There’s a weird sense of pride when the dog licks the bowl clean, then goes back to make sure not a single molecule was missed.
This homemade chili ground beef recipe isn’t just a hit—it’s tail-wagging, nose-in-the-air, full-body-wiggle approved. No mystery meat, no sketchy fillers. Just real ingredients, fast prep, and big results.
Perfect for anyone looking to feed their dog with a little more love (and a lot fewer preservatives). Let’s get into it.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- ½ cup peas
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup low-sodium beef broth (optional for extra moisture)
Pro Tips
- Skip the seasoning – No onions, garlic, salt, or spices. Tastes bland to humans, but it’s perfect for dogs.
- Stick to lean meat – Keeps the fat content down, which is easier on the digestive system (and the carpet).
- Chop vegetables small – Dogs don’t chew like humans. Smaller pieces mean better digestion and less selective nibbling.
- Let it cool completely – Dogs don’t understand “hot food.” Avoid burned tongues.
- Start small with new foods – Mix a little into regular meals at first and watch for reactions. Every dog’s different.
Tools Required
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Airtight containers for storage
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for beef if preferred.
- Quinoa works well instead of brown rice for dogs with grain sensitivities.
- Frozen mixed vegetables can save time—just double-check there’s no corn, onion, or garlic.
- Pumpkin puree (unsweetened) adds fiber and can be stirred in if digestion needs a boost.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Double the batch and freeze in single-serve portions.
- Let cooked food cool completely before sealing and storing.
- Use silicone muffin tins to portion out meals for freezing—pop out one serving at a time.
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef. Drain off excess fat.
- Add chopped carrots, green beans, and peas. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the cooked brown rice and olive oil. Mix until everything is combined.
- Add beef broth if using and simmer another 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for later use.
Additional Details
Nutritional Breakdown (approx. per serving):
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 10g
For Special Diets:
- Low-fat version: Swap beef for ground turkey
- Grain-free: Skip the rice and increase veggies
- Sensitive stomachs: Use white rice instead of brown and avoid broth
Time-Saving Tips:
- Use pre-chopped or frozen veggies
- Cook rice in bulk at the start of the week
- Cook the meat and veg mix while the rice is going to save time
Meal Pairing:
- Great served alone or mixed into kibble
- Works well with a little plain yogurt or a spoonful of pumpkin on the side
Leftovers and Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
- Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months
- Always thaw overnight in the fridge—not on the counter
- Stir before serving in case liquids separate
FAQ
Can humans eat this? Technically, yes. It’s real food—just unseasoned. But it’s definitely made for dogs, not dinner guests.
How much should be served per meal? That depends on the dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Start with ½ cup per 25 lbs of body weight and adjust from there. When in doubt, ask a vet.
Can rice be skipped? Absolutely. For a grain-free version, just add more veggies or mix in sweet potato.
Does this meet all of a dog’s nutritional needs? Not on its own for long-term use. This is best used as a topper or part of a rotation unless working with a vet or canine nutritionist.
Wrap Up
Feeding a dog doesn’t need to be complicated, expensive, or full of ingredients that no one can pronounce. With this ground beef chili-style dog food recipe, it’s simple to create something fresh, wholesome, and tail-thump worthy.
Try it out, then drop a comment to share how it went—or any tips you’ve picked up making meals for your four-legged bestie.
Want another dog food recipe with a twist next time? Say the word.
