30 Minute, No Bean Texas Chili

Eten en Voeden
Nov 13
3 min read

When you’re craving that deep, smoky, hearty flavor of real Texas chili — but don’t have all afternoon to let it simmer — this 30-minute version hits the spot. It’s thick, bold, and loaded with tender beef and rich spices… no beans, no fluff, just pure chili goodness.

What Makes It “Texas” Chili

Traditional Texas chili is all about the meat. No beans. Just seasoned beef, peppers, spices and a slow-cooked flavor that’ll make you want to grab a bowl and a hunk of cornbread. This quick version keeps that same spirit — but speeds things up with a few smart shortcuts.

Ingredients for 30 Minute, No Bean Texas Chili

Serves 4–6

1.5 pounds ground beef
2 tablespoons oil (olive or avocado oil)
1 small onion, finely diced
2 poblano peppers, diced
1/2 pepper, color of choice, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili seasoning
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 bay leaves
3 cups beef broth (add more or less for chili thickness desired)
28 oz fire roasted tomatoes
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced onions, jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro

Instructions for 30 Minute, No Bean Texas Chili

Brown the Beef: Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the Aromatics: Stir in diced onion and peppers. Cook for 5 minutes or until soft. Add garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Add 1 teaspoon salt and pepper.
Bloom the Spices: Add chili seasoning. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their flavor.
Build the Base: Mix in tomato paste, coating the beef evenly. Add diced tomatoes. Slowly pour in the beef broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
Simmer: Add bay leaves and Worcestershire sauce. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 15 -25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors come together. The longer you cook this, the thicker it will get.
Finish Strong: Remove bay leaves. Stir in lime to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Garnish: With all your favorite chili things: sour cream/ yogurt, lime, cilantro, cornbread, cheese

Serving Ideas for 30 Minute, No Bean Texas Chili

Spoon it over cornbread or baked potatoes.
Serve it hot-dog-style for the best chili dogs ever.
Or keep it classic — just a warm bowl with your favorite toppings.

Why You’ll Love this 30 Minute, No Bean Texas Chili

✅ Ready in 30 minutes

✅ No beans, no fuss — just bold, beefy flavor

✅ Perfect for game day, weeknights, or meal prep

✅ Freezer-friendly and even better the next day

Storage Tips for 30 Minute, No Bean Texas Chili

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.

This quick Texas chili proves you don’t need hours to get that rich, authentic flavor. One pot, 30 minutes, and dinner’s done — now that’s how you do chili, Texas-style.