Nothing says cozy and comforting like a bowl of chili, and this Classic Low Carb Chili delivers all the rich, hearty flavor you expect with fewer carbs and plenty of protein. It’s the kind of meal that fills you up and brings everyone to the dinner table without fuss or hours in the kitchen.

What makes this version special is its simplicity — everyday ingredients, straightforward steps, and loads of flavor. Whether your family loves chili night or you’re making it for a weeknight meal prep, this recipe fits right into a balanced, low-carb lifestyle.

Spice it up or mellow it down, add more or less broth - this recipe is super customizable.
Serve over riced cauliflower or add avocado on top to make each serving more filling. Check out our tips below! Enjoy!

Reminder: This is one of our family style high protein, LOW CARB meals. This is not a strictly Keto recipe. We’ve got tips to reduce the carbs below, but if you’re looking for our Keto chili, check out our original Keto Chili recipe or our White Chicken Chili.

Why We Love This Recipe

Low carb and protein-forward without sacrificing flavor
Family friendly and approachable for all ages
Simple, easy-to-find ingredients
Can be easily customized or dressed up with toppings
Great for leftovers or meal prep

Ingredients

High protein low carb chili family friendly

For the recipe:

1 lb ground beef
½ medium onion, diced
15 oz can kidney beans, drained (optional for lower carbs)
15 oz chunky salsa
1 cup tomato sauce
3 oz tomato paste
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼–½ cup beef broth (optional, for desired thickness)

Optional toppings:

Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Avocado slices
Green onions
Jalapeños

How to Make Classic Low Carb Chili

Brown the beef
Heat a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add onion and spices
Stir in the diced onion, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and the spices are fragrant.
Add remaining ingredients
Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chunky salsa, and kidney beans (if using). Stir until well combined.
Simmer
Add ¼–½ cup beef broth depending on how thick you like your chili. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–30 minutes. Longer simmering develops deeper flavor.
Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite low carb toppings.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Macros will vary depending on salsa choice and whether beans are included.

Tips and Variations

Lower carb option: Reduce or omit the kidney beans to significantly lower carbs.
Protein boost: Add extra ground beef or substitute ground turkey.
Veggie additions: Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms blend in well and add volume.
Flavor adjustments: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Storage: Stores well in the fridge for several days and freezes beautifully for meal prep.

Why This Recipe Works

This Classic Low Carb Chili is a go-to comfort meal that works for real life — easy to make, satisfying, and flexible enough for the whole family. It’s proof that low carb dinners don’t need to be complicated to be delicious.

If you make this recipe, leave a comment and let us know how you customized it, and be sure to check out more easy, family-friendly low carb meals here on Simple Fun Keto

Recipe video:

Classic Low Carb Chili