Name: Keto Chili Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds of ground beef; 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) beef broth; 4 tablespoons of chili seasoning (homemade or half a packet); 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 1/2 onion, chopped (fresh or frozen); 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped; Shredded cheese; Sour cream; Diced onions; Jalapenos

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 73 reviews

If you are craving a hearty and flavorful dish that perfectly fits a low-carb lifestyle, this Keto Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s packed with rich, savory ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and just the right blend of spices, creating warmth and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re gathering with friends or simply want a delicious meal to enjoy on your own, this chili blends the best of classic comfort food with keto-friendly ingredients to keep you on track without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows six cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center left, a black plate holds two layers of raw ground beef, the meat is red with a textured surface of thin strands. Above the plate is a small white bowl with a light green powder inside. To the top right is a large white bowl filled with a dark brown liquid. To the right bottom of it is a small white bowl filled with reddish brown spice powder. Below the plate, there is a whole red bell pepper with a green stem. To the right of the bell pepper is a white bowl filled with a smooth bright red sauce. At the top left corner is a large white onion. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward making this Keto Chili Recipe truly shine. Each component adds something special, from texture and color to layers of flavor that meld together beautifully as the chili simmers.

2 pounds of ground beef: The hearty base of the chili that delivers protein and rich flavor.
1 can of crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz): Adds a luscious, slightly chunky texture and deep tomato taste.
1 can of tomato sauce (14 oz): Provides smooth tomato richness that balances acidity.
1 can of beef broth (14.5 oz): Enhances depth with savory umami complexity.
4 tablespoons of chili seasoning: A dynamic spice blend that brings warmth, heat, and aroma; homemade or store-bought works well.
1 teaspoon of garlic salt: A convenient way to add pungent garlic flavor and seasoning in one go.
½ onion, chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and texture as it cooks down.
½ red bell pepper, chopped: Contributes color, gentle crunch, and a hint of natural sweetness.
Shredded cheese or sour cream (optional): Perfect for topping to add creaminess and a cooling contrast to the spices.

How to Make Keto Chili Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating a large stock pot and adding your ground beef. Using something like a Pampered Chef mix n chop makes breaking up the meat effortless, ensuring an evenly cooked base. For variety and a lighter touch, mix half ground beef with half ground turkey—it’s economical and you won’t miss the difference in flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Once your meat is browned, toss in the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cooking these softens their texture and unlocks natural sweetness, which complements the spicy chili seasoning.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Liquids

Sprinkle in your chili seasoning and garlic salt, then pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything well to combine all those bold flavors before moving on.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil then Simmer

Turn up the heat to bring the chili mixture to a boil. Once bubbling, lower the temperature and cover the pot with a lid. Letting it simmer—stirring occasionally—gives the spices time to meld and the meat to absorb all that delicious tomatoey goodness.

Step 5: Let Flavors Meld

Allow it to simmer for at least 30 minutes, though an hour works even better if you have the time. This slow cooking deepens the flavors and results in a rich, comforting bowl of chili that’s truly satisfying.

Step 6: Serve with Your Favorite Toppings

When the chili has thickened and the flavors are beautifully combined, it’s time to serve. Add shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and jalapeños as you like for a personalized touch.

How to Serve Keto Chili Recipe

A red pot filled with thick ground meat sauce simmering in a rich, deep red tomato base with small pieces of red bell pepper evenly spread throughout. A wooden spoon with a smooth brown handle rests inside the pot, slightly lifting some of the chunky sauce. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface, showing a clean and bright background. The sauce texture is dense but saucy, with visible bits of meat and vegetables throughout, and the pot’s inside edges have some sauce stains. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

One of the best parts of this Keto Chili Recipe is how customizable the garnish is. Classic shredded cheddar cheese adds melty richness, while a dollop of sour cream provides a refreshing balance to the chili’s heat. Freshly diced onions or sliced jalapeños bring a sharp crunch or spicy punch—totally up to your taste buds.

Side Dishes

To keep your meal keto-friendly but complete, pair this chili with crisp salads, steamed low-carb veggies, or even cauliflower rice. These sides complement the hearty chili without adding unwanted carbs, making every forkful a delight.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by serving this chili in low-carb bread bowls made from almond flour, or spoon it over baked zucchini boats. You can even scoop it into avocado halves for an impressive and nutrient-packed presentation that’s sure to wow guests or family members.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Keto Chili Recipe is fantastic because the flavors deepen overnight. Store your chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. It can last in the freezer for up to three months without losing much of its flavor or texture, making it perfect for meal prep.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw frozen chili overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove over low to medium heat. Stir often to prevent sticking and to ensure even warming. Add a splash of beef broth if the chili thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this Keto Chili Recipe and can reduce the fat content slightly while maintaining a delicious taste. You can even mix turkey and beef for a perfect balance.

Is this chili spicy?

The heat level depends on your chili seasoning. You can control the spice blend to your liking, making it mild, medium, or spicy. Adding jalapeños as a topping also lets you customize the kick.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the meat and sauté veggies first, then transfer everything into a slow cooker to simmer for several hours. This hands-off method results in tender meat and deeply developed flavors.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

The chili itself is naturally dairy-free since the optional cheese or sour cream is added at serving time. If you avoid dairy, simply skip those toppings or use dairy-free alternatives.

What’s the best way to thicken the chili if it’s too thin?

If you find the chili a bit watery, letting it simmer uncovered for a longer time helps reduce excess liquid. Alternatively, adding a small amount of cream cheese or shredded cheese while cooking can thicken it up nicely without adding carbs.

Final Thoughts

This Keto Chili Recipe is a definite keeper and one I find myself returning to again and again. It’s full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try it out—you’ll love the comforting warmth and hearty satisfaction this dish brings, all while keeping your keto goals on track.

Keto Chili Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need