Name: Hearty Paleo Chili: Comfort Food Without the Carbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Grass-Fed Ground Beef (lean beef (5% fat recommended)); 1 lb Italian Sausage (Spicy Italian recommended); 8 oz Bacon (sugar-free); 2 cans Diced Tomatoes (28 oz cans, use with juice); 1 can Tomato Paste (6 oz can); 1 medium Yellow Onion; 1 medium Red Bell Pepper; 2 cups Beef Stock (bone broth adds richness); 1 tbsp Minced Garlic (essential aromatic); 1 tsp Dried Oregano; 1 tsp Ground Cumin; 1 tsp Paprika; 1 tsp Dried Basil; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Black Pepper; 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust to taste)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling meat filled the air, transporting me to colder nights spent gathered around the table with loved ones. My heart was set on creating a nourishing bowl of Low-Carb Paleo Chili, a dish that’s not just hearty and utterly comforting, but also completely free from beans. Perfectly crafted for those on a Whole30 or Keto journey, this chili boasts an exquisite balance of ground beef, savory sausage, and smoky bacon, providing a robust flavor without the carbs. One of the best parts is how wonderfully easy it is to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or busy weeknights. Are you ready to dive into this comforting bowl of goodness? Let’s bring this delicious recipe to life!

Why is This Chili So Satisfying?

Hearty and nourishing, this Low-Carb Paleo Chili will fill you up without weighing you down. Flavor-packed, the blend of ground beef, sausage, and bacon provides a rich taste that keeps you coming back for more. Easy to make, it can be whipped up in a matter of minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Versatile, you can easily customize it with spices or veggie additions, making it a go-to dish for family and friends. Plus, it’s Whole30-approved, so you can enjoy it guilt-free! For those craving more chili options, check out my traditional chili or vegan chili recipes as whipping those up can be just as rewarding!

Paleo Chili Ingredients

• Dive into the essentials for a delicious, bean-free chili experience!

For the Meat:
Grass-Fed Ground Beef – A main protein source providing rich flavor and heartiness, lean beef (5% fat recommended) is ideal.
Italian Sausage – Adds depth and a spicy kick; consider using Spicy Italian for more heat.
Bacon – Contributes smokiness; ensure it is sugar-free to comply with Whole30.
For the Vegetables:
Diced Tomatoes (2×28 oz cans) – Provides moisture and acidity; use with juice for best results.
Tomato Paste (1×6 oz can) – Enhances tomato flavor and richness in the chili.
Yellow Onion – Aromatic base that adds sweetness when cooked down.
Red Bell Pepper – Brings crunch and a hint of sweetness.
For the Broth:
Beef Stock (2 cups) – Liquid base that deepens flavors; bone broth adds extra richness.
Minced Garlic (1 tbsp) – Essential aromatic that elevates the overall flavor.
For the Spices:
Dried Oregano, Ground Cumin, Paprika, Dried Basil, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper – A blend of spices that builds complexity, allowing for customized heat levels.

Embark on the flavor journey of this Paleo Chili, and make it your own with these delightful ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Low-Carb Paleo Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meats
In a large stock pot over medium-high heat, add the grass-fed ground beef and spicy Italian sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is well browned and fully cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pot to keep your Low-Carb Paleo Chili lean and flavorful.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a separate skillet, cook the sugar-free bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Once crispy, remove from the skillet and crumble it into small bits before transferring it to the stock pot with the browned meats. This will add a rich smokiness to your chili.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Using the bacon drippings in the skillet, add the chopped yellow onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onions have softened and become translucent. This step will build an aromatic base for your Low-Carb Paleo Chili, enhancing its overall depth of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the stock pot with the meats. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and beef stock, stirring to combine everything. Season generously with minced garlic and the blend of dried spices, including oregano, cumin, paprika, and more to create a deliciously complex flavor profile.

Step 5: Simmer
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing the chili to simmer for at least 2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom, which helps deepen the flavors as it cooks. If time permits, consider simmering longer for an even richer taste!

Step 6: Adjust & Serve
After simmering, taste your Low-Carb Paleo Chili and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding salt, pepper, or additional spices to suit your preference. Serve hot, garnished with toppings such as avocado or fresh chives, and savor the comforting warmth this dish provides.

How to Store and Freeze Paleo Chili

Fridge: Store your Low-Carb Paleo Chili in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to ensure freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in pre-portioned containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: Thaw the chili overnight in the fridge for best results. Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of beef stock if it thickens too much!

Serving: Enjoy your reheated chili topped with fresh avocado, sour cream, or chives for a deliciously satisfying meal any day of the week.

Paleo Chili Variations & Substitutions

Customize your dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs with these delightful options!

Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option that’s still packed with protein.
You’ll maintain the hearty feel, while slightly reducing the overall fat content.
Sweet And Savory: Add diced sweet potatoes or carrots for a touch of natural sweetness and texture.
This variation brings a lovely contrast to the savory flavors, creating a well-rounded dish.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder to enhance the smoky depth.
These spices create a warm, inviting flavor profile that elevates your chili experience.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap out meat entirely and introduce hearty vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for a plant-based version.
This change makes it a fantastic option for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet!
Extra Spice: Amp up the heat by increasing cayenne pepper or adding fresh jalapeños.
Just a little kick can make your chili unforgettable, perfect for spice lovers in your family!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving for a vibrant flavor boost.
This final touch brings freshness that complements the earthiness of the chili beautifully.
Creamy Addition: Stir in coconut milk for a creamy texture and a subtle tropical twist.
It balances the spice in fascinating ways, transforming your chili into a unique dish.

For inspiration on varying your chili recipes, don’t miss my traditional chili or explore delicious vegan chili options as well!

What to Serve with Low-Carb Paleo Chili?

As the rich aromas swirl around you, it’s time to think about the perfect companions to elevate your Low-Carb Paleo Chili experience.

Creamy Avocado Toast: The creamy texture of ripe avocado on whole-grain bread adds a delightful contrast and buttery flavor to the chili’s spices, making each bite a comforting delight.
Crunchy Salad Greens: A crisp salad with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the chili, adding a refreshing crunch that enhances the overall meal.
Cheesy Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative to traditional rice brings a creamy, cheesy element that pairs nicely with the chili’s hearty flavor, soaking up all the luscious sauce.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery garlic breadsticks provide a warm, garlicky bite that complements the savory depth of the chili, making it hard to resist dunking them into the bowl.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies adds a sweet and caramelized contrast to the spiciness of the chili. The smoky flavors from roasting enhance the chili’s taste profile beautifully.
Sweet Cornbread Muffins: For a hint of sweetness, cornbread muffins are perfect. They provide a comforting, slightly sweet flavor that balances the hearty spices, rounding out your meal perfectly.
Chilled Sparkling Water: A refreshing glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime can cleanse your palate between bites, keeping you revitalized as you enjoy the robust flavors of your chili.

Expert Tips for Paleo Chili

Choose Quality Meat: Opt for grass-fed ground beef and sugar-free bacon to ensure your Low-Carb Paleo Chili is both delicious and compliant with dietary guidelines.
Layer Flavors: Sautéing vegetables in bacon drippings isn’t just for flavor; it adds depth. Don’t skip this crucial step to enhance the chili’s complexity.
Simmer Longer: Let your chili simmer for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and create a robust, satisfying taste that’s simply irresistible.
Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by varying the spices. Start with a smaller amount of cayenne pepper and gradually increase based on your family’s heat tolerance to keep everyone happy.
Thickening Tricks: If your chili turns out thinner than you like, return it to a boil for a few minutes while stirring—it thickens right up! This keeps your Low-Carb Paleo Chili hearty and satisfying.

Make Ahead Options

These Low-Carb Paleo Chili is a fantastic option for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the meat and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the best quality, make sure everything is cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. When ready to cook, simply combine the prepped ingredients in the pot with the remaining elements—diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices—and let it simmer as usual. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time when you’re ready to serve! Enjoy a comforting meal that feels just as fresh and flavorful, even when made ahead!

Low-Carb Paleo Chili Recipe FAQs

What kind of beef should I use for the best flavor in my paleo chili?
Absolutely! For a rich and hearty flavor, I recommend using grass-fed ground beef. It typically has a lower fat content (around 5% is ideal) and offers a depth of flavor that enhances your Low-Carb Paleo Chili. Fresh ground beef is the way to go; look for bright red color and avoid any packages that show darkening or discoloration.

How long can I store my paleo chili in the fridge?
Very! You can store your Low-Carb Paleo Chili in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Before sealing, let the chili cool to room temperature to preserve its taste and texture. If you have leftovers, remember to enjoy them within this timeframe for the best quality!

Can I freeze my keto chili, and if so, how?
Absolutely! For freezing, allow your cooked chili to cool completely. Then, transfer it into pre-portioned airtight containers or freezer bags (leaving some room for expansion). You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a little beef stock if it looks too thick!

What if my chili turns out too runny?
No worries! If your Low-Carb Paleo Chili is too thin, you can fix this easily. Just activate the sauté mode on your stove after cooking. Let it simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, stirring often, until it reaches your desired thickness. Adding a bit of tomato paste can also help thicken it up—this will enhance the flavor at the same time!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when serving this chili?
Yes! While this Low-Carb Paleo Chili is wheat and bean-free, it’s always best to check ingredient labels if you’re serving those with allergies. Make sure your sausage and bacon are sugar-free to comply with Whole30 guidelines. If you’re serving it to pets, it’s safer to stick to pet-friendly treats instead, as some spices can be harmful to them.

Can I substitute the meats if needed?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a leaner option, feel free to substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also skip the bacon for a vegetarian adaptation, just remember to boost the flavor with extra spices or smoky seasonings to make your Low-Carb Paleo Chili equally delicious.