This no bean chili recipe is packed with beef, sausage, and smoky spices. It's hearty, low carb, and perfect for game day or weeknight dinners.

This no bean chili started because my husband Josh loves chili but isn't a fan of beans. He wanted something meaty and satisfying. So I began with ground beef and added his secret ingredient: maple breakfast sausage. The hint of maple rounds out the smoky spices and makes this chili taste richer than you'd expect from a bean-free pot. It's become our go-to for game days and cold nights.

Why You’ll Love This No Bean Chili

Two types of meat give this chili a deep, savory flavor that beans can't match.
The maple sausage adds a subtle sweetness that balances the chili powder and smoked paprika.
It comes together in about 45 minutes, with only 30 minutes of simmering.

Key Ingredients for No Bean Chili

Maple breakfast sausage: The subtle maple sweetness balances the smoky chili spices. If you can't find maple sausage, use any breakfast sausage and add 1 teaspoon of maple syrup or brown sugar to the pot.
Fire roasted tomatoes: They add a smoky, slightly charred flavor that regular diced tomatoes lack. Look for cans labeled "fire roasted" in the tomato aisle.
Smoked paprika: This gives the chili a deep, smoky undertone. Regular paprika works in a pinch, but the flavor will be milder.

Kitchen Tools for No Bean Chili

Large pot or Dutch oven (for even heat and enough capacity)
Wooden spoon (for breaking up meat)
Slotted spoon (for transferring meat)

Tips for Making the Best No Bean Chili

For the best flavor, use a mix of ground beef and sausage. Josh swears by maple breakfast sausage, the hint of maple adds a subtle sweetness that complements the smoky spices. You can substitute any sausage you like, or swap the beef for ground turkey if you prefer. I use one green and one red bell pepper, but orange or yellow work just as well. Fire roasted tomatoes are key here; they bring a deeper, slightly charred flavor that canned tomatoes can't replicate. Let the chili simmer for the full 30 minutes so the spices meld together. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking.

Expert Tips for Perfect No Bean Chili

Browning the meat properly is important. Cook it over medium-high heat without stirring too much at first, so you get some browned bits on the bottom of the pot. Those bits add flavor. When you add the vegetables, scrape them up. If the chili seems too thick after simmering, add a splash of beef broth to loosen it. Taste and adjust salt and spices at the end, different sausages have different salt levels.

Slow Cooker No Bean Chili Instructions

To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, brown the ground beef and sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, then transfer to the slow cooker. Sauté the onion and peppers in the same skillet until soft, add garlic, then add to the slow cooker. Stir in the tomatoes, tomato sauce, paste, broth, and spices. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

No Bean Chili Variations to Try

You can easily change up the protein. Ground turkey or chicken work well in place of the beef, and spicy Italian sausage gives the chili a kick. For a milder version, use sweet Italian sausage and reduce the chili powder to 1 tablespoon. If you want more heat, add a diced jalapeño with the peppers or stir in a teaspoon of chipotle in adobo. To make this in a slow cooker, brown the meat and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

What to Serve with No Bean Chili

Serve this chili with your favorite toppings. Shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro are classic choices. For a heartier meal, pair it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side of rice. A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors right before serving.

How to Store Leftover No Bean Chili

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, so it often tastes even better the next day.

How to Freeze No Bean Chili

This chili freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Leave a little room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Best Ways to Reheat No Bean Chili

Reheat the chili on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of beef broth or water. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.