This Crockpot Chili is warm, hearty, and perfect for a cozy day. With beans, ground beef, and tasty spices simmered together, it’s a meal that everyone will love!
I can’t resist how easy it is to throw everything in the pot and let it cook. Plus, the smell that fills my home is simply amazing—who doesn’t love that? 😋
In my house, we enjoy it with some cornbread on the side. It’s a simple dish that always warms your heart—and your belly! Give it a try; you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 85% lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and fat. You can use ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. Even plant-based ground meat works great for a vegetarian chili!
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans are classic choices. If you’re not a fan of these, feel free to swap with black beans or chickpeas. Just make sure to rinse them well before adding!
Spices: Chili powder is essential for that chili flavor. If you want a kick, add in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce the amount you use. I often add a little extra cumin for depth!
Tomatoes: The diced tomatoes bring sweetness and acidity. If you prefer, you can use fresh tomatoes (about 3 medium), or crushed tomatoes for a different texture. Canned fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky flavor!
How Can I Get the Perfect Consistency in My Chili?
Achieving the right consistency in chili is all about balancing the liquid. To avoid a soupy chili, use less beef broth if you prefer a thicker texture. You can also let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes to help thicken it up.
- Start with the recommended amount of beef broth and adjust as needed.
- If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth or water.
- For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans against the side of the crockpot with a fork.
Don’t forget, chili often thickens as it cools down, so it might seem a bit thinner right after cooking. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings for the best flavor!
How to Make Crockpot Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Meat: 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Canned Goods: 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- Spices: 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional Garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks comfortably in your slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy evening at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. This adds flavor to your chili!
3. Transfer to the Crockpot:
Pour the beef and onion mixture into your crockpot. It’s time to add all the rest of the ingredients!
4. Add the Rest:
To the crockpot, add the diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, drained pinto beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything well.
5. Spice it Up:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chili.
6. Cook Away:
Cover your crockpot and let it cook! Choose to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if you can, but it’s not necessary.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Once it’s done, taste your chili. Feel free to adjust the seasoning if it needs a little more salt or spice!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot chili in bowls, and sprinkle on your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro and green onions. Enjoy it with some tortilla chips or cornbread on the side for the complete experience!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just make sure to season it a bit more since it has a milder flavor than beef. It will work beautifully in this chili!
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Simply replace the ground beef with a mix of chopped vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms) and maybe add some lentils or more beans for protein. You can use vegetable broth instead of beef broth as well!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, chili freezes very well! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve With Crockpot Chili?
Chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side of rice. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or over baked potatoes for a hearty meal!
