Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

This Slow Cooker Chili Recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. With hearty flavors and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the hassle. This chili is versatile enough to serve at family dinners, game day gatherings, or a cozy night in. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with cornbread and your favorite toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can have this chili ready in under twenty minutes, making it an ideal choice for hectic evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and slow cooking brings out deep flavors that will warm you up from the inside.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap in ground turkey or beans to cater to dietary preferences while keeping it delicious.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields eight servings, perfect for meal prep or feeding family and friends.
• Comfort Food: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of chili to bring comfort on chilly nights.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Chili Recipe, you’ll need a few basic tools. Having the right equipment not only makes the process smoother but also enhances the overall cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for long, slow cooking that melds flavors beautifully with minimal effort.
• Large skillet: Essential for browning meat and sautéing onions and garlic to build flavor before adding to the slow cooker.

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
• 2 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes

For the Beans

• 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. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef or turkey.
3. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion halfway through browning, cooking until soft.
5. Stir in minced garlic; cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
6. Drain excess grease if necessary, then transfer the mixture to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth and tomato paste until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture over the meat in the slow cooker.
3. Add diced tomatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Slow Cook Your Chili

1. Cover your slow cooker with its lid.
2. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir occasionally if possible for even flavor distribution.

Step 4: Final Seasoning

Once cooked:
1. Taste your chili and adjust seasoning with more kosher salt or black pepper if needed.
2. Serve hot with cornbread or your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

Serving your Slow Cooker Chili Recipe can elevate the dining experience. With various delicious accompaniments, you can create a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

Pair with Cornbread

• Cornbread is a classic pairing with chili. Its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture complement the spiciness of the chili.

Top with Cheese

• Shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, adds a creamy element that balances the flavors. Simply sprinkle on top before serving.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped cilantro or green onions provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of chili. Scatter them over each bowl for added color and flavor.

Serve with Avocado

• Sliced or diced avocado introduces creaminess. It also adds healthy fats, making your meal more satisfying.

Include Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream can cool down spicy flavors and add a tangy taste. It pairs well with the robust profile of the chili.

Offer Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips can be served on the side or used as a scoop for the chili. Their texture enhances every bite.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

To make your Slow Cooker Chili Recipe even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Brown the Meat Properly: Browning the ground beef or turkey enhances its flavor through caramelization, giving your chili depth.
• Use Quality Broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth for a richer base without excessive salt. This will allow you to control seasoning levels effectively.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the chili to cook longer develops flavors significantly. Aim for 8 hours on low for maximum taste.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer milder chili, reduce the amount of cayenne and red pepper flakes. Always taste and adjust accordingly.
• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans for variety. Black beans or chickpeas work well too.
• Garnish Creatively: Experiment with toppings like jalapeños, lime wedges, or feta cheese to add unique flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chili Recipe can enhance its flavors and make it a complete meal. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread – Sweet and crumbly cornbread is perfect for soaking up chili.
2. Rice – A side of fluffy rice serves as a neutral base that complements spicy flavors.
3. Grilled Vegetables – Seasoned grilled veggies add freshness and crunch alongside rich chili.
4. Salad – A light green salad provides a refreshing contrast to hearty chili.
5. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for a filling dish.
6. Coleslaw – The crispness of coleslaw adds texture and balances out spiciness.
7. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread is ideal for dipping into warm bowls of chili.
8. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with grains and cheese make an excellent savory side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few missteps when preparing a slow cooker chili. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping Browning the Meat: Failing to brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker can lead to less flavor. Always brown your ground beef or turkey first for a richer taste.
• Overlooking Seasoning: Not seasoning enough can result in bland chili. Make sure to taste and adjust spices like chili powder and cumin as you go.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can affect the final flavor. Choose good-quality broth and canned tomatoes for the best results.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking on high when low is recommended can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the suggested cooking times for perfect texture.
• Neglecting Bean Preparation: Not rinsing canned beans might add excess sodium. Always drain and rinse beans for a healthier option.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Divide into single-serving sizes for easy meal prep.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls in short bursts, stirring between, until heated through, usually about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until hot, which takes about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Slow Cooker Chili Recipe that you may find helpful.

How long does it take to cook slow cooker chili?

Cooking time varies; on low, it takes about 6-8 hours, while on high, it’s around 3-4 hours.

Can I customize my slow cooker chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables or different beans based on your preferences.

What can I serve with slow cooker chili?

Cornbread is a classic pairing, but tortilla chips or rice also complement this dish nicely.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef or turkey with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chili Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers rich flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows for many adjustments based on your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it!

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: Amelia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Chili Recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings. This easy-to-make chili is packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a satisfying meal the whole family will love. With just under twenty minutes of prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while you go about your day. The versatility of this recipe allows for various protein options like ground beef or turkey, or even beans for a vegetarian twist. Serve it hot with cornbread or your favorite toppings for a complete comfort food experience.

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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 with 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 skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until cooked through; add onion halfway through cooking until softened.
2. Mix in minced garlic and transfer to a slow cooker.
3. Combine beef broth and tomato paste; pour over the meat mixture. Add diced tomatoes, beans, and spices.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Adjust seasoning before serving hot with cornbread or toppings.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 325
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg