Slow Cooker Chili: Hearty & Easy Comfort Food
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Chili to bring comfort and satisfaction. This hearty recipe features seasoned ground beef, tender beans, and bold spices simmered low and slow for hours. The result? A rich, thick, and deeply flavorful chili with minimal effort—just set it and forget it.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chili?
- Effortless Comfort Food: The slow cooker does all the work.
- Bold, Deep Flavor: Spices and ingredients meld together beautifully over time.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for potlucks, tailgates, or family dinners.
- Versatile: Add your favorite toppings or swap in ground turkey or plant-based meat.
Ingredients For Slow Cooker Chili
This slow-cooked chili is simple to prepare but packs a ton of flavor. Gather these ingredients to create your perfect bowl of chili.
For the Chili:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For Serving:
- Sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, cilantro (optional toppings)
Step By Step Instruction To Make Slow Cooker Chili
This recipe is a breeze to make—simply toss everything into your slow cooker, let it simmer, and enjoy the delicious results.
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked meat and veggies to your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato paste, beef broth, and all of the spices. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The chili will be thick and flavorful when done.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or cilantro, if desired. Serve with warm cornbread or tortilla chips.
PRO TIP: For even more depth of flavor, let the chili sit in the slow cooker for an additional 30 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld.
FAQs or Tips Section
Here are some tips and answers to help you make the most of your Slow Cooker Chili.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Can I make this chili spicy?
Absolutely! Increase the cayenne pepper, add chopped fresh jalapeños, or use hot chili powder for a spicier kick.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
No problem! You can make this chili in a large pot on the stovetop. Simmer over low heat for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Variations or Serving Suggestions
Here are a few ideas to customize your chili or make it even more delicious.
- Top it off: Add a dollop of sour cream, sprinkle with shredded cheese, or garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Add veggies: Toss in some diced carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for added texture and flavor.
- Serve with sides: Enjoy your chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad on the side.
- Chili Cheese Fries: For a fun twist, pour the chili over crispy fries and top with cheese for a chili cheese fry night!
Nutrition + Summary
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition per serving (1 cup of chili):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
Slow Cooker Chili is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its robust flavors and simple ingredients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prepping, making it a go-to for busy weeks ahead. Enjoy!
Disclaimer: Nutritional information on this blog is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and portions. We are not nutritionists and recommend consulting a professional for specific dietary advice.