Carnivore Diet Chili Recipe

Chili is one of those comfort foods that can be endlessly adapted, but on a carnivore diet, the focus is all about keeping it hearty, meaty, and free from plant-based ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and vegetables. This carnivore-friendly version delivers all the savory, smoky depth of chili without straying from animal-based ingredients. It’s rich, filling, and perfect for anyone who wants a bowl of pure protein-packed comfort.

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for richness)
1 lb ground pork or sausage (optional, for extra flavor)
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 cup beef bone broth (unsalted, homemade if possible)
2 tbsp beef tallow (or bacon grease)
2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, if you allow spices)
1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for those who aren’t strict zero-carb)
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper (optional)
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (for topping, optional)
½ cup sour cream (optional garnish)

Instructions:

Cook the Bacon:
Begin by heating a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp, rendering out the fat. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the grease in the pot.
Brown the Meat:
Add beef tallow to the pot with the bacon grease. Crumble in the ground beef and pork, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned all over, about 8–10 minutes.
Season the Base:
If you’re allowing seasonings, sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the meat absorbs the flavors. Strict carnivores can skip the spices and just rely on the natural smoky taste from the bacon.
Add the Broth:
Pour in the beef bone broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook gently for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld and thickens the chili naturally as the broth reduces.
Finish & Serve:
Stir the crispy bacon back into the pot, letting it mix evenly with the meaty base. Taste and adjust salt as needed. Serve hot in bowls, topped with shredded cheese and sour cream if desired.

Tips & Variations:

Ultra-Pure Carnivore: Skip all spices and seasonings except salt. The smoky bacon and slow-simmered beef provide more than enough flavor.
Extra Richness: Stir in a tablespoon of butter or heavy cream before serving.
Different Proteins: Substitute ground beef with ground lamb, bison, or venison for variety.
Meal Prep Friendly: This chili keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully, making it a great bulk-cook option.

Final Thoughts

This carnivore diet chili proves that you don’t need beans, tomatoes, or vegetables to create a bowl of comforting, flavor-packed goodness. With a base of ground meats, crispy bacon, and a rich bone broth, it’s satisfying enough to be a full meal on its own. Whether you’re sticking to a strict zero-carb lifestyle or a more flexible animal-based approach, this chili can be customized to fit your needs while staying true to carnivore principles.