Classic Low Carb Chili
Classic Chili is one of the easiest meals we make - and it’s the perfect satisfying meal when you need something cozy and family friendly. It uses simple ingredients, comes together quickly, and has all the rich, hearty flavor of traditional chili - without all the extra carbs!
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.
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!
Recipe:
1lb Ground beef
½ medium onion, diced
15 oz can kidney beans, drained
15 oz jar chunky salsa
1 Cup tomato sauce
3 oz tomato paste
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
¼–½ cup beef broth
Optional Garnishes
Avocado slices
Cheddar Cheese
Sour Cream
Instructions
1. 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.
2. 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 onions soften and the spices become fragrant.
3. Add the remaining ingredients
Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chunky salsa, and the drained kidney beans (if using). Stir until everything is combined.
4. Adjust with broth
Add ¼–½ cup beef broth depending on how thick you like your chili.
5. Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for 20–30 minutes. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor becomes. We often just put it in a crockpot on low until we’re ready to serve!
6. Serve and enjoy
Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, or avocado for a delicious low-carb meal.
Macros - Makes 6 servings
Calories 232, Fat 12, Carbs 16g, Fiber 6g, (Net Carbs 10) Protein 15g
The Keto Dad Tips and Tricks:
Tips for Keeping It Low Carb
• Reduce the beans: This makes the chili significantly lower in carbs. But if you’re really looking for a Keto option, just make our beanless chili!
• Choose the right salsa: Pick a low-sugar salsa or check labels to avoid added sugars. The one we use has 2g carbs for 2 Tbsp.
• Boost the protein: Add more beef or even mix in ground turkey.
• Add veggies: Zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers work great and add more volume without the carbs.
This recipe freezes great - make an extra batch!
Recipe video:
Classic Low Carb Chili
