Slow Cooker Chili

When the temperature drops and you're craving a meal that warms you from the inside out, this Slow Cooker Chili is the ultimate solution. Thick, hearty, and packed with savory ground beef and two types of beans, it is a quintessential American comfort dish that requires very little effort for a high-flavor reward.

Save

This recipe is designed for busy schedules. By letting the ingredients simmer slowly for hours, the spices meld perfectly with the tomatoes and beef, creating a rich sauce that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. It's the perfect cozy family dinner for those chilly evenings.

Ingredients

• Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
• Vegetables: 1 medium onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• Beans & Legumes: 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans and 1 can (15 oz) black beans (both drained and rinsed)
• Tomatoes & Liquids: 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes, 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, and 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
• Spices & Seasonings: 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat. (Optional: You may skip browning for a true dump-and-go, but browning adds flavor.)

Step 2: Assemble

Add the cooked beef, onion, garlic, bell pepper, kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Season

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.

Step 4: Stir

Stir to combine all ingredients well.

Step 5: Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.

Step 6: Adjust

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, use a slow cooker with at least a 5-quart capacity to allow the flavors to circulate. While browning the meat is optional, taking that extra 10 minutes helps develop a deeper, more savory profile that complements the smoked paprika and cumin.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans or some sweet corn. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey works beautifully as a substitute for beef without sacrificing texture.

Serviervorschläge

This hearty chili is delicious on its own, but it becomes a complete meal when served with golden cornbread or over a bed of fluffy white rice. Don't forget the toppings—shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro add the perfect finishing touches.

Save

Enjoy this comforting bowl of chili that provides 370 calories and 28g of protein per serving. It's a reliable, delicious staple that will surely become a winter favorite in your household.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this chili without browning the meat first?

Yes, you can skip browning the meat for a true dump-and-go method. However, browning the ground beef first adds depth of flavor and helps drain excess fat, resulting in a richer-tasting chili.

→ How can I make this chili vegetarian?

Simply omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans or some corn. You can also substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth. The spices and tomatoes will still provide plenty of flavor.

→ Can I cook this chili on high heat to save time?

Yes, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-8 hours. The low and slow method tends to develop deeper flavors, but high heat works well when you're short on time.

→ How long can I store leftover chili?

Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ What can I serve with this chili?

This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, over rice, or with tortilla chips. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or diced avocado for added flavor and texture.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

For milder chili, omit the cayenne pepper and reduce the chili powder. For more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for extra smoky spiciness.