Texas-Style No Bean Crock Pot Chili Gets a Smoky Upgrade.

This healthy, high-protein no bean chili slow cooker recipe combines two kinds of beef, tomatoes, smoky spices, and a splash of barbecue sauce for bold Texas-inspired flavor that's rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make.

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It's a must-make.

There's something satisfying about a pot of no bean chili slow cooker simmering away all day. If you're craving a hearty, meat-filled chili with bold Texas-inspired flavor, this recipe delivers every time.

• Big, bold Texas-inspired flavor. Smoky spices, tomatoes, beef, and barbecue sauce create layers of flavor that get even better as they cook.
• High in protein and naturally low carb. With two kinds of beef and no beans, it's a hearty meal that fits a variety of healthy eating styles. 15.8 g fat | 6.1 g net carbs | 23.4 g protein
• Easy slow cooker dinner. After everything goes into the crockpot, the slow cooker does the rest of the work.
• Even better the next day. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making lunch or dinner easy later in the week.

Let's talk texture and flavor.

Every spoonful is rich, meaty, and full of bold, smoky flavor. The tender chunks of stew meat practically melt into the seasoned ground beef, while tomatoes, onions, peppers, and barbecue sauce create a thick, savory chili with just enough sweetness to balance the spices. It's hearty enough to satisfy on its own but even better with your favorite toppings.

What you'll need.

Here's what your going to need to make this slow cooker no bean chili recipe.

• Stew meat: Becomes fork-tender as it slowly cooks.
• Ground beef: Adds another layer of hearty texture and flavor.
• Onion: Brings natural sweetness as it cooks down.
• Green pepper: Adds freshness and balances the richness.
• Diced tomatoes: Form the flavorful base of the chili.
• Sugar-free sweet barbecue sauce: Gives the chili its signature smoky twist. I use my Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce Recipe.
• Tomato paste: Thickens the chili while adding rich tomato flavor.
• Garlic: Adds savory depth.
• Chili powder: The primary chili seasoning.
• Oregano: Adds earthy herbal notes.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds even more smoky flavor if you have it.
• Cayenne pepper: Adjust to your preferred heat level.
• Cumin: Adds classic Texas-style chili flavor.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• Black pepper: Adds mild warmth.
• Bay leaves: Infuse the chili while it cooks.
• Pepperoncini peppers (optional): Add a little tangy heat.
• Optional thickeners: Cornstarch and water: An easy way to thicken the chili. Xanthan gum and olive oil: A low carb thickening option.

Customize it your way.

This crockpot Texas chili recipe is easy to make your own with a few simple additions or flavor tweaks.

• Use smoked paprika for an even deeper smoky flavor.
• Stir in diced jalapeños if you like more heat.
• Add extra barbecue sauce before serving for a slightly sweeter finish.
• Top with shredded cheddar, sliced green onions, avocado, or sour cream.
• Use smoked sausage instead of ground beef or the stew meat.
• Substitute ground chicken or ground turkey for the ground beef.
• Finish with your favorite hot sauce if you enjoy a spicier chili.

Flexible dietary swaps.

One of my favorite things about this no bean chili slow cooker recipe is how easy it is to adjust for different dietary needs.

• Dairy-Free: Skip dairy toppings or use your favorite dairy-free alternatives.
• Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free barbecue sauce and double-check packaged ingredients.
• Lower Sodium: Choose reduced-sodium diced tomatoes and barbecue sauce, then reduce the added salt to taste.
• Leaner: Use lean ground beef to reduce the overall fat content.
• Lower Sugar: Choose a no-added-sugar barbecue sauce.

How to make this crockpot Texas chili recipe.

Making no bean chili slow cooker style couldn't be much easier. Once everything is in the crockpot, the slow cooker develops all those bold flavors for you.

1. Combine the browned ground beef, stew meat, vegetables, tomatoes, barbecue sauce, tomato paste, garlic, seasonings, and bay leaves in the slow cooker.
2. If using xanthan gum, stir it with the olive oil until smooth before adding it to the slow cooker.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, until the stew meat is tender.
4. If you'd like a thicker chili, stir in the cornstarch slurry or xanthan gum mixture and let the chili sit with the lid off for several minutes before serving.

How to serve it.

A bowl of no bean chili slow cooker chili is satisfying on its own, but a few toppings and sides make it even better.

• Top with shredded cheddar, sour cream, sliced green onions, or diced avocado.
• Add sliced pepperoncini for extra tang and heat. Serve with cornbread, a side salad, or your favorite low carb bread.
• Spoon leftovers over baked potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or hot dogs for a fun twist.
• Pair with a crisp green salad for an easy, balanced meal.

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