Carnivore Keto Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that will warm you from the inside out, you’ve come to the right place! This Carnivore Keto Chili is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s packed with flavor, super satisfying, and best of all, it comes together in just about 40 minutes. Whether you’re trying to stick to a keto diet or just want a comforting bowl of goodness, this chili hits all the right notes.

One of the special things about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up something that feels indulgent and homey. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or serving at your next get-together. Your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of prep, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone loves a good chili; this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Rich and Satisfying: The combination of beef and bacon gives each bite a delicious depth that is hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Carnivore Keto Chili uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Gather these items and get ready for a delightful cooking experience!

• 1 lb. ground beef (80/20)
• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter

Variations

What I love about this Carnivore Keto Chili is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add some veggies: For extra nutrition, toss in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini while cooking.
• Change the spice level: If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños!
• Top it off: Serve with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for a burst of freshness.

How to Make Carnivore Keto Chili

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. This step not only adds flavor but also renders fat that will help cook the ground beef. Once it’s nice and crispy, remove the bacon and set it aside while leaving the grease in the pan.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to that delicious bacon grease in the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step is crucial because browning adds depth and richness to your chili.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Drain excess grease if needed (you want some fat for flavor). Then, stir in the cooked bacon. Next, pour in the beef broth along with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper. These spices will infuse your chili with fantastic flavors!

Step 4: Simmer Away

Now it’s time to let everything simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally until your chili thickens beautifully. Simmering allows all those lovely flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 5: Finish with Butter

For an extra touch of richness, stir in butter during the last few moments of cooking. Let it melt into your chili before serving hot.

Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy!

Ladle your Carnivore Keto Chili into bowls and enjoy! It’s warm, comforting goodness that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for sharing with family or savored all on your own!

Pro Tips for Making Carnivore Keto Chili

Cooking can be a fun adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll take your Carnivore Keto Chili to the next level!

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for grass-fed beef if possible. It not only enhances the flavor but also offers better nutritional value, making your chili even more satisfying.

• Don’t Skip the Bacon: Cooking the bacon first not only adds depth of flavor but also provides a delicious fat that helps cook the ground beef evenly, resulting in a richer chili.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste. Adding more cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can really personalize the heat and smokiness of your dish.

• Let It Simmer Longer: If time allows, simmering the chili for an additional 10-15 minutes can help meld all those wonderful flavors together, creating a heartier and more complex dish.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding diced bell peppers or zucchini towards the end of cooking for some texture and additional nutrients without straying from carnivore principles.

How to Serve Carnivore Keto Chili

Serving your Carnivore Keto Chili is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this comforting dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild oniony crunch that complements the richness of the chili.
• Shredded Cheese: For those who enjoy dairy, a handful of shredded cheese on top can bring creaminess that balances out the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms in garlic butter provide an earthy complement to your chili while keeping it low-carb and packed with flavor.
• Cauliflower Rice: This versatile side mimics traditional rice but fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle. Just steam or sauté until tender and serve alongside.
• Avocado Salad: A simple salad made with diced avocados, lime juice, and salt can offer a refreshing contrast to the warm chili, bringing healthy fats into play.
• Zucchini Chips: Crispy zucchini chips make for a fantastic crunchy snack while enjoying your chili. They provide a great texture contrast without piling on carbs.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set for a delightful meal that’s not only satisfying but also aligns perfectly with your dietary choices. Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Carnivore Keto Chili is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy weeks. Let’s dive into how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious chili.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the chili into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down completely if you haven’t already.
• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label each bag/container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

Can I make Carnivore Keto Chili without bacon?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to skip bacon, simply use more ground beef or add extra spices for flavor. The chili will still be hearty and delicious!

How can I spice up my Carnivore Keto Chili?

If you want to add more heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper or adding other spices like red pepper flakes. You can also top your chili with fresh herbs for extra flavor!

What are some serving suggestions for Carnivore Keto Chili?

This chili is fantastic on its own but pairs well with sides like a simple green salad or avocado slices. Enjoy it with your favorite keto-friendly toppings too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Carnivore Keto Chili as much as I do! It’s a cozy dish that warms you from the inside out and is perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying alone during a quiet evening at home. Remember, cooking should be fun and satisfying. Dive in, savor each bite, and let me know how yours turns out!