Carnivore Chili Recipe

When I first started exploring hearty, no-fuss meals that still felt indulgent, this Carnivore Chili quickly became one of my favorites. There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl full of rich meats simmered together with just the right touch of spice. I remember making it on a chilly Sunday afternoon—the kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of sizzling beef and smoky turkey bacon. No beans, no vegetables, just pure, savory satisfaction. Each spoonful felt like the essence of comfort food, tailored perfectly for meat lovers like me.

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity. It’s all about flavor, texture, and heartiness. Every bite combines the tenderness of sirloin with the deep, meaty richness of ground beef. The smoky essence of turkey bacon adds that extra kick, turning a simple chili into something unforgettable. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table pause for a second and say, “Wow, this is good.”

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this Carnivore Chili for its balance of bold flavors and ease of preparation. It delivers a filling, protein-packed meal that keeps you energized. Plus, it doesn’t rely on any fancy ingredients—just wholesome meats, a few spices, and some broth. It’s perfect for those following a carnivore or keto diet, but even traditional chili lovers can’t resist its depth of flavor.

Versatile

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can adjust the spice level depending on your taste. Want a milder version? Skip the chili powder. Craving extra heat? Add a pinch more cumin or your favorite pepper flakes. You can even swap the cuts of beef—try brisket for a smokier flavor or ground bison for a leaner version.

Budget-Friendly

Despite its rich, indulgent taste, this recipe remains surprisingly economical. It uses affordable cuts of meat and basic pantry spices, yet the results taste like something from a gourmet kitchen. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a family without breaking the budget.

Ingredients for Carnivore Chili

• 1 pound Turkey Bacon

• 1 tablespoon tallow or Turkey Bacon grease (for the pot)

• 1 pound boneless sirloin (cut into bite-sized chunks)

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)

• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

• 2 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought)

• Kosher salt (to taste)

  How to Make This Carnivore Chili

  Whenever I make this Carnivore Chili, I’m reminded that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. The process is straightforward, but the results taste like something slow-cooked all day. Every step builds layers of flavor, from the crisping of turkey bacon to the slow simmer that melds everything together into a meaty masterpiece.

  To begin, I always cook the turkey bacon first. It’s the foundation of that smoky flavor. You can use either the oven-baking method or a stovetop skillet. I personally prefer the stovetop because I can control the crispiness and save the flavorful grease right away. Once it’s golden and crisp, set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Don’t forget to reserve about ¼ cup for garnish later—it adds a nice crunch when serving.

  Next, it’s time to heat your pot. I usually grab my medium Dutch oven, but any sturdy soup pot works. Add a tablespoon of tallow or turkey bacon grease. The goal is to coat the pot so the meat won’t stick while searing. Once the fat shimmers, it’s ready.

  Step-by-Step Instructions

  Step 1: Sear the Sirloin
  Add your boneless sirloin chunks to the pot. Let them brown for about 2–3 minutes per side without moving them too much. This step locks in the juices and adds that deep, roasted flavor. Once all sides are browned, transfer the sirloin to a plate and set it aside.

  Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
  In the same pot, add your ground beef. If you like extra depth, sprinkle in ground cumin and chili powder at this stage. Stir occasionally and break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. After about 15 minutes, it should be browned and crumbly.

  Step 3: Combine and Simmer
  Now, return the seared sirloin to the pot. Pour in the beef broth—homemade or store-bought both work fine. Stir gently to combine all the flavors. Turn the heat up until the mixture starts to boil. Then, reduce it to a low simmer. Let it cook uncovered for around 30 minutes. During this time, the broth thickens slightly, and the sirloin becomes perfectly tender.

  Step 4: Add the Turkey Bacon
  Once the simmering is complete, crumble the cooked turkey bacon into small pieces and add it to the pot. If you saved some for garnish, set it aside until serving. Stir the chili one last time, allowing the smoky bacon bits to blend into the meaty base.

  Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
  Before turning off the heat, taste the chili. Add kosher salt slowly because both the bacon and broth contain some salt. Stir, taste, and adjust as needed. Once it’s just right, serve the chili hot.

  Quick and Easy

  This recipe might sound indulgent, but it’s surprisingly quick. With just about an hour from start to finish, you’ll have a satisfying, high-protein meal ready to enjoy. Most of the time is hands-off while the chili simmers and develops its flavor.

  Customizable

  The best part about this carnivore chili is how easily it can be customized. Want more texture? Add chunks of ribeye instead of sirloin. Prefer it spicy? Mix in cayenne or red pepper flakes. You can even experiment with different broths—chicken broth gives a lighter touch, while beef bone broth makes it richer. If you follow specific dietary needs, this chili adapts easily.

  Crowd-Pleasing

  Every time I’ve served this dish at family gatherings or casual get-togethers, it’s been a hit. Even people who usually ask, “Where are the beans?” end up asking for seconds. Its hearty flavor, smoky aroma, and satisfying bite make it universally loved. Plus, it pairs beautifully with simple sides like cauliflower mash or a slice of warm keto bread.

  There’s something primal and fulfilling about this bowl of chili. It brings people together, fills the kitchen with warmth, and proves that simplicity often leads to the most memorable meals. Every spoonful tells the story of well-seasoned meat, careful cooking, and comfort at its finest.

  FAQs

  Can I make this carnivore chili ahead of time?
  Yes, absolutely. In fact, this chili tastes even better the next day. The flavors deepen overnight, making it ideal for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

  Can I freeze the chili for later?
  Definitely. This recipe freezes beautifully. Let the chili cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up gently over low heat.

  What if I don’t have tallow or turkey bacon grease?
  No problem. You can use butter, ghee, or beef drippings as substitutes. The idea is to use a fat that adds flavor while preventing the meat from sticking. Each option gives a slightly different taste but works perfectly with the chili’s meaty base.

  Can I adjust the spice level?
  Of course. If you prefer a mild chili, skip the chili powder and cumin. For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce (alcohol-free). The spice level is entirely customizable.

  Is this recipe suitable for keto or carnivore diets?
  Yes, it fits both perfectly. This chili is naturally low-carb, high in protein, and free from plant-based fillers. It’s a pure, nutrient-dense comfort meal that keeps you full and energized.

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  Carnivore Chili Recipe

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  This Carnivore Chili Recipe is a rich, meaty comfort dish designed for true meat lovers. Made with sirloin, ground beef, and crispy turkey bacon, it’s a hearty bowl of protein-packed flavor. With no beans or vegetables, it focuses on the natural depth of beef and the smoky touch of bacon. Simple to prepare, deeply satisfying, and perfect for anyone following a keto or carnivore diet.

  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • 1 pound Turkey Bacon

  • 1 tablespoon tallow or Turkey Bacon grease (for the pot)

  • 1 pound boneless sirloin (cut into bite-sized chunks)

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

  • 2 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought)

  • Kosher salt (to taste)

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  Instructions

  • Cook the Turkey Bacon until crispy using either the stovetop or oven method. Reserve ¼ cup for garnish.

  • Heat a medium Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Add tallow or Turkey Bacon grease.

  • Sear sirloin chunks for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

  • Add ground beef with optional spices. Cook for about 15 minutes, breaking it apart until fully browned.

  • Return the sirloin to the pot and pour in beef broth. Bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer.

  • Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes to meld flavors and tenderize the meat.

  • Crumble cooked Turkey Bacon into the chili, saving some for topping. Stir well.

  • Taste and season with salt as needed.

  • Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and Turkey Bacon if desired.

  Notes

  • Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the salt, since bacon and broth are already salty.

  • For extra flavor, substitute beef bone broth for regular broth.

  • This chili stores well and tastes even better the next day.

  • Author: Layla
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes