The Keto Chili Crockpot recipe is a perfect example of a convenient and delicious dish that aligns with the principles of the Keto diet. This hearty chili combines lean ground beef or turkey with an array of low-carb vegetables, aromatic spices, and savory broth, all cooked slowly in a crockpot to perfection. The result is a flavorful and satisfying chili that’s rich in protein and healthy fats while being low in carbohydrates. This recipe caters not only to Keto enthusiasts but also to anyone seeking a wholesome, fuss-free meal that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition.
The ketogenic (Keto) diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat eating plan designed to induce ketosis, a metabolic state where the body primarily burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. By drastically reducing carb intake and increasing fat consumption, the Keto diet aims to promote weight loss, improve blood sugar control, and enhance overall metabolic health. Common foods in a Keto diet include meats, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, healthy oils, and low-carb vegetables while limiting or avoiding high-carb items like grains, sugars, and starchy foods.
Using a crockpot or slow cooker for Keto recipes offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows for easy preparation of flavorful and nutritious meals with minimal hands-on time. This convenience is especially beneficial for those with busy schedules or limited time for cooking. Additionally, the slow cooking process in a crockpot helps tenderize meats and develop rich flavors, making it ideal for Keto-friendly dishes that rely on hearty proteins and savory spices. Moreover, the gentle cooking method in a crockpot retains more nutrients compared to traditional cooking methods, ensuring that Keto meals remain nutritious and satisfying.
Keto Chili Crockpot Recipe
Ingredients
1. Ground Beef or Turkey
Ground beef or turkey serves as the protein base for Keto Chili Crockpot. Opt for lean ground beef (such as 90/10 or 85/15) or lean ground turkey to keep the dish lower in fat content, which is suitable for a ketogenic diet. Browning the meat before adding it to the crockpot enhances its flavor and texture.
2. Onion, Bell Peppers, Garlic
These aromatic vegetables add depth and flavor to the chili. Diced onions, bell peppers (any color), and minced garlic are sautéed until softened and fragrant before being combined with the meat in the crockpot. They contribute essential nutrients and complement the savory notes of the dish.
3. Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Paste
Diced tomatoes and tomato paste provide the tomato base for the chili. Opt for canned diced tomatoes without added sugars or preservatives to keep the dish low in carbs. Tomato paste adds richness and thickness to the chili, enhancing its overall texture and flavor.
4. Beef Broth
Beef broth serves as the liquid component of the chili, providing moisture and depth of flavor. Choose a low-sodium beef broth or make your own to control the salt content. The broth helps create a delicious, savory base for the chili as it simmers in the crockpot.
5. Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, etc.)
A blend of spices adds warmth and complexity to the Keto Chili Crockpot. Common spices include chili powder (for heat and flavor), ground cumin (for earthiness), paprika (for color and smokiness), dried oregano (for herbal notes), and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference for a mild or spicy chili.
6. Optional: Jalapeños, Diced Green Chilies, etc.
For those who enjoy extra heat and flavor, optional ingredients like diced jalapeños, diced green chilies, or other low-carb peppers can be added to the chili. These ingredients contribute a spicy kick and additional layers of taste, making the chili more customizable to individual preferences. Adjust the quantity of optional ingredients based on your desired level of spiciness.
By combining these carefully selected ingredients and spices, you’ll create a mouthwatering Keto Chili Crockpot that’s sure to be a hit at your table—flavorful, satisfying, and perfectly suited for your low-carb lifestyle.
Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef or Turkey in a Skillet:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula or spoon.
- Cook the meat until it’s browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the meat to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Set aside.
2. Chop the Bell Peppers, Onion, and Garlic:
- Wash and dry the bell peppers. Remove the seeds and chop them into small pieces.
- Peel and dice the onion.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
- Keep the chopped vegetables aside for later use.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
- In the crockpot, add the browned meat, diced tomatoes (including any juices), and tomato paste.
- Add the chopped bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until well combined.
4. Add Beef Broth and Stir:
- Pour the beef broth into the crockpot, ensuring that all ingredients are submerged.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly to evenly distribute the broth and spices.
5. Cook in the Crockpot:
- Place the lid on the crockpot securely.
- Set the crockpot to cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to retain heat and moisture.
6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
- Once the chili is cooked to your desired tenderness and flavor, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Add more salt, pepper, or spices as per your preference.
- Ladle the hot keto chili into bowls.
- Garnish with optional toppings such as chopped jalapenos, shredded cheese, or sliced avocado.
- Serve the keto chili hot and enjoy!
These instructions guide you through the process of creating a flavorful and hearty Keto Chili using a crockpot. Starting with browning the ground beef or turkey to develop rich flavors, you then combine it with a medley of vegetables, tomatoes, and aromatic spices in the crockpot. The addition of beef broth ensures a savory base while slow cooking tenderizes the ingredients and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Adjusting the seasoning towards the end ensures a perfectly balanced taste. Once cooked to perfection, serve this comforting chili hot, optionally topped with jalapenos, cheese, or avocado for added texture and flavor.
Keto Chili Crockpot is a savory and satisfying dish tailored for those following a ketogenic lifestyle. This hearty chili features tender bites of ground beef or turkey, paired with a colorful array of bell peppers, onions, and garlic, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. The combination of diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and a blend of aromatic spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika infuses the dish with bold flavors, making it a comforting meal option that’s low in carbs and high in protein.
The convenience of using a crockpot allows for easy preparation, as the ingredients are simply combined and left to simmer for several hours, allowing the flavors to intensify and creating a rich, thick chili consistency. Whether enjoyed on its own or garnished with toppings like shredded cheese, fresh avocado, or a dollop of sour cream, Keto Chili Crockpot offers a wholesome and delicious way to stay on track with your keto diet while indulging in a classic comfort food favorite.
Keto Chili Crockpot Nutrition Info
Here’s a nutrition table for Keto Chili Crockpot per serving (assuming a standard serving size of about 1 cup):
| Nutrient |
Amount per Serving
|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| – Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 700mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 8g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| – Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 20g |
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. It’s always a good idea to check product labels for accurate nutritional information.
Here’s a consolidated nutrition table for the key ingredients used in Keto Chili Crockpot:
| Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbs | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef (85% lean) | 3 oz cooked | 213 kcal | 15g | 6g | 76mg | 68mg | 0g | 0g | 0g | 19g |
| Ground Turkey (93% lean) | 3 oz cooked | 135 kcal | 7g | 2g | 65mg | 61mg | 0g | 0g | 0g | 16g |
| Bell Peppers | 1 medium pepper | 25 kcal | 0.3g | 0g | 0mg | 2mg | 6g | 2g | 4g | 1g |
| Onion | 1 medium onion | 44 kcal | 0.1g | 0g | 0mg | 2mg | 11g | 2g | 9g | 1g |
| Garlic | 1 clove | 4 kcal | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 1mg | 1g | 0g | 0g | 0.2g |
| Diced Tomatoes | 1 cup | 32 kcal | 0.4g | 0g | 0mg | 363mg | 7g | 2g | 5g | 1g |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tbsp | 30 kcal | 0.2g | 0g | 0mg | 23mg | 7g | 2g | 4g | 1g |
| Beef Broth | 1 cup | 15 kcal | 0.5g | 0g | 0mg | 900mg | 1g | 0g | 0g | 2g |
| Chili Powder | 1 tbsp | 23 kcal | 1.2g | 0g | 0mg | 49mg | 4g | 2g | 0.6g | 1g |
| Cumin | 1 tbsp | 22 kcal | 1.3g | 0g | 0mg | 10mg | 2g | 0.6g | 0.1g | 1g |
| Paprika | 1 tbsp | 20 kcal | 1g | 0g | 0mg | 1mg | 4g | 2g | 1g | 1g |
Tips For Best Results
Here are some tips to ensure the best results when making a Keto Chili in a Crockpot:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Opt for grass-fed beef, organic vegetables, and low-carb canned ingredients without added sugars.
- Brown the Meat: For added depth of flavor, brown the ground beef or turkey before adding it to the Crockpot. This helps to caramelize the meat and enhance its taste.
- Low-Carb Vegetables: Choose low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and zucchini for your chili. These vegetables add flavor and texture without adding excessive carbs.
- Use Low-Carb Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes with no added sugar or opt for crushed tomatoes to keep the carb count low.
- Adjust Spices: Adjust the amount of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and other spices according to your taste preferences. Taste the chili before serving and add more spices if needed.
- Add Flavor Boosters: Enhance the flavor of your Keto Chili by adding ingredients like minced garlic, chopped cilantro, a splash of lime juice, or a dash of hot sauce.
- Slow Cooking: Cook the chili on low heat in the Crockpot for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together and develop a rich taste.
- Thicken as Needed: If the chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering uncovered for a longer time or adding a small amount of xanthan gum or a low-carb thickener.
- Serve with Keto-Friendly Toppings: Garnish your Keto Chili with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped avocado, sliced jalapenos, or crispy bacon for added flavor and texture.
- Storage and Reheating: Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying Keto Chili in your Crockpot that is low in carbs but full of flavor.
Keto Chili Crockpot Recipe
Equipment
- Crockpot or slow cooker: This is the main equipment for cooking the chili slowly and evenly.
- Skillet or frying pan For browning the ground beef or turkey and sautéing onions, peppers, and garlic.
- Wooden spoon or spatula For stirring and mixing the ingredients in both the skillet and crockpot.
- Cutting board and knife For chopping vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and garlic.
- Measuring cups and spoons To accurately measure the ingredients like spices, broth, and tomato paste.
- Can opener If using canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, or other canned ingredients.
- Ladle or serving spoon: For serving the finished chili.
- Optional Kitchen timer, food thermometer (to check meat doneness), and serving bowls for individual portions.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 diced medium onion
- 1 diced bell peppers (any color)
- 3 minced cloves garlic
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- diced jalapeños, diced green chilies, shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by browning ground beef or turkey in a skillet until it's fully cooked; drain any excess fat.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic until they're softened and fragrant; season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the cooked meat and sautéed vegetables into the crockpot.
- Add undrained diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and any optional ingredients like diced jalapeños or green chilies to the crockpot.
- Stir everything together until well combined
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on LOW heat for 4 to 6 hours or on HIGH heat for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally for even cooking if possible.
- Once the chili is cooked to your desired tenderness and the flavors have melded, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or other spices to suit your taste.
- Serve the Keto Chili hot, garnished with optional toppings like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or chopped green onions. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Keto-friendly meal!
Notes
- Choose Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey to reduce the overall fat content of the chili, making it more suitable for a ketogenic diet.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder, cumin, and other spices according to your taste preferences. Add more for a spicier kick or reduce for a milder flavor.
- Low-Carb Ingredients: Ensure that the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and any other canned ingredients are low in carbs and do not contain added sugars.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can add less beef broth or simmer the chili uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. For a thinner consistency, add more broth or water.
- Optional Ingredients: Customize your chili by adding optional ingredients like diced jalapeños, green chilies, or even low-carb vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
- Garnish Creatively: Enhance the presentation and taste of your Keto Chili by garnishing it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro before serving.
- Storage and Reheating: Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before enjoying.
- Nutritional Information: Keep track of the macronutrients in your chili to stay within your daily carb, fat, and protein goals if you're following a strict ketogenic diet.
Delicious Topping Ideas
Here are some delicious topping ideas to enhance your Keto Chili Crockpot:
- Shredded Cheese: Opt for keto-friendly cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack. The melted cheese adds creaminess and a rich flavor to the chili.
- Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado adds a creamy texture and healthy fats to the chili. It also provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top of the hot chili adds a cool and tangy element. It complements the spices and balances the heat.
- Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the chili. It’s aromatic and pairs well with the flavors of the dish.
- Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions add a mild onion flavor and a bit of crunch. They are a great garnish for chili and add a nice visual appeal.
- Jalapeno Slices: For spice lovers, sliced jalapenos are a fantastic addition. They add heat and a bit of crunch, perfect for those who enjoy a kick in their chili.
- Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the chili. The citrusy tang adds brightness and enhances the flavors of the dish.
- Crushed Pork Rinds: For a crunchy topping that’s low in carbs, crush some pork rinds and sprinkle them over the chili. They mimic the texture of traditional chili toppings without the carbs.
- Crispy Bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor to the chili. It’s a delicious indulgence that complements the meaty flavors.
- Pickled Red Onions: Tangy and slightly sweet pickled red onions add a burst of flavor and a vibrant color contrast to the chili. They’re easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.
Feel free to mix and match these toppings based on your preferences and dietary needs. They add variety, texture, and extra layers of flavor to your Keto Chili Crockpot, making each bite even more enjoyable.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat in Keto Chili Crockpot?
Yes, you can absolutely use different types of meat in Keto Chili Crockpot to suit your preferences and dietary needs. While the recipe typically calls for ground beef or turkey, you can also use ground chicken, pork, or a combination of meats. Just ensure that the meat is lean to keep the chili keto-friendly. Browning the meat before adding it to the crockpot helps develop flavors and texture, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
How can I adjust the spice level of Keto Chili Crockpot?
Adjusting the spice level of Keto Chili Crockpot is quite flexible. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the spicy ingredients like jalapenos altogether. On the other hand, if you like it hot, you can increase the amount of chili powder, add extra jalapenos, or include a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. It’s best to start with a conservative amount of spices and taste the chili as it cooks, adding more spices gradually until you reach your desired level of heat.
Can I make Keto Chili Crockpot vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, you can easily make Keto Chili Crockpot vegetarian-friendly by replacing the meat with plant-based alternatives. Instead of ground beef or turkey, you can use plant-based ground “meat” made from ingredients like tofu, tempeh, or textured vegetable protein (TVP). Additionally, you can bulk up the chili with extra vegetables like diced zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for added texture and flavor. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure a delicious vegetarian version of this comforting dish.
How long does Keto Chili Crockpot last in the refrigerator?
Keto Chili Crockpot can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to the fridge. Reheat individual servings on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If you plan to keep the chili for longer, consider freezing it in portions for up to a few months. Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What are some creative ways to serve Keto Chili Crockpot?
Keto Chili Crockpot can be served in various creative ways to keep your meals exciting. Besides enjoying it as a standalone dish, you can use the chili as a topping for keto-friendly cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. It also makes a delicious filling for low-carb wraps or lettuce wraps. Consider using leftovers to create chili-stuffed bell peppers or as a topping for loaded keto nachos. Experiment with different garnishes like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or sour cream to add extra flavor and texture to your servings.
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!