thanks for the kind words, Alice!
While I love beans, I’d gladly go for a bowl of this no-bean version! And chili really does chase away those winter blahs! For me, soup and chili makes winter a happy time, but I also don’t have 3 feet of snow. 🙂 This looks delicious, Gayle! Pinned. 🙂
Chili is just the perfect dish for the winter, Marcie! Thanks so much for the kind words and pin!
Ohhhh I love me some chili! I always crave it whenever I go skiing with my family in the winter since the resorts always sell it at the top of the mountain. Nothing beats a warm bowl and cornbread after a long day of exercise and chilling winds! Great recipe!
Thanks, Christine! Chili is my go-to meal in the winter!
So funny your husband doesn’t like beans in his chili! What a good wife to make a delicious version that is bean free. It’s so cold and rainy here in California today, a bowl of this hearty chili would be just the thing to warm us up!
Thanks, Natalie! This chili is my favorite, even sans the beans!
I also made chili this weekend! Love your version with no beans, though! Will have to try it soon…
Thanks, Olivia! Hope you like it if you try it!
Gayle chili with no beans is a meat lover’s dream come true!! Looks delicious!
Thank you, Ami! It’s so full of flavor and hearty with the meat that you’ll never miss the beans!
Looks like a very comforting meal, especially during this time of the year! 🙂
Thanks, Manali!
I can commiserate with you about the cold weather. I just can’t wait until it reaches above 20 degrees! This chili looks amazing and perfect for cold winter days. I love that you didn’t add beans (not my favorite in chili) Looks amazing Gayle!
Thank you, Kelley! I like beans in my chili, but I have to say that this meat version is my favorite!
It’s been so cold over here too and I can’t think of anything better than a big bowl of chili and some cornbread to warm up with! This looks so deliciously hearty and comforting, Gayle! Haha my husband feels the same way about beans. He is a big meat-eater so he would absolutely go nuts over this gorgeous chili! 🙂
Sounds like our husbands would get along great, Kelly! 🙂 Thanks so much for the chili love!
I love how thick and hearty your chili looks! I agree that not liking beans is a texture thing. My daughter won’t go near them and she’s really picky about textures of foods. If it feels funny in her mouth, it’s a no go.
It’s so funny how texture can change the taste of food. Thanks for the kind words, Christin!
I actually like the idea of no bean chili, double the mead, please 🙂 . And my slow cooker is my best friend, when I decide to make some! Pinning and will definitely try them!
Thanks, Mira! I hope you love this chili if you try it!
This chili is ALL I am craving right now.. it looks so hearty and comforting. I would love to make this dish but it’s summer here in Australia so I have saved the recipe for when it gets cool again!
Thanks, Thalia! And I’m so jealous of your summer weather…send some this way, please! 🙂
I can’t say that I love beans, but I do like them in chili! I think mostly because of all the fiber and protein I know I’m getting. But I don’t think they’d ever be missed in this case — looks incredible!
Thank you, Ashley! You would never miss the beans in here!
I would love a big bowl of this chili on this cold winter day! I try to make chili at least once a week and need to add this to my menu soon!
It definitely hits the spot! Thanks, Ashley!
That’s exactly the right meal for these cold winter days! I haven’t made chili in eons, definitely need to soon. Such a great comfort food in the winter!
Isn’t chili just perfect for the winter? Thanks, Stacey!
I make meatless chili often, and sometimes with chickpeas instead of beans. Never tried meat-only chili!! good one, Gayle! loving the vibrant pictures!!
Chickpeas sound like a great addition, Savita! I’ll have to try that! Thanks so much for the kind words!
I’m with you on the whole winter thing, but I love that I get to cook comfort meals a lot more, chili included. I’ve never made chili without beans before, but i will certainly have to try this recipe next time Gayle. It looks delicious.
Thanks, Kathy! I hope you like this if you try it!
There are sooo many great flavours in this chili, Gayle! I’m a bean-lover myself, but I wouldn’t say no to a big scoop of this with that beautiful-sounding corn-bread.
Thanks, Helen!
Oh my goodness Gayle, single and negative digits. I don’t even know how I would function. I think its 75 here today in California. Come visit me!! 🙂 The hubby doesn’t like beans? Any types or just in his chili. I love the beans 🙂 !! But this no bean chili looks out of this world delish!! I need this when the weather cools! Pinned!
I would love to be in sunny California right now, Cyndi! My husband doesn’t like the type of beans that goes in chili, though he does eat green beans. Thanks for the kind words and pin, Cyndi!
Whoa, those pics are making me have a serious chili craving! I love to get a big bowl and top it with cheese. Then I get those Fritos Scoops and go to town! Bookmarking this recipe!
Oh yum! I love your idea of using fritos with this chili, Leah! Definitely trying that out next time. Thanks for the pin, friend!
I’m with you – one of my favorite parts about winter is all the soup / chili I make! My husband would loveeeeee this version! It looks fantastic!
Thanks, Ashley! My husband devoured this…definitely a winner in my house!
You are so right!! This just screams comfort food to me!! It looks delicious and nourishing! 🙂
Thanks, Cailee!
Chili is definitely one of the better parts of cold weather!! And chili made in the slow cooker is my fave– so easy! This one sounds delish!
Thanks, Jess! This is my favorite dish, too!
Chili with no beans!? Soooo basically you get all the yummy chili flavor with WAY more meat? That sounds terrific!! Pinned 🙂
Double the meat is always good, right?! 🙂 Thanks for the kind words and for stopping by, Melissa!
Chili isn’t supposed to have beans. It’s not chili if there are beans.
Good to know, Lori!
My family likes chili especially in the fall/winter however my hubs is similar in not liking the beans. I personally believe chili should NOT have beans anyways. Finding a yummy not soupy recipe has been hard. Going to give this a try Sunday 🙂
I think you and your husband will love this chili, Nikki! I’ve been making it for years and it is so flavorful and hearty. Please let me know how you liked it if you get the chance! 🙂
How many servings do you think this makes? I am hosting a party tomorrow and stumbled upon this when looking for bean-less chili (I too don’t understand but lots of my guests don’t like beans!).
Hi Kari! It serves between 5-6 people. I hope you and your guests love this if you make it!
Have this in the crockpot as we speak! My husband is weird about beans too, so this seemed like a recipe I could compromise for! Thanks!
I hope you and your husband love this recipe, Cori! It’s the only chili my husband will eat, and he loves it! 🙂 Thanks so much for stopping by!
I tried this chili and ate one small bowl and threw the entire pot away. Yuck
I’m so sorry that you didn’t like this chili, John! I’ve made this many times and have always had good success.
I think i’m going to be doing the same. It doesn’t taste very good at all.
I was skeptical about the 58oz of tomato sauce & dadly, rightfully so. It’s more like soup than water & very acidic . I even used about 4 tablespoons of corn starch & it’s still really watery.
Also an oddity, the recipe doesn’t call for salt?
I’m very sorry this didn’t work out for you, Daniel. I have never had an issue with it being watery and have had many positive reviews on this. And as for the salt, with all of the spices and flavor it really isn’t needed. That’s more of personal preference, so definitely not an oddity. Thanks for stopping by!
Thanks, Gayle. Just to clarify – the tomato sauce – that’s supposed to be two, 29oz cans and not two 9oz cans?
Hi Daniel! Yes, I used two 29 ounce cans of sauce. Since you add two pound of meat and also tomato paste, it should thicken up quite nicely. If your chili was soupy, maybe decrease that by a can? I have never had that problem, though. Thanks!
Dear Gayle, this looks wonderful! What a delicious and cozy recipe for during the week. xo, Catherine
Thank you, Catherine! It’s one of my favorite dishes!
HI Giving this a try, I had to change it up a little due to my allergies to onion and garlic, we will see how well it is received tonight at the Chili party.
Hi Patricia! I hope you love this chili! Please let me know how it turned out for you!
HI it came out great! I had a hard time finding black olives from the can so I get the fresh ones from the salad bar. It was a huge hit. I will make it again.
I’m so glad you liked it, Patricia! Thanks so much for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out!
I Love beans and make a separate pot of them and only add the amount I want when heating the Chile, as it’s Always better the next day. I use a Mexican based recipe for the beans which gives them a nice flavor. And besides, now I get Many more servings from this recipe. And without beans this is Perfect for topping my Chile Dog. Thanks for a Great recipe.
The temps are hovering around triple digits these last few days, but who cares, Chile is Always Good.
PS, I frequently put chopped raw onion on top with the cheese, it gives a nice crunch.
Hi Bill! That’s a great idea to make a separate pot of beans and add as you like. I’m going to have to try that. And I agree with you, chili is always good, no matter the temperature. Thank you for the kind words and for stopping by!
My kids are allergic to legumes/beans, and I never thought of just leaving them out because my husband says chili isn’t chili without them! Have this in the crock pot for tonight’s supper (first really cold weather we’ve had) and it smells AMAZING! Hubby says it smells even better than HIS mother’s recipe…and that’s impressive. Chopped the ground meat super-fine so we can ladle it over pasta. Perfect comfort food!
I hope you and your family LOVE this chili, Christy! I do like beans in mine, but I actually prefer this meaty, no-bean version more. Definitely great comfort food and such a good idea to ladle it over pasta. Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope you enjoy!
Your chili recipe is in the crock pot as I type – my son doesn’t like soup at all, but he LOVES chili (no beans – the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree). Smells delicious! Thanks for sharing your recipe!
I’m so glad you are trying this recipe, Teresa! I hope you and your son love it. It’s my favorite chili and my no-bean loving husband can’t get enough of it. Thanks for stopping by to let me know!
We are allergic to legumes so this recipe is perfect! Just wondering, how many servings do you estimate for this recipe? I am going to serve this for NYE and need to serve 9 adults and 12 kids. Thanks!
Hi Melissa! This serves roughly around 6 people. Hope you love this if you try it and thanks for stopping by!
I had never made chili before and made it today in my new slow cooker. It’s a winner!
I had avoided chili most of my life because I dislike beans, but happened to have it a couple times last year and really liked it – I love spicy food and discovered I didn’t taste the beans very much. Still, when it came to making my own chili I prefer to leave them out so this recipe was perfect for me.
Unlike some comments above, it thickened up nicely, perhaps due to the length of time in the cooker. Excellent flavor. Thanks very much!
Best wishes,
Laura
Hi Laura! Thanks so much for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out! I’m so glad you liked this chili. It’s one of my favorites, and you don’t miss (or need) the beans. Thanks again!
First time making chili w/o beans. Needed a change and it turned out really good. Family really enjoyed the spicy flavor w/o having the beans drown it out. Thanks!
Hi, Carole! I am so gad this chili turned out well for you. It’s definitely nice for a change and is one of my favorite meals. Thanks for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out!
I was slightly confused about the amount of tomato sauce to use, seemed like a lot. I couldn’t find 29 oz cans at my local Kroger so I used 4 (15 oz) cans. I was pretty excited about this but after making it, I was a little disappointed. I felt it had potential to be really good. Mine wasn’t soupy but it was definitely way too much tomato sauce. I think I’m gonna try it again with just two (15 oz) cans of tomato sauce. Thanks for posting the recipe though.
Hi Mike! So sorry to hear it didn’t turn out for you. I’ve never had a problem with the consistency. Have a great day!
Hey Gayle-
My kids won’t touch a kidney bean so this recipe was just what I was looking for. Since my previous attempts at chili all
Came from a can (don’t judge me 🙂 ) we were all happy to have a home made flavorful
Bowl of chili. I had a ‘soupy’ problem as well so I think I’ll cut down on a can of sauce next time, but otherwise this is a great recipe. Thanks!
Hi Connie! I’m so glad you enjoyed this recipe. Sorry it turned out soupy for you, but hopefully it will be better if you try it again. Thanks so much for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out!
This recipe looks fabulous. Would I need to change anything to the cook time or amount of meat used if I was to use ground turkey instead of beef?
I am so glad you loved this, Kimberly! I’ve never used ground turkey before, but I think it would most likely cook the same amount of time. Thanks for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out!
I love this recipe! I never put beans in my chili(UGH) but never thought about double the meat. I use two cans of chili ready tomatoes,a whole onion chopped, garlic, 2 Tbsp chili powder, 2 tsp cumin, and 1 15 oz can tomato sauce. This sounds very good and will use next time I want chili. I also like the idea of a pot of beans for the ones who want them. Yeah, all taken care of.
Hi Rebecca! Sounds like you would love this! Hope you enjoy!
Is it two 29 oz cans of Tomatoes sauce or 29 oz. total sauce. ?
Hi Tammy! It’s two cans total, so each can is 29 ounces. Hope this helps!
Wow thanks for getting back to me so quickly! I made it tonight and it made soooo much I wanted to make sure I used the right amount. It was so yummy! My picky son loved it. I will add beans to the leftovers tomorrow for him. He likes beans, I don’t. Thanks for the recipe and the quick rely.
You’re very welcome, Tammy! It does make a lot but it’s good for leftovers! Great idea to add beans in, too. Thanks again for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out. Have a good night!
I’m anxious to try this as it’s for our youth fund raiser. Approximately how many ounces will this make? I have a large crock pot so I might have to double it. I’m not the only one making chili but have to provide a no-bean type and this looks good.
HI Terry! This sounds perfect for a fund raiser! I don’t know how many ounces it makes, but it does make a lot. I would say it easily feeds 6-8 people. Hope you enjoy this if you try it!
I SO appreciate this recipe. For my family, it isn’t a taste/texture issue with beans…It’s an allergy! My husband is allergic to beans. They cause his throat to start swelling shut. I have this recipe in my crockpot right now, and I can’t wait to try it tonight.
I really hope you and your family love this recipe, Gretchen! It’s requested by my husband all the time. Thanks so much for stopping by! Have a great night!
Hi Gayle ! I bought all the ingredients for this and was going to make it tonight and realized it’s for a crockpot. Do you think I could do it over the stove stop ? Or would that ruin it
Thank you !!
Hi Samantha! You could definitely do this on the stove top! I’m not quite sure of the cooking time since I haven’t done that before, but I would follow the instructions listed and then maybe simmer for an hour or so for flavor. Just a guess! Hope you love this and thanks for stopping by!
Hi Gayle,
I have this in the crockpot right now! It has become a New Year’s Eve tradition for my family. Thank you so much for sharing this yummy chili recipe!!
Hi Kelly! I’m so happy to hear that! Sounds like such a wonderful tradition. Thank you so much for letting me know, I appreciate it! Happy New Year to you and your family!
Hi! This recipe sounds delicious! I was wondering if you mean a bell pepper or a jalapeño pepper for the green pepper? Thank you!
Hi Liz! I mean green bell pepper…I will update the instructions if that makes it clearer. Hope you enjoy!
Hello,
I plan to triple this recipe for a party and plan to use only ground beef. Do you foresee any problems with this or have any suggestions? Thank you.
Hi Jessica! I’ve never done that before, but I would think using just ground beef would be fine. Hope you enjoy and thanks for stopping by@
Hi Gayle!
Have you ever browned the meat the night before?
Trying to save time before tomorrow’s Super Bowl party.
Thanks!
Hello! I’ve never done that before, but I don’t see why that wouldn’t work. Sound like it would be a good time saver! Hope you enjoy and happy Super Bowl! 🙂
I’ve done this recipe before and planning to do it again this weekend. My fiancé can’t do beans and definitely love meat so this is an absolute perfect recipe. Easy and delicious! Thank you for sharing!
I’m so glad you and your fiance love this recipe, Anna! My husband doesn’t like beans in his chili either, so he loves this. Thanks so much for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out!
I made it tonight. It was really good. I’ve never made it without beans before. I did leave out 1 tblspn of the chili powder. Since it was the first time doing it I was a little worried about 6 tablespoons. The 5 were fine. 6 probably would have been even better. I also forgot to get a green pepper at the grocery store. That probably would have made it even better, but it was fine without it. My husband kept saying it looked like spaghetti sauce. Which it did. He said he’d be fine with beans next time, but it was good without them. Thank you for a good recipe! It’s always scary trying something new. Especially since I didn’t see a lot of comments with people that actually made it and adjusting this or that. You really don’t need to. It’s totally fine the way it is. I also had cornbread. I like to put it in the bottom of the bowl with the chili on top. Not your recipe, but I think I’ll try that next time. And I did put cheese and sour cream on top. Yum! Once again, thanks! And BTW it makes a lot. So with just my husband and I we have a lot left over. Lots to take to work for lunch! Thanks again!
Hi Krista! I’m so glad you liked this recipe! Cornbread is delicious with this, that’s how I like to eat it, too. Thanks for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out!
After I made this I can’t wait to try more of your recipes!
I’m so glad to hear that, Krista! I hope you enjoy whatever you try! Have a great day!
I’ve made this half a dozen times and I LOVE it!!! It’s perfect for a bean hater like me ???? the taste is phenomenal and the spice is perfect. Seriously the best “no bean” chili I’ve ever had or made. Thank you!!
Thank you so much, Kelsey! Your comment made my day! I’m so happy that you love this. This is my husband’s favorite because he doesn’t like beans, either. Thanks so much for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out! 🙂
Hello! I’m interested in trying this recipe but wondered if any readers have tried making it without the diced tomatoes. Any suggestions as to what I could substitute for the diced tomatoes?
Hi Lisa! You could definitely omit the diced tomatoes if you prefer. I haven’t tried that before, but I would think that regular tomatoes, diced would work, or just not using them at all. Hope you enjoy this if you try it and thanks for stopping by!
Thank you so much for your reply Gayle. If I omitted the diced tomatoes completely, would I need to add more of anything else?
Hi Lisa! I don’t think you would need to add anything else in place of the diced tomatoes, as it really just adds more texture to the dish. The consistency should still be the same. If you try it this way, please let me know how it turned out!
I made this last night….turned out amazing!! I don’t read directions carefully and bought 2 14oz cans of tomato sauce instead of 2 (29 ounce) cans tomato sauce, but it still worked! And I threw in a little quinoa to thicken it up- and get that super grain in there!
I’m so glad you loved this, Andrea! Such a great idea to add in some quinoa! Thanks so much for stopping by and letting me know how this turned out!
I don’t stomach green peppers, or any peppers for that matter, very much. Would it make a huge difference if the pepper was left out of the recipe? Otherwise it sounds like it would be really good!
Hi Rebecca! No, not at all! I sometimes leave the peppers out because my husband doesn’t like them and I notice no difference. Hope you like this if you try it!
I love this recipe. I make it for myself more than my wife would like (she likes variety) but I’ve made this recipe as my base. I triple the meat with 1 lb beef and 2 lbs ground pork. I also leave out the second can of tomato sauce and replace with an extra can of diced tomatoes. It turns out perfect for me!
I’m so glad to hear that, Ryan! Sounds like a great idea to triple the meat and use an extra can of diced tomatoes instead! Thanks for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out!
I’m on about my 5th batch of making this delicious chili!!! I don’t vary much, maybe a little garlic powder, along with clove of garlic…I also add frozen corn, just to bulk it up, making it even more filling, since I don’t like beans at all, in chili!! I try to tell my partner at work about it and she basically says, girl, that ain’t chili then!!! Lol….I tell her how filling, and chunky it still turns out, and dee-lish!! To each their own! Imo, it’s not too many tomato’ish produce to use in the recipe….So glad I came across your recipe!! And I bring my lunch to work daily, so I can easily have this 5-6 days in a row, without getting sick of it!!!
I’m so glad you enjoy this, Andrea! Corn is a great addition! This is my favorite chili too…so good for leftovers! Thanks so much for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out!
I love this recipe, and so glad I stumbled onto it!! There’s not much I change on it at all…I do add frozen corn, (just to help make it even more stocky, and for the crunch-factor)…Tis’ the season…Going to make it this weekend!
I’m so happy to hear that, Andrea! Frozen corn is a great addition, I’ll have to try that! Thanks so much for stopping by and letting me know how it turned out!
Gayle, I have a question…My BFF just had surgery, and wants me to make her chilli! She knows I love mine, however, she wants the dang beans (ugh!)…can I use this same recipe and add her yucky red beans???
Hi Andrea! Absolutely! You could add the beans in place of one pound of the meat or just add them along with the meat, whatever your preference is! If cooking with 2 pounds of meat (since I doubled the meat to make up for no beans) it may turn out a bit thicker.
Gosh, that is such a relief!! I seriously doubt I’d find as good of recipe as this one!! Thank you much!!! Thank you Gayle!!!
This was great!! Family approved! I didn’t have a bell pepper this time around so I just put in 2 cans of black beans. Served on hotdogs & french fries with shredded cheddar cheese, onions, & sour cream. Super delish & easy. Thanks!!
I’m so happy to hear that, Allyson! Thanks for stopping by!
I can’t wait to make this today. What size crockpot do you usually use?
Hi Melissa! I use a 6 quart crockpot for all of my slow cooker recipes. Thanks for stopping by and hope you enjoyed!
Oh man, I’m making it for the first time right now and it’s so much more liquid than meat. I’m surprised no one else mentioned that. It’s still cooking, but I’m guessing it’s not going to reduce the liquid that much.
Kim, it should thicken up as it continues cooking and once it sits. I’ve never had a problem with it being too liquidy.
Gayle, I’m sorry to keep bothering you about this, and I can’t find my original post…So do I put the beans in while it’s in the slow cooker the whole time? She wants the canned red kidney beans (which I have no clue about lol)
Hate to say this but this was not a chili recipe but rather a tomato soup recipe. I saw the comment that it thickens up and it totally did not. Very disappointed as I used some great ingredients.
Sorry to hear that, Brooke! I’ve made this numerous times and have never had that problem.
can you freeze the chili?
it looks like i made too much ??? oops
Hi Amy! Absolutely! I always freeze some after I make it, it will last three to four months in the freezer. Hope you enjoy!
I don’t like beans either so while growing up, my mom blended the kidney beans with the canned tomatoes in a blender. It ended up making a delicious thick chili with no whole beans. It’s a texture thing for sure. Try it for your hubby. I’m trying your way this week for my hubby who can’t have beans right now.
Hope you enjoy this recipe, Deb!
Could this be stored in a ball jar in the freezer? Trying to come up with One person meals for a friend who lives alone and recently broke her wrist.
Hi Kara! I’m thinking that would work because glass is usually freezer-safe. Hope your friend enjoys!
Trying it out today! Thank you!
I hope you love this, Kara!
Did you mean 5-6 TEASPOONS of chili powder?? 5-6 Tablespoons seems like a lot!
Yes, 5-6 tablespoons. It’s a lot of meat, so it works, but you can season to taste if you’re worried.
I was intimidated by this recipe as I’ve never made chili before, but it really did turn out great. There is nothing I would change about this recipe. I did halve it as we’re a two person household and it worked well. I drained excess liquids from the diced tomatoes. I will be making this again!
I’m so happy to hear that, Kelsey! So glad you enjoyed!
Followed recipe as written except cut chili powder down to 4 TBSP, which is still more than I normally use on a standard batch of chili. I think I would back it down to 3 next time, the flavor was a little too overpowering to me. Otherwise, great texture and very easy to make! Will likely make again, but with 3 TBSP chili powder. Thanks for the no-bean chili recipe I was looking for!
Happy to hear you enjoyed, Val!
Are you sure it needs 5-6 TABLESPOONS and not TEASPOONS of chili powder? Cause that seems excessive!
Megan, yes, 5-6 TABLESPOONS, as it’s a lot of chili! If you feel that’s too much for you, feel free to scale it back. But based on all of the reviews, people love it!
Can this be made in a 4 qt. Crock Pot or should I use a 6 qt?
Nevermind, read the comments and saw this was previously asked ? my bad
Hope you enjoy, Brandon!
I absolutely love a tomato-based chili and I never EVER EVER EVER add beans to mine so I was excited to try this recipe as just something different from my own! Thanks for this! Just as a side-note here, I actually have an entire book on the history of chili with so many different recipes in it. In the book it talks about how a bowl of red chili started and I am here to tell you that the VERY FIRST ORIGINAL CHILI… NEVER had BEANS…. OR…. (drum roll please…) TOMATOES! Yep… that is the truth as I know it… NO TOMATOES in the very original first bowl of red. I did try the original chili in the book and it is very tasty… but because I am a tomato lover (as well as my family). I don’t mind breaking from the traditional and using tomatoes! Thanks again for this verison of chili!
So glad you liked this recipe, Elizabeth! Thanks for sharing!
So I followed the recipe to a T and for me it doesn’t seem to be too liquidity, but rather thick. Should I but another can of tomato sauce or what should do so it’s not so thick for when it’s done? First time making chili.
Hi Cheyanne! It shouldn’t be too thick if you followed the recipe, but will probably thin out when cooking. Chili is supposed to be thick, though. You could definitely try adding more sauce or even a bit of water.
Can I cook it for 6 hours? If I wanted to add a bottle of beer, would it still work and when would I add it? I keep hearing Guinness is great in chili.
You could definitely cook for 6 hours! I’m not sure about adding beer, I’ve never tried that before so I don’t know how it would turn out. Hope you enjoy!
My family loved this Chili! I prefer beans in my chili, but the rest of them don’t eat beans so I gave this recipe a shot and it was a big hit! My picky daughter who hasn’t been eating beef lately even loved it! Will definitely make again.
I’m so happy to hear that, Tricia! It’s a favorite around here too!
Can you make with steak? Why would the recipe look like if you used steak? What kind? Love the recipe as is, but want to make with steak.
Hi Paul! I’ve never made this with steak, so I have no idea what kind to use. Hope you enjoy!
Made this for my family tonight and they loved it. I am not a huge fan of tomatoes but wanted to give it a try. I felt like there was a little too much tomato going on and it felt a little too runny for me personally but the kids/my husband loved it.
Glad everyone enjoyed!
One of the best I have had!
I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed it, Gina!
This recipe is great !!! I used Raos spicy tomato sauce because I forgot to buy it when I went shopping and it gave it a nice kick. I only used about 14 oz perfect texture !
I’m so glad you enjoyed, Jean!
what can be done if it’s too thick? my level of cooking expertise is: first time living on my own i can finally make toast without burning down the house. so be as simplistic as you can be, this is my first big cooking project, thanks.
If it’s too thick, you could thin it out a bit with some tomato sauce or possibly a touch of water. I’ve never had that problem before, so I can’t say for sure, as chili is supposed to be thick and not thin like soup. Enjoy!
Hi! I haven’t tried this recipe yet… Certainly in the process of cooking in the crock pot. 😄 I just noticed after combining all the ingredients the chili looks really thick with no extra juice.. is there anything I can do to make it a bit soupier? Thanks so much!
Hi Jessica! The chili will thin out once it cooks and release juices from the meat. If you’re really concerned about it, you could add a bit of tomato sauce or beef broth. Hope you enjoy!
This recipe was excellent. A little too spicy for my family, though. I just want to make sure I read the recipe correctly. Should I have put 5 tablespoons of chili powder? Or should that have been teaspoons? The recipe calls for 5-6 tablespoons. Thank you for your time.
Hi Kristin! I’m glad you enjoyed! Yes, it should be 5-6 tablespoons, as it’s a lot of meat and ingredients. You could also cut down on the amount if it’s too spicy.
I have made this yesterday and it turned out so yummy, definitely will be adding this on my schedule. Thank you.
So glad you enjoyed, Inna!
Made a few slight adjustments to accommodate my family’s preferences but this was a great recipe. Thank you!
Glad to hear that!
Teaching my son cooking. I had my son make this today. Tastes amazing. I had three different chili powders on hand so heused two Tbls of each plus he used fire roasted tomato’s. The flavor was amazing. Thanks for the recipe. My new go-to chili recipe.
Glad you and your son enjoyed, John!
I love this recipe! I use 1 lbs of ground beef and 1 lbs of stew meat, and it adds a wonderful texture!
Stew meat is a delicious addition! I’m so glad you enjoyed!
What are the spices ?
Carol, you need to look at the recipe box towards the bottom of the page to see all of the ingredients and instructions.
This looks great. Can I throw some corn in there?
Of course, enjoy!