Pin it This Slow Cooker Chili is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for those cold winter days when you want a meal that warms you from the inside out. Packed with ground beef, tender beans, and a blend of bold spices, it is the ultimate easy-to-make comfort food.
Pin it The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By allowing the ingredients to simmer slowly for hours, the crushed tomatoes and beef broth create a rich base that perfectly complements the smokiness of the paprika and the heat of the chili powder.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey, if preferred)
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced
- Beans & Legumes: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz/425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- Tomatoes & Liquids: 1 can (28 oz/800 g) crushed tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz/425 g) diced tomatoes; 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 (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Step 1
- 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
- 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
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Step 4
- Stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Step 5
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Step 6
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Step 7
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra layer of complexity, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a smoky kick. If you have leftovers, this chili freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months, making it a great option for future quick dinners.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is easily adaptable for different diets. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans or some corn. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner alternative.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this chili hot in large bowls, ideally accompanied by a side of fresh cornbread or served over a bed of fluffy rice. Top it off with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and some fresh cilantro for the perfect finish.
Pin it Whether you are hosting a game day or looking for a simple weeknight meal, this Slow Cooker Chili is a reliable favorite. Its rich texture and balanced spices make it a dish you'll want to return to again and again.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this chili without browning the meat first?
Yes, you can skip browning the ground beef for a true dump-and-go approach. However, browning the meat first adds caramelized flavor and allows you to drain excess fat, resulting in a less greasy finished dish.
- → How long can I keep this chili warm in the slow cooker?
Once cooked, you can keep chili warm on the LOW setting for up to 2 hours. After that, the beans may become mushy and flavors can diminish. Transfer to containers and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
- → What toppings work best with this chili?
Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, or diced avocado all complement the flavors beautifully. Avocado adds creaminess while tortilla chips provide crunch.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. This chili freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Cool completely, transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags, label with the date, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.
- → How can I make this chili vegetarian?
Simply omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans (pinto or great northern work well) or one cup of corn kernels. Consider using vegetable broth instead of beef broth and adding a chopped portobello mushroom for umami depth.
- → What can I serve alongside this chili?
Cornbread is a classic pairing, but you can also serve over steamed white or brown rice, with baked potatoes, alongside crusty bread, or simply with saltine crackers. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad with vinaigrette.