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Keto Chili Recipe (Low Carb Chili)

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Let's make an easy, Low-Carb Keto Chili recipe made with savory ground beef, warm chili seasoning, and canned tomatoes– and it's delicious, y'all! Not only is this chili guilt-free, but I'll teach you how to make it in the Instant Pot, slow cooker, or even on the stovetop! That way, you can choose whichever method is most convenient for you.

A bowl of chili with all the fixings with a pot of chili in the background.
Table of Contents

We all know how cluttered the kitchen can be when cooking a big meal for family and friends! If you need to free some space on the stove for another delicious recipe, make your Keto Ground Beef Chili in the slow cooker or Instant Pot. On the other hand, if your slow cooker is occupied, no problem! Make this tasty and comforting chili recipe in the instant pot or on the stove. Isn't life always a little easier when you have plenty of options?

A traditional chili recipe has kidney beans in the sauce. But not this low-carb chili recipe. This no-bean chili is rich and full of delicious flavors the whole family will love. Whether you have picky eaters, dieters, little ones, or go-with-the-flow hungry mouths to feed, this Keto Chili is sure to please!

We think chili is a great way to warm up on cold days. So, if this best chili recipe is a hit, try other delicious keto recipes like my Keto Pretzel Dog or Bagel Dogs—YUMMY! Or maybe you're craving more great options for easy meal prep with a healthy twist. In that case, you'll have to check out this Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken recipe.

And the icing on the cake (or should I say the cheese on the chili)? All the recipes I've mentioned are perfect for game day!

Ingredient Notes

A labeled image of ingredients needed for keto chili recipe.
  • Olive oil: To really make this recipe shine, use quality olive oil with a mild flavor to sauté the onions and garlic and brown the ground beef.
  • Onion and garlic: Diced onion and minced fresh garlic cloves are the base of the seasoning and flavor of this delicious chili recipe. I use a yellow onion, but you can use white onion.
  • Ground beef: This is a beanless chili, so the ground beef is the star of the show! In this case, I recommend using quality ground beef over a more inexpensive pick. Also, to stick with the low-carb goal and keto standards, choose the leanest ground beef you can find at the grocery store. This also helps the chili to be less greasy.
  • Beef broth: Beef broth thins out the chili and adds a rich, savory flavor.
  • Seasonings: To bring this recipe to life, season it with spicy chili powder, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of smoky cumin.
  • Tomatoes: Using a variety of tomatoes for the keto chili adds an additional layer of flavor, so be sure to add a can of diced fire-roasted tomatoes along with a simple can of diced tomatoes. Of course, you can use all fire-roasted or regular diced tomatoes if you prefer.
  • Tomato paste: Finally, bring a robust tomato flavor to the tomato sauce by using a can of tomato paste.
  • Green chiles: Last but not least, pour in a can of diced green chiles for a subtle kick of spice.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Swap Out the Meat: If ground beef isn't your thing, this chili is just as tasty when you use ground turkey or ground chicken instead. You could even use a combination of ground beef and pork. Try chunks of chicken thighs, breast, steak, or even chuck roast. Or why not use a combination of them all?
  • Extra Vegetables: Want extra veggies? Saute some green or red peppers in with the onions and garlic.
  • Boost the Savory Notes: Bring your ground meat to the next level by cooking it with garlic powder and bacon pieces!
  • Sweet & Savory: Like a little sweetness add in some Worcestershire Sauce (about 1 tablespoon or two). While Worcestershire sauce technically isn't keto this small amount won't hurt and it adds an even deeper savoriness to the chili.
  • Let the Creative Juices Flow: We love getting creative over here! Try serving your keto chili in green peppers, on a bed of lettuce, or with creamy homemade slaw over a hot dog.

How To Make the Best Low-Carb Chili Recipe

✱ Be sure to see the recipe card below for exact ingredients and instructions!

Numbered collage images of steps to make low-carb keto chili.

STOVETOP INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1 | Cook the Onions and Garlic

You can also make this entire recipe on the stovetop! Start by adding the chopped onions and some olive oil to a large saucepan. Once the onions become clear, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or so.

Step 2 | Brown the Ground Beef

Then, add the ground beef to the pan and brown it until no pink remains. You'll want to drain the fat by placing the meat onto a plate lined with paper towels before continuing with the recipe.

After draining the excess grease, add the ground beef back to the pan and move on to the next steps.

Step 3 | Add the Remaining Ingredients, Simmer, and Serve

Stir in the beef broth, seasonings, and canned tomatoes and mix until the ingredients are well combined. Finally, bring them to a simmer and cook for around 1 ½ to 2 hours or until the chili is nice and thick.

TIP:  If you would like to cook the chili more quickly you can simmer it over medium heat for about 45 minutes.

A pot of keto chili with no beans being scooped out with a silver serving spoon.

SLOW COOKER INSTRUCTIONS

Two side-by-side images of ingredients added to the slow cooker and the second image of the ingredients stirred together in the crock pot.

Step 1 | Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Before taking out the slow cooker, place a skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Carefully pour the olive oil and chopped onions, cooking for about 5 minutes. When the onions are translucent, add the garlic and cook for a minute longer.

Step 2 | Cook the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for around 7 to 10 minutes as you use a spatula to break it apart. You're ready to move on to the next step once the ground beef is thoroughly browned.

Step 3 | Add the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Now, set out your crock pot and transfer the ground beef, onions, and garlic to the pot. Pour in the remaining ingredients, like the beef broth, seasonings, and tomatoes, and stir until they are well combined.

Step 4 | Cook the Chili and Serve

Finally, close the lid to your slow cooker and allow the chili to cook for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. After a few hours, it's time to serve your slow-cooker keto chili!

A crock pot filled with keto chili scooped out with a silver ladle.

INSTANT POT INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1 | Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Start your easy Keto Chili by setting the Instant Pot to sauté. While you wait for it to heat up, dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves.

Once the pot is nice and hot, add the olive oil and chopped onions and cook for only 4 to 5 minutes stirring with a wooden spoon. Then, when the onions are translucent, drop in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2 | Cook the Ground Beef

Now add the ground beef to your Instant Pot and cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once the ground beef is browned, check to see if there is a large amount of excess grease. If so, go ahead and drain it on paper towels.

Then, pour the beef broth and deglaze the pot by scraping up any bits on the bottom.

Step 3 | Add the Remaining Ingredients and Pressure Cook

Next, add all the remaining ingredients to the Instant Pot and stir to mix them with the onions, garlic, and ground beef. Press "Cancel" to stop the sauté function, place the lid on, and close to lock. Then, set the Instant Pot to "Manual High Pressure" for 30 minutes to pressure cook the chili.

Step 4 | Natural Release and Serve

Finally, allow a natural release and serve your delicious low-carb chili.

Tips

  • For a Thinner Crockpot Chili - If you want a thinner chili, add a little more beef broth or water to the mixture before closing the lid to cook.
  • Use Quality Meat- I suggest picking out quality lean ground beef for this recipe. There are no beans in this chili recipe, so the meat has the spotlight! Therefore, you want it to be good quality for the tastiest results.
  • Spice it Up- For a keto chili with some heat, include extra spices like cayenne pepper or jalapeños in your recipe!

Recipe FAQ's

What toppings are good for keto chili?

Keep the meal keto and low-carb while still enjoying some delicious chili toppings! Try different cheeses, like sharp cheddar or pepper jack. I think cheese, sour cream, and even bacon pieces are the best way to top chili.
Or, top your chili bowl with colorful veggies, like green onions, black olives, bright red tomatoes, or crisp shredded lettuce. Or put this chili over the top with mashed avocado, tangy sour cream, and bacon bits!

What veggies can you add to a low-carb chili?

If you're craving more veggies in your keto chili, try adding red, green, or yellow bell peppers. More excellent options include zucchini, eggplant, or even cauliflower.

How is this keto chili recipe different from the typical chili recipe?

For one, this keto-friendly chili does not include carb-loaded beans. Some chili recipes also use granulated or brown sugar to enhance the savory flavors and butter rather than olive oil. Without these classic yet fattening ingredients, you can enjoy your chili without worrying about the excess carbs.
 
Trust me; you're not missing out. Even the biggest carb-lovers will devour this mouthwatering keto chili!

How do you thicken chili?

This chili is naturally a thick chili. However, if you want your chili even thicker, you only need to cook it for longer on a low heat setting. As the ingredients simmer, the moisture evaporates, which gives it a thicker consistency. For stovetop and slow cooker versions, you could also omit the beef broth. It is necessary to use the broth in Instant Pot so that you do not get a burn notice.

What to Serve with Low-Carb Ground Beef Chili

This hearty low-carb chili is great on top of a hot dog for a chili dog variation. Just omit the bun to stay keto. Serve the buns on the side for anyone that may want to indulge.

For those not sticking to a strict ketogenic diet, serve this flavorful chili with equally-tasty bread to sop up the tomatoey goodness! Try my easy recipe for Cheesy Green Chile Bread or this easy Air Fryer Texas Toast Garlic Bread.

Keto Chili also pairs beautifully with a light and refreshing salad. Serve a crowd with this phenomenal Columbia Restaurant's 1905 Salad, or go classic with my Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons- just leave the croutons off for those cutting carbs.

An overhead shot of two bowls of chili garnished with sour cream, cheese, and chives, and a pot of chili on a white table.

Storage

Store the Leftovers in the Fridge: Let me first say I am SHOCKED if you have leftover chili. At my house, the family practically fights over who gets the last few servings.

Nevertheless, this recipe does store pretty well. Like with many soups, stews, and chilies, this recipe is EVEN BETTER the longer it sits. Cover the chili with foil or plastic wrap, or place it in an airtight container. Then, store it in the refrigerator for three days.

To reheat, warm the chili in the crockpot or on the stovetop until it's heated through. Of course, you may also microwave the recipe to quickly and effortlessly reheat it. Just be careful not to make your microwave messy, and use a small silicone mat or paper towel to prevent splashing as it heats.

Freeze: Save your chili leftovers for a rainy day by placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Other Hearty Recipes

For even more cold winter days ahead, try these delicious meals.

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A bowl of no bean chili topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, a slice of jalapeno, and green onions.

Keto Chili Recipe (Low Carb Chili)

Author: Nikki Lee
4.65 from 214 votes
Low-Carb Keto Chili recipe made with savory ground beef, warm chili seasoning, and canned tomatoes– and it's delicious! Not only is this chili guilt-free, but I'll teach you how to make it in the Instant Pot, slow cooker, or even on the stovetop! That way, you can choose whichever method is most convenient for you.
Print Save Pin Recipe Rate
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Natural Release (For Instant Pot) See Below for all cook times 15 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 10 cups
Calories 337 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 to 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup onion, diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 ½ pounds ground beef, very lean
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 4 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon 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
 

STOVETOP INSTRUCTIONS

  • Sauté Onions & Garlic: Heat oil in a dutch oven, non-stick pan, or skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and cook the chopped onion for 4 to 5 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, breaking apart with a spatula until browned. Drain on paper towels if there is excess grease.
  • Add the Remaining Ingredients and Cook: Then add the remaining ingredients, stir to combine, and reduce to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 1 ½- 2 hours, until desired thickness. 

SLOW COOKER INSTRUCTIONS

  • Sauté Onions & Garlic: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and cook the chopped onion for 4 to 5 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for a minute.
  • Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, breaking apart with a spatula until browned. Drain on paper towels if there is excess grease.
  • Transfer to Slow Cooker, Add Remaining Ingredients: Transfer the ground beef mixture into a slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients, and stir until combined.
  • Slow Cook: Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Serve.

INSTANT POT INSTRUCTIONS

  • Sauté Onions & Garlic: Select the sauté setting on the Instant Pot. Once the inner pot is hot add olive oil, and the chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Cook Ground Beef: Then add in the ground beef. Cook for 7 -10 minutes breaking apart with a spatula until browned. (drain on paper towels if too much grease is produced). Pour in beef broth deglaze by scraping up any bits on the bottom of the insert.
  • Add Remaining Ingredients & Pressure Cook: Add the remaining ingredients, to the Instant Pot and stir to combine. Press Cancel to stop the saute function. Place lid on and close to lock. Then set to Manual High Pressure for 30 minutes to start pressure cooking.
  • Release Pressure and Serve: Let the pressure cooker naturally release (about 15-20 minutes) and serve. If you are in a hurry, you can manually release, but I love the flavor after a natural release.

Video

✱ Nikki's Tips

    • For a Thinner Crockpot Chili - If you want a thinner chili, add a little more beef broth or water to the mixture before closing the lid to cook. You can even add broth at the end to adjust if needed.
    • Use Quality Meat- I suggest picking out quality lean ground beef (I use 93% lean 7 % fat) for this recipe. There are no beans in this chili recipe, so the meat has the spotlight! Therefore, you want it to be good quality for the tastiest results. 
    • Spice it Up- For a keto chili with some heat, include extra spices like cayenne pepper or jalapeños in your recipe!
TO STORE: Chili tastes even better the longer it sits before serving it. Store cooled chili in the refrigerator covered or in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
TO FREEZE: Once completely cooled chili in an airtight freezer-safe container and store in the freezer for up to 6 months. Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
TO REHEAT: Chili heats well in the microwave in 30 to 60 second intervals or warm over low heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 cup Calories: 337 kcal Carbohydrates: 10 g Protein: 35 g Fat: 17 g Saturated Fat: 6 g Polyunsaturated Fat: 9 g Cholesterol: 101 mg Sodium: 858 mg Fiber: 4 g Sugar: 5 g

Nutrition Disclaimer

Soulfully Made is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Updated on January 17, 2023, to add step-by-step images and stovetop instructions.

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  1. Shelby says

    Such a delicious low carb but hearty chili. Love it!

    Reply

  2. justin says

    Added some red pepper flakes for heat and it was a hit!

    Reply

  3. Holley says

    5 stars
    I've been looking for a good chili recipe since I got my new instant pot and this did not disappoint! Love this chili recipe!!!

    Reply

  4. Beth says

    5 stars
    This looks so good! This is perfect for keto eaters or for people who just don't like beans. I can't wait to make it!

    Reply

  5. kushigalu says

    5 stars
    Drooling over this beef chili recipe. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

  6. Becky says

    5 stars
    This has become our favorite red chili recipe. I sometimes use half beef, half turkey , and use a bit less chili powder. I don’t miss the beans.

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      I am so glad you are enjoying this Chili! We make this one more than any of my other red chili recipes too. Thank you for stopping in to let me know!

      Reply

  7. Michelle says

    5 stars
    Great family loves it it

    Reply

  8. Ashlee says

    Wondering if ground turkey would taste the same?

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      I haven't tried it with ground turkey but it should work. I think the flavor would be a little different than ground beef, but would love to hear how it turns out for you.

      Reply

  9. Beverly J Jones says

    This chili recipe looks great. Just started KETO and have been checking out a lot of posts. Yours really fit the bill. I saw from several comments some people not liking beans, but my husband and I both love beans. I found black soybeans and am in the process of ordering them. They have 5 net carbs per half cup compared to kidney beans at 16 carbs so will be giving them a try. Thank you so much for posting! 🙂

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      You are so welcome! Thank you! I am sure the black soybeans will be a delicious addition. After you add it take a look you may want to add a little more liquid.

      Reply

  10. Medmom says

    Just finished putting all the ingredients together...cooking on the stove. I had a little more than 1 1/2 lbs of lean ground beef so I used 1/4 c of chili powder and one can of fire roasted tomatoes...seems like enough. I’m cooking it on low so the flavors hopefully meld together well. I’m in no hurry, lol, it’s 0 degrees outside so this will be great for dinner. I’m making some homemade green chili cheese cornbread to go with it...can’t wait to try it...already smelling delicious!

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      I bet is smells heavenly! Oh and that cornbread sounds divine! I hope you enjoy! Have a beautiful weekend!

      Reply

  11. Anastasia Ockerman says

    Hi. Is anyone ever added green beans instead of regular canned beans? Not sure if green beans Keto friendly 🤔

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      I usually do not put beans in this chili. I have not ever tried green beans in it.

      Reply

      • Cindy says

        In chili?????????

  12. Linda Oliver says

    I made this on the stove top the store did not have fire roasted tomatos they had fire roasted tomato salsa so I used that I also added a pack of hot sausage it is delicious. I like beans in my chili but my husband and doesn't so I will add my beans in my bowl when I eat it along with some hot sauce. Thankyou so much for sharing your recipe

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      Thank you so much Linda! It's great to improvise sometimes when you don't have an item for a recipe! Hot sausage sounds delish for this recipe! We love it at our house!

      Reply

  13. Saira says

    Hi Nikki, can I add a bag of cauliflower rice to bulk it up?

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      Saira, I have not tried that. I would think it would work nicely. I would love to know how it turns out!

      Reply

  14. Heather Rios says

    Do I drain the canned tomatoes and green chilis?

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      No you do not need to drain them.

      Reply

  15. Amanda Simmons says

    I’ve made this several times in the crock pot and it always turns out great. Unfortunately, I tried doing it in the Insta Pot tonight and it kept burning. Has anyone else had this problem?

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      Amanda, I haven't had an issue with this one going to burn before? Just make sure nothing is stuck to the bottom. Next time try pouring in the beef broth and scraping up any stuck bits at the bottom. Then add back in the beef and remaining ingredients.

      Reply

  16. Margaret S. Lentz says

    Diced green chilis. Are they hot? I love chili but can't physically eat spicy.

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      They do have a little spiciness, but are not overly hot. You can usually find them in a mild variety or just omit all together.

      Reply

  17. Stephanie says

    Made this for dinner last night and me and hubby loved it! So flavourful and filling!

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      Thank you Stephanie! I am so glad you both loved it! It is a flavorful chili and comes together so quickly!

      Reply

  18. Jaimie says

    What cheese do you usually use to top it with? I also see little green flakes in the picture.....what do you sponge on top?

    Reply

    • Nikki Lee says

      In the picture I have some cilantro on top with sour cream and shredded colby cheese.

      Reply

  19. Beverly says

    I made this for dinner tonight. I have issues with beans, so this recipe was perfect! Yummy!

    Reply

    • Nikki - Soulfully Made says

      I am so glad you enjoyed it Beverly! Thank you so much!

      Reply

  20. Mary Anne says

    I made this tonight and it was delicious! I only had 1 1/2 lbs of ground beef and I didn’t care to omit them so I used a can of black beans. Everyone raved! Will make this my go-to chilli. ??

    Reply

    • Nikki - Soulfully Made says

      Thank you Mary Anne! You def can add in beans and it is so delicious! I love how easy and quick it is. You will find this on our table often too!

      Reply

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