Go Back

Spicy Keto Jalapeño Chili - Bold Flavor, Low-Carb Comfort

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2–3 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeded for less heat; keep seeds for extra spice)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20) or a mix of beef and pork
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (no sugar added)
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
  • 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (optional but great)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese or 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
  • Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, shredded cheddar, sour cream, or avocado for serving

Method
 

  1. Heat the oil: Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the oil and let it shimmer.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeños. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the meat: Add ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Don’t drain unless there’s excess grease; a little fat adds flavor.
  4. Bloom the spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, coriander, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Add tomato base: Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  6. Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and simmer 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors meld.
  7. Finish: Stir in apple cider vinegar or lime juice to brighten. For a creamier texture, mix in cream cheese or heavy cream until melted and smooth.
  8. Taste and adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or cayenne as needed. If you want it thicker, simmer uncovered a few more minutes.
  9. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with cilantro, green onions, cheese, sour cream, or avocado.