Chili is one of the most comforting and flavorful dishes, but if you follow a carnivore lifestyle, you may want a version that skips the beans, veggies, and carbs. That’s where Carnivore Chili comes in—a hearty, meaty dish made entirely with animal-based ingredients while still delivering the bold taste you love.
This chili is rich, filling, and perfect for anyone who craves a warming meal without straying from carnivore principles. It uses ground beef, bacon, and simple seasonings to create a meaty depth of flavor, and optional add-ins like bone broth or organ meats can boost the nutrition.
Whether you’re eating it on a cold evening, prepping for the week ahead, or just want a protein-packed dish, Carnivore Chili satisfies without compromise. It’s a one-pot meal that proves you don’t need beans to make a great chili.
Cooking Time and Serving
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 lb ground pork (optional, for variety)
- 1 cup beef bone broth
- 2 tablespoons beef tallow, ghee, or butter
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor – omit if strict carnivore)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for less strict version)
- Shredded cheese or sour cream for topping (optional, if you include dairy)
How to Make Carnivore Chili
- Cook the bacon – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Brown the meat – In the same pot with bacon drippings, add ground beef (and ground pork if using). Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Add fat & seasonings – Stir in beef tallow, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings. Mix well.
- Pour in broth – Add beef bone broth to create a stew-like consistency. Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish & serve – Stir bacon back in. Taste and adjust salt. Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheese or sour cream if you’re including dairy.
Notes
- For strict carnivore: skip all spices and seasonings besides salt.
- Bone broth not only adds richness but also important nutrients like collagen and electrolytes.
- This chili thickens as it cools—reheat with extra broth if needed.
- Make it richer by mixing in ground organ meats (like beef liver or heart).
FAQs
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook the bacon and beef first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add broth and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Q: Can I freeze Carnivore Chili?
Absolutely. Store cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove.
Q: What meat works best?
Ground beef is the base, but you can mix in pork, lamb, or even shredded brisket for variety.
Nutrition (per serving, 1 out of 4)
- Calories: 590
- Protein: 45 g
- Fat: 44 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
Disclaimer
This recipe is designed for those following a carnivore or low-carb lifestyle. While it’s nutrient-dense and protein-packed, it should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced approach to health. Contains common allergens such as dairy if optional toppings are used. Always check with your healthcare provider before making major dietary changes.
