This Crockpot Chili is a warm, hearty meal filled with beans, tomatoes, and spices. Just toss everything in the pot and let it cook slowly—no fuss involved!
I love coming home to the delicious smell wafting through the house. It’s perfect for chilly days and tastes even better the next day. Who needs takeout when you can have this? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The beef provides a hearty foundation. You can substitute with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative if you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option.
Beans: Kidney and black beans contribute protein and texture. Feel free to mix and match with pinto beans or chickpeas if you prefer—or use all one type!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add moisture and flavor. If you have fresh tomatoes, you can chop those up instead. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking time as fresh tomatoes might take longer to soften.
Spices: Chili powder is key, but if you want to kick things up a notch, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce! For milder flavors, reduce the chili powder and skip the smoked paprika.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor in My Crockpot Chili?
Flavor development in chili is important, and a few steps can really boost it. First, browning the meat and onions creates a deeper flavor. Don’t skip this step! Make sure to drain excess fat for a healthier chili.
- Cook ground beef and onion until brown in a skillet before adding to the crockpot.
- Add garlic last, as it cooks quickly and keeps its flavor sharp.
- Let the chili cook on low for the full time; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Taste before serving! Adjusting seasonings at the end can make a big difference.
With these tips, your Crockpot Chili will not only be easy to make but also bursting with flavor! Enjoy!
How to Make Crockpot Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crockpot Chili will take about 10 minutes to prep, and then you’ll let it cook. You can cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook them together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep it healthy!
2. Add the Garlic:
Once the beef is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another minute, just until you can smell the garlic. This adds a lovely flavor.
3. Move to the Crockpot:
Transfer the beef and onion mixture into your crockpot. This is where the magic happens!
4. Add the Other Ingredients:
Next, add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the crockpot. This mixture will make your chili nice and rich!
5. Mix in the Spices:
Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors blend together!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Once it’s cooked, give your chili a taste. If you think it needs more spice or salt, this is the time to adjust it. Your taste buds will be happy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro. It’s ready to warm you up!
This slow-cooker chili is delicious, hearty, and perfect for cozy gatherings. Enjoy every spoonful! 😊
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just follow the same cooking instructions—browning it in the skillet helps enhance the flavor. It may be a bit lighter in taste, so consider adding an extra pinch of spices!
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with your favorite meat substitute, like lentils or chopped mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add more beans or vegetables for a hearty texture.
What Can I Serve with Crockpot Chili?
Crockpot chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad for a well-rounded meal. Don’t forget your favorite toppings for added flavor!