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Keto Beef Chili With Cream Cheese - Rich, Satisfying, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for best flavor)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional for extra texture)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
  • 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce (no sugar added)
  • 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
  • 6 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes and softened
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional for extra richness)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • Fresh lime juice (about 1 tablespoon, optional for brightness)
  • Garnishes: sour cream, shredded cheddar, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, green onions, or avocado

Method
 

  1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Brown the beef: Add ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Spoon off excess fat if needed, leaving a couple of tablespoons for flavor.
  3. Bloom the spices: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Stir 1–2 minutes to coat the meat and release the spices’ aroma.
  4. Add tomatoes and broth: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste (if using), and beef broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Simmer to thicken: Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and flavors meld.
  6. Finish with cream cheese: Add cream cheese cubes. Stir slowly until fully melted and the chili turns creamy and smooth. Simmer 3–5 more minutes. Adjust salt and pepper. Add a splash of lime juice if you like brightness.
  7. Serve and garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite keto-friendly garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and cilantro.