Name: Slow Cooker Chili
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef; 1 cup Chopped Onion; 1 cup Diced Green Bell Pepper; 1 tsp Chili Powder; 0.5 tsp Cumin; 15 oz Canned Diced Tomatoes; 15 oz Kidney Beans (drained and rinsed)

Let’s talk comfort food. What is a warm bowl of chili? What is a chili? This is the slow cooker chili recipe my family has been making for years, the one that fills up the entire house. The house with the most amazing aroma, and the one that everyone begs for when the weather turns cold. What is the difference between a slow cooker and stovetop chili? Is it ridiculously What’s the chili equivalent of a warm hug on cold days? What is Grandma’s beef stew?

What is slow cooker chili?

What is slow cooker chili? What is the best substitute for ground meat? ), beans, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and a whole lotta spices – all simmered together in slow cooker. Cooker for hours. Think of it as a big pot of deliciousness that practically cooks itself. What is a hands-off version of chili? Just don’t feel like hovering over the stove. Is it okay to dump everything in a bowl, set it, and forget it until it’s time to eat?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What are some of the best slow cooker chili recipes?

The Flavor!This isn’t your bland, boring chili. We’re talking deep, rich, complex flavors that develop over hours of slow cooking. The spices meld together beautifully, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. The slight kick of chili powder is balanced by the sweetness of tomatoes. What is it like to live in a world where
EffortlessIs this recipe foolproof? What’s the best way to cook veggies in a slow cooker? Is it necessary to stand over a hot stove while stirring? Is it a lifesaver on busy weekends?
Budget FriendlyWhat are the best ground beef, canned tomatoes, and roasted beans? How do you feed a crowd without breaking the bank? What are some ways to serve it with rice or cornbread?
Super Versatile:Why should I add corn? Can you customize this recipe to suit your taste? What are some good ways to make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it all week long? I sometimes throw in a can of pumpkin puree to add sweetness and extra nutrients – I like it. Don’t knock it until you try it!

What I love about this is how forgiving it is. Can you adjust the spice level to your liking, add more or less of your favorite ingredients? Even use different types of meat. Is there a recipe you can make your own? I used to make my chili on the stove top but now, its all about that slow cooker, you just can’t. How do you replicate the depth of flavors?

How do I make slow cooker chili?

Quick Overview

What is a slow cooker chili recipe? You’ll start by browning ground beef (or turkey or plant-based crumbles) on the stovetop. What’s the best way to cook beans in a slow cooker? What are some of the best spices to What is the best way to give it a good stir, set it on low, and let it simmer for 6-8 hours? What is a slow cooking chili? incredibly rich and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chili:

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, or plant-based crumbles) – I prefer 80/20 ground meat for the flavor. What is the best flavor of ground beef?
1 large onion, chopped – Yellow or white onions work great.
1 green bell pepper, chopped – You can use red or orange bells for a sweeter flavor.
Freshly minced garlic is always best!
I like to use crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture. 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomato.
1 can tomato sauce – This adds extra depth of flavor.
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – These add some chunky texture to the chili.
I love kidney beans in chili, but you can use any kind of beans. I use 1 can (15 ounces) of kidney bean, rinsed and drained. Can you make black beans, pinto beans or a combination of all three?
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained – Adds a nice contrast to the kidney beans.
2 tablespoons chili powder – Adjust to your liking. I like to use a mild Chili powder.
1 teaspoon cumin – This adds a warm, earthy flavor.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – This adds smoky depth to the chili.
1/2 teaspoon oregano – This adds a hint of Italian flavor.
What’s a good cayenne pepper?
1 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adjust to taste.

Optional Toppings

What are some good shredded cheeses to try: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend?
Sour cream or Greek yogurt – Adds a creamy tang.
Chopped green onions – For a fresh, oniony flavor.
Avocado slices – Adds a creamy richness.
Tortilla chips – For dipping and crunching!

What are the steps in

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef (or turkey or plant-based crumbles). Drain off any excess grease. I always use a meat chopper to break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. I like to keep it clean. What makes for better texture in the final chili?

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

What is the best way to cook onion and bell pepper in a large skillet over medium heat? Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma at this point is just heavenly!

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned meat and sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and kidney beans, black beans and chili powder. Stir well. Cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper. What is the best way to give everything a good stir?

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. I normally do low because I find the flavor is way more intesne!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the chili is cooked, give it a good stir and taste to adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings. What is your favorite combination of shredded cheddar cheese, Sour Cream, chopped green onions, and a few more? What is crushed tortilla chips?

5. What to Serve It With

Okay, so you’ve got a big pot of amazing **slow cooker chili**, but what do you serve it with? Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

For a Classic Meal:

Cornbread: A warm, buttery slice of cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of chili. I love a slightly sweet cornbread to balance the spiciness of the chili.
Rice: Serve the chili over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for a hearty and filling meal.

For a Fun and Festive Gathering:

Tortilla Chips and Dip: Set out a bowl of tortilla chips with various toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa so your guests can customize their chili.
Chili Cheese Fries: Load up some crispy fries with chili and cheese for a decadent treat.

For a Lighter Meal:

Salad: Serve a small side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chili.
Baked Potato: Top a baked potato with chili and your favorite toppings for a satisfying and healthy meal.

One of my family’s favorite traditions is to have a “chili bar” where everyone can customize their bowl with their favorite toppings. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy this classic dish.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Slow Cooker Chili

Want to take your **slow cooker chili** to the next level? Here are a few of my top tips:

Don’t skip the browning step: Browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t get otherwise. It’s worth the extra few minutes of effort.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices: Chili powder is the base, but feel free to add other spices like cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper to create your own unique flavor profile.
Use high-quality tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes will directly impact the flavor of your chili. I recommend using crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce from a reputable brand.
Adjust the spice level to your liking: If you prefer a milder chili, use a mild chili powder and omit the cayenne pepper. If you like it hot, use a hotter chili powder or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Let it simmer for as long as possible: The longer the chili simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. I recommend cooking it on low for at least 6 hours.
Taste and adjust seasonings: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to achieve your desired flavor.
Don’t forget the toppings: Toppings are what really make chili special. Set out a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices, and tortilla chips so everyone can customize their bowl.

I’ve learned over the years that the secret to great chili is to start with good ingredients, take your time, and don’t be afraid to experiment. And always, always taste and adjust seasonings as you go!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! **Slow cooker chili** is even better the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Room Temperature:
I really don’t recommend this if the chili has been sitting out for over 2 hours, there are certain food borne illness at bay.

Refrigerator Storage:
Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezer Instructions:
For longer storage, freeze the chili in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Glaze Timing Advice:N/A since its chili and not pastry !

Reheating:
Reheat the chili in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it frequently to ensure even heating. If the chili is too thick, add a little water or broth to thin it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or omit it altogether. You can also add extra beans or vegetables like corn, zucchini, or sweet potatoes to make it even more filling. Just be sure to check the ingredients of your vegetable broth to ensure it’s vegan.

Can I use different types of beans?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different types of beans like pinto beans, great northern beans, or cannellini beans. You can even use a combination of different beans for a more complex flavor.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Chili is a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Feel free to add corn, zucchini, sweet potatoes, carrots, or any other vegetables you like.

How can I make it spicier?

To make the chili spicier, you can use a hotter chili powder, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, or include a chopped jalapeño pepper.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables using the “sauté” function. Then, add the remaining ingredients, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.

Final Thoughts

This **slow cooker chili** is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a memory, and a source of comfort. I hope you and your family enjoy it as much as mine does. It’s the perfect meal for a chilly day, a potluck gathering, or a simple weeknight dinner. And who knows, it might just become your family’s secret weapon too! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other slow cooker recipes for more easy and delicious meals. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!