If you are craving a meal that wraps you in warm, robust flavors and a satisfying, meaty texture, then you have to try this Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili (No Beans) Recipe. It’s a rich, comforting chili that relies solely on a trio of ground beef, pork, and Italian sausage, simmered to perfection with a bold blend of spices and tomatoes that deliver a deep, smoky, and spicy experience without a single bean in sight. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a thick, protein-packed chili that fills the house with an irresistible aroma and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili (No Beans) Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that come together harmoniously to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each item contributes something special, from the savory meats to the vibrant spices and the rich tomato base.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a classic, hearty foundation with a rich meaty flavor.
- 1 lb ground pork: Adds juiciness and a subtle sweetness to balance the beef.
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed: Infuses the chili with aromatic herbs and a spicy kick.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Offers sweetness and depth when cooked low and slow.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant pungency that elevates the savory profile.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds bright acidity and texture.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Thickens and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce: Provides a smooth, rich tomato base for the chili.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the meaty, savory notes and keeps the chili moist.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The heart of the spice mix, delivering warmth and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy undertone vital to any great chili.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky flavor without needing a grill.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a hint of herbaceous fragrance that brightens the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and sharpness.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a fiery touch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning meat): Helps develop deep flavor by browning the meats evenly.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color when serving.
How to Make Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili (No Beans) Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, ground pork, and Italian sausage, breaking them up with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned all over and fully cooked, about 8 to 10 minutes. This step is key—it builds the foundation of flavor by caramelizing the meat’s natural sugars and locking in juices. Drain off any excess fat to keep the chili from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Once the meat is perfectly browned, transfer it to your slow cooker. This allows the flavors to concentrate as everything simmers gently over hours, letting the seasoning soak deep into the meat for that rich, hearty taste you crave.
Step 3: Add Veggies and Tomato Base
Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic directly to the slow cooker. These aromatics will soften and infuse the chili with savory notes. Follow with the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and tomato sauce. The combination of these tomato elements creates a robust, thick sauce that clings to every bite of meat.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like it spicy. Stir everything thoroughly to make sure the meat and tomato mixture are well coated in these wonderful spices. This blends all the layers of heat, smokiness, and earthiness that make this chili stand out.
Step 5: Slow Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow simmer is what transforms simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful bowl of comfort. The meat becomes tender and the sauce thickens, melding everything into a harmonious dish.
Step 6: Final Taste and Texture Adjustment
When cooking time is up, give your chili a good stir and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper if needed. For a thicker consistency, mash some of the tomatoes or meat against the side of the slow cooker using the back of a spoon. This tweak lets you customize the texture to your liking.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor if desired. This finishing touch adds a vibrant contrast to the rich meat sauce and makes your chili look as inviting as it tastes.
How to Serve Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili (No Beans) Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnishes can take this Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili (No Beans) Recipe to the next level. Try topping it with shredded cheddar cheese for gooey richness, a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat, or sliced green onions for a bit of crunch and mild zest. These additions transform every spoonful into a party for your taste buds.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its bold flavors. Crusty bread or cornbread is perfect for soaking up the sauce, while a light green salad can add freshness to balance the richness. If you want to keep things classic, a side of tortilla chips provides crunch and a fun way to scoop up your chili.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve your chili over a bed of steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes to blend hearty flavors and textures. For a cozy twist, fill a baked potato with chili and add your favorite toppings. You can also spoon chili into warm tortillas with cheese and lettuce for a hearty, chili taco variation that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili (No Beans) Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to ensure it stays fresh and maintains its rich flavor. Leftovers often taste even better the next day as the spices continue to meld.
Freezing
If you want to save some chili for later, freeze it in portioned, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion when freezing.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator. Warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in short bursts until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if the chili has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I make this chili without the Italian sausage?
Absolutely! While the Italian sausage adds extra flavor and spice, you can substitute it with more ground beef or pork, or even turkey. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a little different but still delicious.
Is the cayenne pepper necessary in this recipe?
The cayenne pepper is optional and meant to add an extra kick for those who love spicy food. Feel free to leave it out if you prefer a milder chili or adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
Can I cook this chili in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! After browning the meat, combine all ingredients in a large pot, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until thickened and flavorful.
What can I use instead of fresh cilantro for garnish?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley is a great alternative for a splash of green and a mild, fresh flavor. Green onions or chives also work well as a garnish.
Is this chili suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! This chili tastes fantastic after a day or two, making it ideal for meal prepping. Portion it into containers for easy, grab-and-go meals that will keep you warm and satisfied throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili (No Beans) Recipe is truly a personal favorite because of its comforting depth of flavor and satisfying texture that only slow simmering all-meat chili can bring. It’s a wonderful dish to enjoy on chilly nights or when you want a meal that feels like a warm hug. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked on this richly meaty, flavorful chili that proves you don’t need beans to create a truly awesome bowl of chili perfection.
Print
Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili (No Beans) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful all-meat chili with no beans, slow-cooked to perfection with ground beef, pork, Italian sausage, and a rich blend of spices and tomatoes. Perfect for a comforting meal that’s packed with protein and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Tomato & Broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning meat)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, ground pork, and Italian sausage. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the cooked meat mixture to the slow cooker to begin the slow cooking process.
- Add Vegetables and Liquids: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker, followed by the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Mix in Spices: Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir again thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Slow Cook the Chili: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chili should thicken and the flavors will meld beautifully.
- Adjust Seasoning and Thickness: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. For a thicker texture, mash some tomatoes or meat against the side of the cooker with a spoon.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro if desired. Complement with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped onions for extra flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper to taste.
- Brown the meats well to develop deeper flavor before slow cooking.
- You can add a splash of beer or coffee for an additional smoky depth.
- Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer keep.
