Easy & Quick Carnivore Chili with Ground Beef and Bacon

When the weather turns cold or you crave something hearty, few meals satisfy quite like chili. But on a carnivore diet, beans, tomatoes, and vegetables are off the table. That’s where carnivore chili with ground beef and bacon comes in—a rich, meaty dish that delivers all the comfort of traditional chili without any plant-based fillers.

This version focuses entirely on animal-based ingredients while still giving you a flavorful, satisfying bowl. The smokiness of bacon, the richness of ground beef, and the creamy finish from butter and cream cheese make this dish both indulgent and nourishing. Think of it as chili stripped down to its most essential, primal form—simple, bold, and deeply comforting.

Why this carnivore chili stands out

This isn’t just ground beef tossed in a pot. It’s carefully layered to build depth, richness, and texture.

● Purely carnivore-friendly – Free of beans, nightshades, or plant oils.
● Customizable fat ratio – Works with 80/20 ground beef, fattier 75/25, or even a mix with organ meats for added nutrients.
● Balanced flavor – Bacon brings smokiness, beef provides heartiness, and dairy adds creaminess.
● Quick or slow method – Make it in under 40 minutes or let it simmer for hours for deeper flavor.
● Meal prep ready – Stores well in the fridge and freezes for later use.

Carnivore chili vs traditional chili

To make it clear, here’s a side-by-side look:

This comparison shows why carnivore chili is so powerful—it delivers the same comfort food satisfaction while staying strictly animal-based.

Ingredients for carnivore chili with ground beef and bacon

To make a deeply flavorful bowl of carnivore chili, you only need a handful of nutrient-rich ingredients. Each one serves a purpose in balancing taste, texture, and satiety.

● Ground beef – Aim for at least 80/20 for richness, or try 75/25 for even more fat. If you prefer variety, blend in some ground short rib, brisket, or organ meats like beef liver for extra nutrients.
● Bacon – Thick-cut works best. The smokiness lays the foundation of flavor while the rendered fat enriches the broth.
● Beef bone broth – Adds depth and collagen. Homemade broth is best, but store-bought unsalted broth works in a pinch.

● Butter – Creates a silky finish and boosts healthy fats. Use grass-fed butter for deeper flavor.
● Cream cheese or heavy cream – Adds creaminess and mellows out the saltiness of bacon. For stricter carnivore, stick with heavy cream.
● Salt and pepper – Essential basics to bring out the natural flavors.
● Optional seasonings (for relaxed carnivore) – Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper add complexity without carbs.

Step-by-step method

Step 1. Crisp the bacon

Dice bacon strips and cook in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Allow the fat to render and the pieces to turn golden and crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, keeping 1–2 tablespoons of the fat in the pot.

Step 2. Brown the beef

Add ground beef directly into the hot bacon fat. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned all over. Don’t over-drain the fat—keeping some enhances flavor and creates a richer broth.

Step 3. Combine and simmer

Return the bacon to the pot. Pour in bone broth, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings. Stir well. Simmer uncovered on low for 15–20 minutes to let the broth reduce and thicken.

Step 4. Add richness

Stir in butter and cream cheese (or heavy cream) until melted and fully incorporated. This creates a velvety texture that coats each bite.

Step 5. Taste and adjust

Check for seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot in bowls with extra butter, shredded cheese, or even a poached egg on top if you’re not strict carnivore.

Pro tips for best results

● Choose fatty cuts – The higher fat content prevents the chili from drying out and improves satiety.
● Simmer longer for depth – If you have time, let it simmer on low for up to 1 hour. The flavors deepen, and the broth thickens naturally.
● Make it one-pot – A cast iron Dutch oven retains heat beautifully and ensures even cooking.
● Meal prep friendly – Double the batch and freeze portions in glass containers for easy reheating.

Serving ideas for carnivore chili

One of the best things about carnivore chili is its flexibility. You can enjoy it plain or dress it up depending on your needs.

● Classic bowl – Serve hot with an extra pat of butter on top for richness.
● High-fat boost – Add shredded cheese, whipped cream cheese, or a drizzle of heavy cream.
● Protein overload – Top with a poached or fried egg for an added layer of texture.
● Meal prep option – Pair it with pork rind “chips” for a crunchy side.
● Family style – Serve alongside seared steak slices or grilled chicken for variety.

Nutrition breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings)

This balance makes carnivore chili with ground beef and bacon ideal for those seeking high protein, high fat, and very low carbs.

Storage and reheating tips

● Store leftovers in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
● To freeze, let chili cool, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It lasts well for 2–3 months.
● Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of bone broth if it feels too thick.
● Avoid microwaving on high, as it can make the fats separate. Use lower settings or reheat covered.

FAQs On Carnivore Chili with Ground Beef and Bacon

Question	Answer
Can you cook ground beef and bacon together?	Yes, bacon fat seasons the beef and adds smoky depth—perfect for chili.
What meat is best for carnivore chili?	Fatty ground beef (80/20 or 75/25) with bacon or organ meats for richness.
Can I have ground beef on the carnivore diet?	Absolutely, it’s a staple protein with zero carbs and high nutrients.
Is ground beef good for chili?	Yes, it’s hearty, quick-cooking, and creates the perfect chili base.

Final thoughts Carnivore Chili with Ground Beef and Bacon

Carnivore chili with ground beef and bacon is proof that you don’t need beans, tomatoes, or spices to enjoy a satisfying bowl of comfort food. It’s rich, hearty, and flexible enough to suit strict carnivore eaters or those who prefer a keto-friendly twist with light seasonings.

This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet flavorful enough for meal prep or family gatherings. Whether you enjoy it plain or with extra toppings, this chili will quickly become a go-to staple on your carnivore journey.

Carnivore Chili with Ground Beef and Bacon Recipe Card

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 or fattier blend)

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced

• 1 cup beef bone broth

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 oz cream cheese (or 2 tbsp heavy cream for strict carnivore)

• 1 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Optional (for relaxed carnivore): ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving 1–2 tbsp of the rendered fat in the pot.

2. Add ground beef to the pot. Break it apart and cook until browned.

3. Return the bacon to the pot. Pour in beef bone broth, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings. Stir to combine.

4. Simmer uncovered on low for 15–20 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce and thicken.

5. Stir in butter and cream cheese (or heavy cream) until fully melted and creamy.

6. Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot.

Notes

• For strict carnivore, omit optional spices and stick to beef, bacon, broth, salt, and dairy.

• Use fattier ground beef (75/25) or mix in beef liver or suet for extra richness and nutrients.

• For meal prep, make a double batch and freeze portions for quick reheating.

• Add a fried or poached egg on top for a protein boost.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 540 kcal

• Protein: 38 g

• Fat: 42 g

• Saturated Fat: 18 g

• Cholesterol: 160 mg

• Carbohydrates: 1 g

• Net Carbs: 0 g

• Sodium: 820 mg

Recipe Details

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

• Method: Simmered / One-pot

• Cuisine: Carnivore / Keto

• Servings: 4

• Calories: 540 kcal per serving

• Yield: 1 pot (about 4 bowls)