This Slow Cooker Chili is a warm and cozy meal that’s full of flavor! With tender beans, ground meat, and a mix of spices, it’s perfect for chilly days.
The best part? You just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic! I like to add some bread on the side for dipping—yum!
Making chili in a slow cooker is so simple, you hardly need to watch it. Just set it and enjoy the wonderful smells filling your kitchen!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is classic for chili, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, substitute with lentils or black beans.
Kidney Beans: Kidney beans add texture, but feel free to swap them out for black beans or pinto beans if that’s what you have.
Onion and Garlic: Yellow or white onion works perfectly for sweetness. If you dislike chopping onions, use onion powder instead! Garlic powder can also be used in a pinch.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are key for flavor. If you want more heat, add more cayenne or use a spicy chili powder. Smoked paprika gives a nice smokey touch, but if you can’t find it, skip it or use regular paprika.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in Your Chili?
The magic in chili comes from layering flavors, so don’t rush the sautéing process! Browning the ground beef adds depth and richness, while cooking the onions and garlic together enhances their sweetness.
- Use a wide skillet for browning beef for even cooking.
- Make sure to scrape up all those brown bits from the bottom after cooking the meat—they pack tons of flavor!
- Let the chili cook low and slow. If you can, give it the full 6-8 hours on low. Patience rewards you with well-developed flavors.
By following these tips, you can create a chili that’s rich, hearty, and just right for cozy nights!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) 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
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
- Sour cream, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, with cooking time depending on your setting. For a low and slow cook, set aside 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the high setting for 3-4 hours. Either way, it’s easy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain the excess fat from the skillet.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. This step brings amazing flavor to your chili!
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Now, transfer the beef, onion, and garlic mixture to your slow cooker. This is where all the magic happens!
4. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Add the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes (including the juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything well.
5. Season Your Chili:
Sprinkle in your chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together so the spices are mixed nicely.
6. Let it Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is to let all those tasty flavors meld together and the chili to thicken up.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust any seasonings if needed. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Slow Cooker Chili! Perfect for sharing on a cozy evening with friends or family.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just follow the same cooking steps, and you’ll have a delicious chili with less fat!
How Do I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with an extra can of beans (like black beans or pinto beans) or use lentils. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, leftover chili freezes wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve with Chili?
Chili is fantastic on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. Toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, or sliced avocado also work great!
