Smoked Over The Top No-Bean Chili Recipe

Smoked Over The Top (OTT) No-Bean Chili takes classic chili to the next level by smoking a large seasoned beef mixture over a simmering pot of chili ingredients. As the beef slowly cooks, it drips its juices into the chili, infusing it with incredible smoky richness. This hearty, meaty chili is perfect for game days, cold nights, or any time you’re craving bold, smoky flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smoky and rich – The Traeger infuses deep wood-fired flavor into every bite.
• Thick and hearty – No beans, just tender, seasoned beef and bold spices.
• Unique cooking method – The beef smokes “over the top” before being crumbled into the chili.
• Perfect for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable heat level – Make it mild or spicy to your liking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Over The Top Beef:

• Ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder

For the Chili Base:

• Olive oil
• Yellow onion, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (optional for heat)
• Smoked paprika
• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Smoker

1. Set your Traeger to 250°F and preheat for about 15 minutes. Use hickory, mesquite, or oak pellets for a deep smoky flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Chili Base

2. Sauté onions and garlic – Heat olive oil in a cast-iron Dutch oven on the stovetop or directly on the Traeger. Add diced onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Add the tomatoes and seasonings – Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne. Let simmer while preparing the beef.

Step 3: Prepare the Over The Top Beef

4. Season the beef – In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and chili powder.
5. Form a meatloaf shape – Shape the seasoned beef into a round loaf (like a giant meatball) and place it on a wire rack or grill grate directly over the Dutch oven.

Step 4: Smoke the Chili

6. Smoke for 2–2.5 hours – Let the beef cook over the chili until it reaches an internal temperature of 155–165°F. The drippings will enhance the chili’s flavor.
7. Break up the beef – Once done, remove the beef and crumble it into the chili. Stir well.
8. Simmer for another 30 minutes – Let the chili continue to cook, uncovered, to blend flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

9. Garnish and serve – Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, or diced onions.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2.5–3 hours
• Total Time: 3–3.5 hours

Variations

• Spicy OTT Chili – Add extra chipotle peppers, cayenne, or diced fresh jalapeños.
• Keto-Friendly Version – Use bone broth for extra nutrients and skip any sugar-based sauces.
• Beer-Infused Chili – Replace some of the beef broth with a dark Mexican or stout beer.
• Brisket Over The Top Chili – Use ground brisket instead of regular ground beef for an extra beefy flavor.
• Venison Chili – Swap beef for ground venison for a leaner alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over medium heat or microwave in short bursts.
• Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What makes Over The Top Chili different?

The beef smokes above the chili, dripping flavorful juices into the pot before being crumbled in.

What’s the best wood for smoking OTT chili?

Hickory, mesquite, or oak add deep, bold smoky flavors.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Smoke the beef separately, then add everything to a slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours.

Can I make this chili spicier?

Absolutely! Increase cayenne, add diced jalapeños, or use hot smoked paprika.

Why no beans?

This is a Texas-style chili that focuses on meat and bold spices without beans.

What can I serve with OTT chili?

Try cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, or a side of grilled vegetables.

Can I use pre-made chili seasoning?

Yes! A store-bought chili seasoning mix works if you’re short on time.

How do I thicken the chili?

Simmer uncovered longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water).

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, but turkey is leaner, so consider adding extra olive oil for moisture.

What’s the best way to serve this chili?

Topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or fresh cilantro.

Conclusion

Smoked Over The Top No-Bean Chili is a bold, smoky, and meaty dish that’s perfect for chilly nights, tailgates, and meal prepping. The “Over The Top” method infuses every bite with smoky beefy goodness, making this one of the best chili recipes you’ll ever try. Fire up your Traeger and enjoy a bowl of this rich, hearty chili today!

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