This gluten-free chili is warm, hearty, and packed with flavor! With tasty beans, tomatoes, and spices, it’s perfect for chilly days or a cozy night in.
I love making this chili on weekends, and the best part? It’s great for leftovers! You can enjoy it all week long, just like a cozy hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for this chili. However, if you’re looking for something lighter, ground turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute works well too. Just remember, cooking times may vary a bit!
Beans: Kidney beans are a classic choice but feel free to mix it up! Black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas also add a nice texture. If you’re staying low-carb or avoiding beans, it’s fine to leave them out altogether.
Tomato Sauce: Always check for gluten-free labels on tomato products to be safe. You can swap tomato sauce for pureed tomatoes or even crushed tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are key to a rich flavor. If you want to kick things up a notch, add some chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a different depth! Use fresh herbs like oregano if you have them.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Chili?
The trick to a flavorful chili is all in the cooking process! Start by layering your ingredients and letting them develop their flavors. Here’s how:
- Begin with sautéing onions and peppers until softened. This builds a sweet base for your chili.
- Don’t rush the browning of the meat. Making sure it’s nicely browned will add richness to your dish.
- Let the chili simmer! Allowing it to stew for a while develops the flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but longer is even better if you can hold out.
- Always taste and adjust at the end. Sometimes it just needs a pinch more salt or a dash more spice!
Enjoy experimenting with these tips to create the perfect bowl of chili just for you!
How to Make Gluten-Free Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (no added gluten)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce (gluten-free)
- 1 cup beef broth (gluten-free)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional, verify gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for serving, optional)
- Sliced jalapeños (for serving, optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This gluten-free chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal within about 40 minutes! Just think of it as a quick and cozy dinner that warms you up from the inside.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they’re softened and just the right amount of sweet. Cooking them first helps build a great base for your chili!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. You’ll love the smell that fills your kitchen!
3. Brown the Meat:
Now, add your ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook for about 7-8 minutes, until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. If there’s a lot of fat, feel free to drain it off!
4. Mix in the Tomatoes and Broth:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. This is where your chili starts to come together. It’s colorful and smells amazing already!
5. Add the Beans:
If you’re using kidney beans, now’s the time to add them in. They give the chili some heartiness!
6. Season It Up:
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to combine. Each spice is like a mini flavor booster!
7. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully!
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your chili. If you think it needs more salt or spice, now’s the time to adjust the seasonings!
9. Serve It Up:
Dish out your chili hot, and make it your own by topping it with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapeños. A squeeze of lime juice on top adds a refreshing zing!
Enjoy this hearty, flavorful gluten-free chili that’s perfect for a cozy meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times slightly based on the choice of meat.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can add extra beans, lentils, or even chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and protein.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just let it cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container!
What Can I Serve with This Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips! You can also serve it over a baked potato or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.