Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chili Recipe is your go-to dish for a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this chili packs rich flavors while being easy to prepare. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the ingredients to meld into a deliciously thick chili that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: Get your chili started in less than twenty minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and quality ingredients creates a robust taste that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a side at parties, game days, or family dinners.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from beans, it’s a nutritious option everyone can enjoy.
• Easy Cleanup: Using a slow cooker means fewer dishes to wash afterward!

Tools and Preparation

To make this slow cooker chili recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to simplify your cooking process. These tools help streamline preparation and ensure your chili turns out perfect every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is crucial for gently simmering the chili over several hours, allowing flavors to develop beautifully.
• Large skillet: Used for browning meat and sautéing onions and garlic; enhances flavor before adding to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables with ease.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of dicing onions and mincing garlic.

Ingredients

This thick beef slow cooker chili is prepped and in the pot in less than twenty minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknight schedules. Enjoy it with cornbread and all the fixings.

For the Chili Base

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 large sweet onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste

For the Vegetables and Beans

• 2 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 (15.5-ounce) can dark red kidney beans drained and rinsed
• 1 (15.5-ounce) can pinto beans drained and rinsed

For Seasoning

• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne
• kosher salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked.
2. Add the finely chopped onion halfway through cooking until soft.
3. Stir in minced garlic; cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
4. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the browned meat mixture into the slow cooker.
2. Whisk together low-sodium beef broth and tomato paste; pour over the meat mixture.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Add diced tomatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook Your Chili

1. Cover with the lid; set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

1. Once cooked, taste your chili and adjust seasoning with more kosher salt or black pepper if needed before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chili Recipe!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

Serving your slow cooker chili is just as important as making it. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this hearty dish that will elevate your dining experience.

With Cornbread

• Classic Pairing: Serve warm cornbread alongside the chili for a comforting and traditional meal.

Topped with Cheese

• Cheesy Goodness: Add shredded cheese on top of the chili for a creamy texture and extra flavor.

With Sour Cream

• Creamy Contrast: A dollop of sour cream can cut through the heat and adds a nice creaminess to each bite.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Fresh Crunch: Chopped green onions sprinkled on top provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color.

Served in Bread Bowls

• Unique Presentation: Hollow out a bread roll to create an edible bowl for your chili, making it fun to eat!

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

Perfecting your slow cooker chili recipe can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve chili perfection.

• Use Quality Meat: Select fresh ground beef or turkey for the best flavor—leaner options will keep it healthy.
• Sauté Vegetables First: Browning onions and garlic before adding them enhances their flavors, giving your chili depth.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less chili powder, cayenne, or red pepper flakes according to your taste.
• Let It Simmer Longer: For even richer flavors, let it cook longer on low heat; the ingredients meld beautifully over time.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your chili before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker chili enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Rice: White or brown rice serves as a mild base that complements the bold flavors of the chili.
2. Salad: A fresh green salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty nature of the chili.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a delicious side that works well with spicy dishes like chili.
4. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy chips offers a delightful textural contrast.
5. Jalapeño Poppers: These spicy stuffed peppers are a perfect finger food that pairs well with chili’s warmth.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as another hearty option, allowing guests to top them with leftover chili!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a slow cooker chili recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the browning step: This can lead to a less flavorful chili. Always brown your meat and onions first to enhance the overall taste.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Chili needs the right balance of spices. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings according to your preference.
• Overloading the slow cooker: Filling it too high may prevent proper cooking. Always follow the recommended capacity for best results.
• Neglecting bean prep: Rinsing canned beans is essential to remove excess sodium. Skip this step, and your chili might taste overly salty.
• Not allowing sufficient cooking time: Chili benefits from long cooking times. Avoid rushing it; low and slow produces the best flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow chili to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as chili expands when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chili in an oven-safe dish for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, which usually takes about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this a great Slow Cooker Chili Recipe?

This slow cooker chili recipe combines rich flavors with tender ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chili?

You can set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing you flexibility based on your schedule.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

What can I serve with my Slow Cooker Chili?

Pair it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Is this Slow Cooker Chili Recipe healthy?

Yes! With lean ground beef or turkey and plenty of beans and tomatoes, it’s packed with protein and fiber while being low in calories.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker chili recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Experience the comforting warmth of this Slow Cooker Chili Recipe, a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This hearty dish combines the richness of ground beef or turkey with a medley of beans and spices, resulting in a robust flavor that will satisfy any appetite. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can easily set it and forget it while the slow cooker works its magic. Each bite is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option for everyone at the table. Whether served with cornbread or as part of a game day spread, this chili will quickly become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 large sweet onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 2 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes and green chilies
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 (15.5-ounce) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15.5-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne
• kosher salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until fully cooked. Add the onion halfway through cooking until soft, then stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker. Whisk together beef broth and tomato paste; pour over the meat.
3. Add diced tomatoes, beans, and all spices to the slow cooker.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 70mg