Hearty Carnivore Chili with Ground Beef and Bacon
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of chili to bring comfort, warmth, and deep satisfaction but this carnivore chili takes things to a whole new level. Made entirely from rich, meaty ingredients, this recipe is hearty, smoky, and packed with flavor.
Ground beef provides the base, while crispy bacon adds irresistible depth and a savory bite. I’ve made this countless times on busy weeknights and even for gatherings, and it’s always a hit with anyone who loves bold, meaty meals. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it’s fully carnivore-approved.
Why You’ll Love Carnivore Chili
This chili is perfect for anyone following a carnivore lifestyle or those who simply want a filling, protein-packed comfort dish. With only a handful of ingredients, it’s simple, flavorful, and satisfying. The combination of ground beef and bacon gives this dish a smoky, savory richness that will have you making it on repeat.
Simple Ingredients
Here’s what makes this chili so flavorful:
- Ground Beef: The hearty base of the chili, rich in flavor and protein.
- Bacon: Adds smokiness, saltiness, and extra fat for richness.
- Beef Broth: Helps create a saucy consistency while intensifying the meaty flavor.
- Butter or Tallow: Provides additional fat and enhances the flavor of the dish.
- Salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the beef and bacon.
- Optional Spices (if tolerated): A touch of black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne can add extra depth for a less strict carnivore version.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
What is Needed
- 2 lbs ground beef 80/20
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp butter or beef tallow
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Optional Ingredients if Not Strick Carnivore
- ½ tsp black pepper (optional)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Stir in the butter (or tallow), then pour in the beef broth.
- If using, add optional spices and stir well.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the chili thickens slightly.
- Season with salt and stir well.
- Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon pieces.
Top Tips
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and fat.
- Don’t drain the bacon fat it adds incredible flavor.
- For extra richness, top with a dollop of butter before serving.
- If using spices, start small and adjust to taste.
Recipe Variations
- Swap ground beef with ground pork or ground lamb.
- Add shredded beef for a chunkier chili.
- Use smoked bacon for even deeper flavor.
- Make it spicier with extra cayenne or crushed red pepper if tolerated.
Recommended Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Make Ahead Tips
This chili tastes even better the next day. Store it in the fridge overnight to allow the flavors to deepen.
How to Store and Reheat
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Carnivore cloud bread or egg-based bread
- A side of crispy pork belly
- Grilled steak slices for extra protein punch
What Foods Are Carnivore Approved?
The carnivore diet (Affiliate) is refreshingly simple, built around nutrient-rich animal foods that keep you satisfied and energized. Think beef, pork, poultry, seafood, eggs, and dairy (if you tolerate it), along with animal fats like tallow, butter, and lard. Having a clear list of what you can enjoy makes meal planning so much easier.
Want the complete guide? Get the full Carnivore approved foods list right here on OvenSpot!
What You Need to Know About This Recipe
Traditional chili often includes beans, tomatoes, and spices but this carnivore chili skips them all, focusing instead on the richness of meat and fat. This recipe draws inspiration from old-fashioned meat stews that were designed to be filling, nourishing, and uncomplicated. The optional spices allow you to bridge the gap between traditional chili flavors and strict carnivore simplicity.
Carnivore Recipes
Try these you will love them!
Ground Beef and Bacon Carnivore Chili
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef 80/20
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon chopped
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp butter or beef tallow
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper optional
- ½ tsp smoked paprika optional
- ½ tsp garlic powder optional
- ½ tsp onion powder optional
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Stir in the butter (or tallow), then pour in the beef broth.
- If using, add optional spices and stir well.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the chili thickens slightly.
- Season with salt and stir well.
- Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon pieces.
Notes
- For added flavor, use bone broth instead of regular beef broth.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
- Optional spices can be added for a less strict carnivore version.
One-Pot Cooking Rocks!
Michelle
Hi, I’m Michelle, the founder, owner, author, and editor of OvenSpot. My passion for one-pot cooking commenced when I was working to prepare cafeteria lunches for school students. I am now on a mission to assist you in choosing the cooking pot or appliance you will use daily. As well as in-depth information to assist you in using and caring for your cookware and appliances. Along with the yummy recipes I use at home.
Questions? Reach out to Michelle at [email protected]
