This chili is so good and couldn’t be easier to make. No beans, just hearty ground beef, lots of spices, and that slow-cooked flavor we all love. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or game day. And since it’s made in the crockpot, you can just throw everything in and forget about it till dinner. My kids go crazy for it with some cheese and chips on top. Let’s make it!
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional for spice)
👩🍳 Pro Tips
- Brown the beef first! It adds way more flavor than adding it raw.
- Adjust spice for kids. Start mild and let grownups add hot sauce later.
- Use a meat masher while browning the beef to break it up really fine – perfect for picky eaters.
- Let it go low and slow. This chili gets better the longer it cooks.
- Double it. This freezes so well, you’ll be glad to have extra later.
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Crockpot (slow cooker)
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon or meat masher
- Cutting board + knife
- Measuring spoons + cup
- Garlic press (optional)
- Can opener
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken
- Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños
- Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky kick
- Omit cayenne for a kid-friendlier version
- Add corn or sweet potatoes for extra bulk
⏱️ Make Ahead Tips
- Brown the beef and onion the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, dump everything into the crockpot and start cooking.
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Brown the ground beef and onion
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned and cooked through (about 7–8 minutes). Drain any extra fat.
2. Add garlic and cook 1 minute
Add minced garlic to the skillet and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Transfer to crockpot
Spoon the beef mixture into your crockpot.
4. Add remaining ingredients
To the crockpot, add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
6. Stir and serve
Open the lid, give everything a good stir, and serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months
- Reheat on the stove or microwave – add a splash of broth if it’s too thick
🥄 Wrap-Up
This no bean chili is a total crowd-pleaser, super easy to make, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a chilly night, a potluck, or just a busy day, this one’s always a win. Try it out and let me know in the comments how your family liked it—or if you added your own twist! ❤️
