This heart healthy beef chili recipe is a classic comfort food made lighter with 95% lean ground beef, vibrant peppers, and sautéed onions. By using crushed tomatoes and high protein kidney beans, you can create a thick, savory base for an easy healthy ground beef recipe that requires only one pot and budget-friendly ingredients.
Whether you are looking for a heart healthy dinner for a busy weeknight or a high protein meal prep option, this chili delivers deep flavor with minimal effort. It is an ideal low cholesterol recipe for those following a cardiac diet or looking for weight loss-friendly meals that taste delicious.
This recipe replaces traditional high-fat meats with extra-lean ground chuck to significantly reduce saturated fat while maximizing protein. Combined with fiber-dense kidney beans and no-salt-added tomatoes, it supports heart health and blood sugar management while delivering the classic chili flavor you love.
Yes! Simply brown the beef and sauté the onions and peppers on the stove first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Absolutely. This version is high in protein and fiber, which helps you feel full longer, making it an excellent choice for weight management.
Ensure you use "no-salt-added" canned goods and rinse your beans thoroughly. You can also replace the ketchup with a small amount of tomato paste and a splash of vinegar.
If you want a change from classic beef chili, try any of these tasty recipes that give chili a chicken, turkey, or vegetarian twist.
If you love beef, you’ll love these recipes that offer healthier versions of classic red-meat based dishes.
Recipe yields 16 servings
In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, cook beef until browned. Drain beef and transfer to a bowl. Set aside.
In the same pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add onion, jalapeños and garlic and sauté until onion is softened, about 4 minutes.
Add reserved beef and remaining ingredients and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Use ground turkey or ground chicken for a different lean protein profile.
Pinto beans or black beans work perfectly as a 1:1 swap.
If you prefer less heat, use diced green bell peppers or mild canned green chiles.
Add diced zucchini or carrots during the sauté step for added nutrients and volume.
Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or a small amount of chipotle in adobo sauce.