Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe

There’s nothing better than a warm, hearty bowl of chili on a cool day, and this Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe makes it effortless to prepare. It’s packed with rich flavors, tender ground beef, beans, and the perfect blend of spices. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this chili will satisfy your cravings with minimal effort. Just throw the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work!

Chili is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug, especially on cold nights or game days. What makes this Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe so appealing is its simplicity. You can prepare it in the morning, let it simmer all day, and come home to a delicious, hearty dinner. Using a slow cooker not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a rich, savory chili that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

• While it’s not necessary, browning the ground beef before adding it to the crockpot helps to enhance the flavor. In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to your slow cooker.

2. Combine Ingredients:

• Add the onions, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and green chilies into the crockpot along with the browned beef.
• Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want extra heat.
• Give everything a good stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

3. Cook the Chili:

• Cover the crockpot and cook the chili on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together, creating a rich and flavorful chili.
• If the chili is too thick toward the end of the cooking time, you can add a little water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

Cooking Tips for Crockpot Chili

• Adjusting the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, you can add more cayenne or even some diced jalapeños.
• Meat Choices: While ground beef is traditional, you can swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of beef and sausage for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Chili is one of those dishes that’s made even better with the right toppings and sides. Here are some ideas:

• Toppings:
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey jack, or pepper jack)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Diced green onions or chives
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sides:
  • Warm cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping
  • A simple side salad to balance out the meal
  • A slice of buttered garlic bread for extra indulgence

Storing and Freezing Chili

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Freezing Chili:

Crockpot chili freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Chili: Skip the meat and add more beans, such as pinto or cannellini, along with diced vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Turkey or Chicken Chili: For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. It’s a lighter version that still packs a flavorful punch.
• Smoky Chili: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or some diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky twist.

Conclusion

This Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or whenever you’re craving something hearty and comforting. The best part? The slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy the mouthwatering aroma filling your home. With minimal prep and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious chili that’s perfect for any occasion.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chili without browning the meat first? Yes, you can skip browning the meat and add it directly to the crockpot. Browning it first adds flavor but isn’t strictly necessary.
2. What beans work best in chili? Kidney beans are traditional, but black beans, pinto beans, or even a mix of all three can be used for variety.
3. Can I make this chili spicier? Definitely! To increase the heat, add more cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
4. How do I thicken or thin the chili? If your chili is too thick, you can add a little water or beef broth to thin it out. To thicken, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or stir in a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina.
5. Can I make this chili in advance? Yes! Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. It’s a great dish to make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.

Yield: 8

Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe

Print

There’s nothing better than a warm, hearty bowl of chili on a cool day, and this Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe makes it effortless to prepare. It’s packed with rich flavors, tender ground beef, beans, and the perfect blend of spices. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this chili will satisfy your cravings with minimal effort. Just throw the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 3 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 juices)
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
• 1 ½ tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado, tortilla chips

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are soft (about 5-7 minutes).
• Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot.

2. Add the Rest of the Ingredients:

• Add the drained beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, black pepper, and beef broth into the crockpot.
• Stir everything together to combine well.

3. Slow Cook:

• Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook the chili on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
• Stir occasionally, and adjust the seasoning if needed.

4. Serve:

• Once the chili is done, serve it hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or tortilla chips.

Notes

Make it spicier: Add more cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Vegetarian option: You can easily make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Thicker chili: If you prefer thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes.

Freezing: Chili freezes well! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.