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Keto Beanless Turkey Chili - Hearty, Comforting, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ground turkey (93% lean is ideal for flavor and moisture)
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes (no sugar added)
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for depth)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice (to finish)
  • Optional toppings: sliced avocado, shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped cilantro, scallions

Method
 

  1. Warm the pot: Heat the avocado oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. A Dutch oven works best for even cooking and simmering.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the turkey: Push the vegetables to the edges. Add the ground turkey to the center and break it up with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Bloom the spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne. Cook 1 minute to wake up the spices. This step adds big flavor.
  5. Build the body: Add tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring, until it darkens slightly. Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and broth. Stir well.
  6. Add depth: Stir in cinnamon or cocoa if using. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer.
  7. Simmer low and slow: Reduce heat to low, partially cover, and simmer 25–35 minutes. Stir occasionally. The chili will thicken and the flavors will round out.
  8. Finish and balance: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Stir in apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lime to brighten the whole pot.
  9. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with avocado, cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or scallions. Keep it keto by choosing low-carb toppings.