This hearty slow cooker chili is packed with tasty beans, juicy ground meat, and a mix of spices that warm you from inside out. Perfect for cozy nights!
I love how simple it is to throw everything in the pot and let it cook while I relax. Plus, it makes my kitchen smell amazing! You can top it with cheese or enjoy it solo—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Beef adds richness to the chili. If you want a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, swap it for lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
Kidney Beans: These beans add a nice texture and protein. You can substitute with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different taste.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide sweetness and moisture. If fresh tomatoes are available, chop them up and use about 2 cups. You can also use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
Chili Powder: This spice blend is key for the chili’s flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of cumin, paprika, and cayenne can work. Adjust the amounts for desired heat.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics give depth to your chili. If you’re short on fresh onion or garlic, onion powder and garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use less as they are more concentrated.
How Do You Make Your Chili Extra Flavorful?
To elevate the flavor, focus on the browning of the beef and cooking the aromatics. Here’s how to do it right:
- Brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. This releases natural fats that add flavor.
- Cook onions and garlic until soft in the same skillet to enhance their sweet and savory notes. Scrape the bottom for brown bits before transferring everything to the slow cooker.
- Combine spices with the onion and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. This helps release their flavors and makes your chili pop!
Don’t rush the cooking; let everything simmer to develop a deeper flavor. Enjoy your delicious chili!
Slow Cooker Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation. Then, you can set it in the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Overall, it’s a delicious and easy meal for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Make sure to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
2. Add Your Veggies and Beans:
In the slow cooker, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and tomato sauce. This will create a flavorful base for your chili.
3. Season Your Chili:
To give your chili a kick, add in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Pour in the beef broth or water, and stir everything well to combine.
4. Cook It Up:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook. If you’re on a time crunch, set it to high for about 3-4 hours. If you’re preparing for the day, set it on low for 6-8 hours. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors will meld together!
5. Adjust and Serve:
When the cooking time is up, taste your chili. If you want, add more salt or spices to suit your palate. Serve it hot in bowls, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions if desired.
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Slow Cooker Chili!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lighter alternative that works great in this recipe. Just follow the same steps, and you’ll have a delicious chili with a different flavor profile.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with 1-2 cups of cooked lentils or a meat substitute. You can also add more beans or veggies for added texture and flavor!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes! Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve with This Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice. You can also serve it with a fresh side salad or topped with nacho ingredients for a fun twist!