Hearty Carnivore Chili with Ground Beef & Bacon

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 8 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons beef tallow or butter (optional)
• 1 small onion, finely diced (optional if you’re following a relaxed carnivore diet)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional for a keto/carnivore hybrid version)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Crispy bacon crumbles
• Butter
• Chopped chives

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
2. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. If using onion and garlic, sauté them in the beef fat for 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the tomato paste (if using) and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the beef broth and return the cooked bacon to the pot.
6. Add salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.
7. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with shredded cheddar and crispy bacon.
• Add a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
• Serve with scrambled eggs or carnivore bread for a hearty meal.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 36 g
• Fat: 40 g
• Carbohydrates: 3–5 g (depending on optional ingredients)