Slow Cooker Chili

When the temperature drops and you crave something deeply satisfying, nothing beats the convenience and flavor of Slow Cooker Chili. This recipe is a classic American comfort food, bringing together savory ground beef, a medley of beans, and a rich tomato base infused with aromatic spices. It is designed for busy days, allowing you to set everything in the morning and return to a house filled with a warm, inviting scent.

Save

The beauty of this chili lies in its slow-simmered depth. By cooking the ingredients on low for several hours, the smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder meld with the juices of the beef and tomatoes, creating a complex flavor profile that quick stovetop versions often lack. Whether you are a chili purist or love loading yours with toppings, this base recipe provides the perfect foundation.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey, if preferred)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz/425 g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz/425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz/800 g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz/425 g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat. While optional, browning adds significant flavor.

Step 2: Assemble in Slow Cooker

Add the cooked beef, onion, garlic, bell pepper, kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Seasoning

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Step 4: Combine

Stir to combine all ingredients well.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture, ensure your beans are well-rinsed to remove excess starch. If you prefer a thicker chili, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Using a slow cooker with at least a 5-quart capacity ensures there is plenty of room for all the hearty ingredients to simmer evenly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly adaptable. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add an extra can of beans or some corn. If you love a smoky flavor, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this hearty meal alongside a slice of warm cornbread or over a bed of fluffy white rice. Topping it with shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro adds a beautiful contrast of temperatures and textures. It is also delicious when served with tortilla chips for a little extra crunch.

Save

This Slow Cooker Chili is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can produce extraordinary results. It is a reliable, comforting dish that stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Gather your bowls and enjoy this quintessential winter meal.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I skip browning the ground beef?

Yes, you can add raw ground beef directly to the slow cooker for a true dump-and-go approach. However, browning the meat first adds deeper flavor and allows you to drain excess fat.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Simply omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans, corn, or diced vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian version.

→ Can I freeze leftover chili?

Absolutely! This chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

→ What's the best way to adjust the spice level?

For milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For more heat, add diced jalapeños, extra cayenne, or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. Adjust to your personal preference.

→ Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-8 hours. The low setting allows flavors to develop more fully, but high works well when you're short on time.

→ What are the best toppings for this chili?

Classic toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips. Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.