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Keto Loaded Chili Bowl - Hearty, Low-Carb Comfort

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 for richer flavor)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small zucchini, diced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
  • 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or fresh lime juice (to finish)
  • Optional thickeners: 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum or 2 ounces full-fat cream cheese
  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (full-fat)
  • Diced avocado
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Chopped green onions
  • Crispy bacon crumbles
  • Lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Brown the beef: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook until browned with crispy edges, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired, but leave a little for flavor.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Add onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Build the base: Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute to caramelize. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth, scraping the bottom to release browned bits.
  4. Season well: Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cocoa powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
  5. Add low-carb veg: Stir in diced zucchini. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer.
  6. Simmer to thicken: Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and flavors meld. If you want a thicker texture, sprinkle in xanthan gum and whisk, or melt in cream cheese.
  7. Finish and balance: Stir in apple cider vinegar or lime juice. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and heat.
  8. Load it up: Ladle into bowls and add your favorite toppings: cheese, sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, cilantro, green onions, bacon, and a squeeze of lime.