Chili is a beloved dish that warms the soul and brings people together. This Slow Cooker Chili Recipe combines tender meat, hearty beans, and a blend of spices for a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and lets your slow cooker do all the work.
Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just need a comforting dinner, this chili is sure to impress!
Total Time Breakdown
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Browning Time: 10 minutes
- Transfer Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Tasting and Adjusting Time: 5 minutes
- Serving Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 6-8 hours 30 minutes (on low) or 3-4 hours 30 minutes (on high)
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chili
You will need the following ingredients to make this flavorful chili:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with or without green chilies)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, or avocado
Step-by-Step Directions for Slow Cooker Chili
1. Prep the Ingredients (10 minutes)
Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients:
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Measure out the spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
2. Brown the Meat (10 minutes)
In a skillet over medium heat:
- Add the ground beef (or your chosen meat) and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Tip: Browning the meat enhances the flavor, but you can skip this step for a quicker preparation.
3. Transfer to the Slow Cooker (5 minutes)
- Transfer the browned meat mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Cook the Chili (6-8 hours)
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as it releases heat and can prolong the cooking time.
5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning (5 minutes)
After the cooking time is up:
- Remove the lid and taste the chili. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
6. Serve (5 minutes)
Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced avocado
Serving Suggestions
This Slow Cooker Chili pairs perfectly with:
- Cornbread or crackers
- Rice or quinoa
- Baked potatoes for a hearty twist
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chili
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added nutrition and texture.
- Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the meat with lentils or extra beans and use vegetable broth to make a delicious vegetarian chili.
- Adjust Spice Level: Customize the heat by adding fresh jalapeños or more cayenne pepper, or keep it mild by reducing the spices.
- Chili Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, canned beans are a great time-saver. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the slow cooker.
2. Can I make this chili on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Sauté the meat, onions, and garlic in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes.
3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative to beef. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free broth and canned products.
This Slow Cooker Chili Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep, this chili will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Try it out and enjoy the cozy warmth of homemade chili any day of the week!
