When the craving for something warm, hearty, and flavorful strikes, nothing beats a bowl of chili. But what if you’re on a keto diet? No worries! This Healthy and Easy Keto Chili recipe is here to rescue your taste buds and your macros. Packed with rich spices, tender beef, and low-carb veggies, this dish proves you can enjoy comfort food while staying on track.
Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
🛒 Essential Ingredients
- Ground beef (80/20): High fat for that juicy, tender texture.
- Bell peppers: A splash of color and crunch without the carbs.
- Diced tomatoes: Look for no-sugar-added varieties.
- Beef broth: Adds depth and richness.
- Spices: Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a touch of cayenne.
- Cauliflower rice (optional): The perfect low-carb side to bulk it up!
✅ Tips for Success
- Use high-quality beef: 80/20 ground beef provides the perfect fat-to-protein ratio for keto.
- Don’t skip the spices: They’re the heart of this dish and give the chili its depth.
- Meal prep: Make a big batch and refrigerate or freeze portions for quick lunches or dinners.
🔄 Variations
- Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese and sour cream. Add more avocado for creaminess.
- Extra Protein: Toss in cooked, shredded chicken or diced sausage.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground beef alternative.
Healthy and Easy Keto Chili
4
servings10
minutes25
minutes280
kcalIngredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado slices, fresh cilantro
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Base
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and fragrant. - Cook the Ground Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high.
Add 1 lb of ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
💡 Tip: The internal temperature of the beef should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. - Add the Vegetables
Stir in diced bell peppers (green and red). Cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften slightly. - Incorporate the Spices
Reduce the heat back to medium.
Sprinkle in the following spices:1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Stir well to coat the beef and veggies evenly. Toast the spices for about 1 minute to enhance their flavor. - Combine the Liquids
Add the following ingredients to the pot:1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
Stir everything together until fully mixed. - Simmer the Chili
Lower the heat to medium-low.
Cover the pot partially and let the chili simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the liquid to thicken slightly.
💡 Tip: Keep the heat gentle—just a light bubbling, not a rapid boil. - Final Taste Test
Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences. - Serve and Garnish
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite keto-friendly garnishes:Sour cream
Shredded cheese
Avocado slices
Fresh cilantro
🥄 Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
🥳 Pro Tips for Gym-Goers
Pair this chili with a side of cauliflower rice for extra volume without the carbs. It’s a great pre- or post-workout meal that keeps you full and energized.
💬 Let’s Hear from You!
What’s your favorite chili topping? Share your ideas in the comments below! Don’t forget to save this recipe for later and share it with your gym crew. 🌟
