Low Carb Chili Recipe
Low Carb Chili Recipe is a deliciously hearty dish that warms you up while keeping your carb count low. This chili is perfect for family dinners, game days, or meal prep for the week ahead. With its rich flavors and easy preparation methods, you can whip up this tasty dish in the Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stovetop. Enjoy every satisfying bite guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe fits well into your busy schedule.
- Flavorful and Filling: Packed with spices and savory beef, this chili satisfies your cravings without excess carbs.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Choose between the Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop methods for maximum convenience.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week with easy reheating options.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Enjoy a comforting bowl of chili that fits within your low-carb lifestyle.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Low Carb Chili Recipe efficiently, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Slow Cooker
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Instant Pot: Quickens cooking time significantly while infusing flavors deeply.
- Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; perfect for busy days while you’re out.
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for stovetop cooking; ensures even heat distribution.

Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 to 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion (diced)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
For the Chili
- 2 1/2 pounds ground beef (very lean)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 4 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
For the Tomatoes
- 1 14.5 ounce can fire roasted tomatoes (diced)
- 1 14.5 ounce can tomatoes (diced)
- 1 6 ounce can tomato paste
- 1 4 ounce can diced green chiles
How to Make Low Carb Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in your chosen pot over medium heat.
1. Add diced onion and minced garlic.
2. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3–5 minutes.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot.
1. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Spices and Broth
Stir in the chili powder, sea salt, black pepper, and cumin.
1. Mix well to coat the meat evenly with spices.
2. Pour in beef broth and stir to combine.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Simmer
Add fire roasted tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and diced green chiles to the pot.
1. Stir everything together until well mixed.
2. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low.
Step 5: Cook Until Perfectly Blended
Let your chili cook for about 30 minutes on low heat.
1. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Enjoy your Low Carb Chili Recipe as a wholesome meal that delights!
How to Serve Low Carb Chili Recipe
Serving your Low Carb Chili Recipe can elevate the experience and make it more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to serve your chili that will delight your guests or family.
In a Bowl
- Serve hot in a bowl with a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for added flavor.
Topped with Avocado
- Add diced avocado for a creamy texture that complements the spicy chili.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley to enhance the visual appeal and add freshness.
On a Bed of Greens
- For a lighter option, serve over a bed of mixed greens or spinach instead of traditional rice or bread.
As Chili-Stuffed Peppers
- Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with chili for a fun and colorful presentation.
With Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt balances the heat and adds creaminess.
How to Perfect Low Carb Chili Recipe
To ensure you achieve the best results with your Low Carb Chili Recipe, consider these handy tips.
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Use Lean Meat: Opt for very lean ground beef to reduce fat content while keeping it flavorful.
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Customize Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference; start small and add more if desired.
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Let It Simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer enhances the flavors. If using an Instant Pot, let it naturally release steam for extra tenderness.
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Incorporate Vegetables: Feel free to add diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients without significantly increasing carbs.
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Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Chili Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Low Carb Chili Recipe can create a complete meal. Here are some great options to consider:
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Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to traditional rice that absorbs flavors well.
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Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini adds texture and is perfect for soaking up chili sauce.
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Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread: A savory cornbread made with almond flour keeps carbs low while adding flavor.
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Avocado Salad: Fresh avocado salad brings healthy fats and freshness that complement the chili’s warmth.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: Large mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs offer a delightful bite-sized side.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide crunch and nutrition alongside your hearty chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Low Carb Chili Recipe experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using Too Much Spice: Adding excessive chili powder can overwhelm the dish. Start with the recommended amount and adjust according to your taste.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful chili. Always sauté until browned for depth in flavor.
- Neglecting to Taste: Failing to taste as you cook can result in an unbalanced dish. Regularly sample your chili and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Overcooking: Cooking for too long can cause the ingredients to break down. Stick to the recommended cooking times for optimal texture.
- Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient broth can lead to a dry chili. Ensure there is enough liquid to keep the consistency rich and hearty.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Low Carb Chili Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Low Carb Chili Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until hot, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Low Carb Chili Recipe:
How Can I Customize My Low Carb Chili Recipe?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. Adjust spices based on personal preference.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, this Low Carb Chili Recipe stores well and flavors develop over time, making it ideal for meal prep.
Is This Chili Suitable for Meal Prep?
Absolutely! It maintains its flavor and texture when stored properly, making it perfect for meal prepping.
What Should I Serve with My Low Carb Chili Recipe?
Consider serving with avocado slices, shredded cheese, or low-carb crackers on the side for added texture and flavor.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that fits well within the low carb framework while adding lean protein.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste and dietary preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or toppings—enjoy making this hearty dish your own!
Low Carb Chili Recipe
Warm up your evenings with this delicious Low Carb Chili Recipe, a hearty dish that balances rich flavors with a healthy twist. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or meal prep, this chili is quick to prepare and can be made in an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stovetop. Enjoy the comforting blend of spices and lean beef while keeping your carb count low—every satisfying bite is guilt-free!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop/Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion (diced)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 1/2 pounds ground beef (very lean)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 4 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 14.5 ounce can fire roasted tomatoes (diced)
- 1 14.5 ounce can tomatoes (diced)
- 1 6 ounce can tomato paste
- 1 4 ounce can diced green chiles
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent (3–5 minutes).
- Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in chili powder, sea salt, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well, then pour in beef broth.
- Add fire roasted tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and diced green chiles. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
