Instant Pot No Bean Chili : A Hearty and Bold Recipe

If you love a thick, meaty chili with bold flavors and absolutely zero beans, you’ve just found your go-to recipe. This Instant Pot No Bean Chili is hearty, comforting, and incredibly easy to make thanks to the magic of pressure cooking. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a low-carb dinner, or simply want a bean-free option that still brings serious flavor, this chili delivers.

Perfect for chilly nights, meal prep, or game day, this recipe is a flavorful twist on classic chili. It’s made with seasoned ground beef, tomato paste, warm spices, and rich beef broth — all pressure-cooked to savory perfection in your Instant Pot.

If you’re already loving quick and cozy recipes like our Slow Cooker Lentil Taco Chili, then you’re going to appreciate how simple and satisfying this Keto Chili Recipe really is.

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Why You’ll Love This Chili Recipe Without Beans

There’s a reason why this Best Chili Recipe Without Beans stands out:

• Keto and Low-Carb Friendly – Skip the carbs, not the comfort food.
• Quick and Easy in the Instant Pot – Ready in under 40 minutes.
• Hearty and Filling – Loaded with seasoned beef and spices.
• Customizable – Easily make it spicier or milder to your taste.
• Meal Prep Magic – Freezes and reheats like a dream.

Whether you’re watching your carbs or simply prefer chili without beans, this healthy chili recipe Instant Pot version is going to become a weekly staple.

Is Instant Pot No Bean Chili Keto and Low-Carb?

Absolutely! This Keto Instant Pot Chili is naturally low in carbs and high in fat and protein — a perfect fit for those on a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle. By eliminating beans and sugar-heavy sauces, we’re left with clean, flavorful ingredients that align with keto goals.

For more keto-friendly comfort dishes, you might also enjoy our Garlic Butter Cheeseburger Rollups or Ground Turkey Butternut Squash Skillet.

Ingredients for the Best Chili Recipe Without Beans

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this no-fuss, no-bean chili in your Instant Pot:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended for flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream (or keto-friendly alternatives), jalapeño slices.

Want more hearty keto meals? Try our Creamy Tuscan Salmon for a rich and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for This Keto Chili

All you need are a few basics:

• Instant Pot (6- or 8-quart)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Airtight containers for leftovers

If you’re new to pressure cooking, our Slow Cooker Chicken, Potatoes & Green Beans is another great place to start with dump-and-go meals.

How to Make Chili Without Beans in the Instant Pot

This Keto Instant Pot Chili is ready in just a few easy steps:

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
   Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil and diced onion. Cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Brown the Beef
   Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add Spices and Tomato Paste
   Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 2 minutes to bloom the spices.
4. Add Tomatoes, Sauce & Broth
   Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Pressure Cook
   Seal the lid and set your Instant Pot to Manual or Pressure Cook on High for 15 minutes. Allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
6. Serve
   Open the lid, stir, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite low-carb toppings.

Need a low-carb side to go with this? Consider a salad topped with Cucumber Shrimp Salad or roasted veggies like Garlic Herb Jalapeño Cheddar Bread — keto-friendly when made with almond flour alternatives.

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Tips for the Best Healthy Chili Recipe Instant Pot Style

• Use high-quality beef: Opt for 80/20 for flavor without excess grease.
• Don’t rush the sauté: Letting onions and garlic cook fully builds flavor.
• Spice it up: Add chipotle powder, hot sauce, or green chiles for more heat.
• Finish with flavor: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lime juice brightens everything.

For more clean comfort food, try this popular Creamy Mushroom Pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Keto Instant Pot Recipes Beef-Based

• Skipping the sauté step: Builds depth and prevents blandness.
• Using too much liquid: Instant Pots trap moisture, so don’t overdo it.
• Forgetting to deglaze: Scrape up browned bits to avoid a burn notice.
• Overcooking: 15 minutes is plenty. Extra time can dry out the meat.

For another meat-heavy keto option, check out our Steak and Ale Soup with Mushrooms.

Flavorful Variations and Ingredient Swaps

Customize this no-bean chili to your heart’s content:

• Turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option.
• Chorizo or Italian sausage for added spice.
• Add riced cauliflower or zucchini for a veggie boost.
• Top with Whipped Feta Cheese Dip instead of sour cream.
• Make it smoky with liquid smoke or chipotle peppers in adobo.

You can even ladle it over a Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting slice for a wild savory-sweet twist (yes, really — try it!).

Serving Suggestions for Low Carb Chili

Serve this low carb chili with:

• Cauliflower rice
• Zoodles (zucchini noodles)
• Over keto chaffles or cloud bread
• Side of Crispy Cauliflower Nuggets
• Or enjoy as-is in a big bowl with toppings

Garnish with jalapeños, cheese, avocado, or fresh herbs for color and extra nutrition.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This chili is just as good the next day — maybe even better.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth if needed.

Meal prepping? Pair it with Mini Pumpkin Bread or Strawberry Protein Pancakes for the week ahead.

What to Serve with Instant Pot No Bean Chili (No Alcohol)

Here are delicious, non-alcoholic drinks to serve with your chili:

• Sparkling lime water with fresh mint
• Lavender Lemonade
• Iced black tea with lemon
• Sugar-free root beer or cola for a classic chili pairing
• Or pair with Cucumber Mint Agua Fresca for a refreshing twist

These keep your meal refreshing and family-friendly.

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FAQs: How to Make Chili Without Beans Perfectly

Can I make this without tomato sauce?
Yes, just use crushed tomatoes or double the diced tomatoes and add a splash of broth.

What’s the best ground meat to use?
Ground beef (80/20) offers the most flavor, but turkey or bison works too.

How can I make it thicker?
Simmer on sauté for a few extra minutes after pressure cooking.

Is this freezer friendly?
Yes! Cool completely, portion, and freeze up to 3 months.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if your Instant Pot is 8-quart. Avoid overfilling past the max line.

Final Thoughts on This Easy and Healthy Instant Pot Chili

This Instant Pot No Bean Chili is a cozy, protein-rich meal you’ll return to again and again. It’s the perfect low carb chili for busy weeknights, meal prep, or game day — especially when you’re craving big flavor without the carbs or beans.

Whether you’re keto, low-carb, or just prefer your chili meat-only, this recipe delivers every time. Don’t forget to check out more keto Instant Pot recipes beef-based in our Dinner Collection.

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