The Best Crockpot Chili Recipe for Cozy Winter Nights

Chili nights become magical when you master this delectable crockpot chili recipe that promises deep, rich flavors simmering slowly throughout the day.

Hearty beans, tender meat, and robust spices combine in a comforting blend that warms you from the inside out.

Every home cook dreams of a foolproof meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.

This recipe brings together classic ingredients with a simple technique that ensures a delicious outcome every single time.

The slow cooker works its culinary magic, melding together each ingredient into a harmonious, soul-satisfying dish.

Packed with protein and bursting with southwestern-inspired seasonings, this chili stands ready to become your new go-to comfort food.

One taste, and you’ll understand why this recipe has become a beloved staple in kitchens everywhere.

Slow Cooker Chili for Game Day Gatherings

• Slow-Cook Simplicity: Dump all ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic, making meal preparation a breeze with minimal hands-on cooking.
• Customize Your Comfort: Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips to create a personalized chili experience that suits every taste.
• Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: This hearty, protein-packed meal satisfies everyone from kids to adults, making it perfect for family dinners, game days, or potluck gatherings.
• Nutrition Powerhouse: Packed with protein from ground beef and beans, plus vitamins from tomatoes and spices, this chili delivers a wholesome and filling meal in one pot.

Shopping for the Best Crockpot Chili Batch

• Ground Beef: A hearty protein that provides the foundational flavor for the chili.

• Kidney Beans, Black Beans: These beans add texture, protein, and a rich, earthy taste to the chili.

• Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce: These ingredients create a robust, tangy base that helps bind the chili together and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Onions, Garlic: These ingredients provide a deep, savory foundation and aromatic depth to the chili.
• Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: These spices and seasonings create a complex and warming flavor that defines the classic chili taste.

How to Make a Hearty Crockpot Chili Bowl

Step 1: Sizzle and Prep Beef Mixture

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

Toss in ground beef, allowing it to brown beautifully.

Break up the meat with a wooden spoon while cooking.

• Chopped onions
• Minced garlic

Stir and cook until beef is completely browned and onions become translucent.

Step 2: Transfer Meaty Goodness

Carefully move the entire beef mixture from the skillet into the crockpot, making sure to scrape all the flavorful bits.

Step 3: Bean and Tomato Explosion

• Kidney beans
• Black beans
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce

Step 4: Spice Up the Magic

• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Gently stir all ingredients to ensure perfect distribution of spices.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the crockpot and let it work its magic.

Cook on low setting for 6-8 hours or on high setting for 3-4 hours.

The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will mingle and intensify.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the rich, hearty chili into bowls.

Top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or crispy tortilla strips.

Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious meal!

Tricks for Thick and Rich Crockpot Chili

• Brown ground beef thoroughly before adding to crockpot to develop deeper, richer taste and create delicious caramelization.
• Mix different types of beans like kidney and black beans for more texture, nutrition, and complex flavor profile.
• Adjust chili powder and pepper amounts to personalize heat intensity, making it mild or spicy according to preference.
• Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or fresh cilantro to add extra layers of flavor and freshness.
• Prepare chili in advance and refrigerate or freeze, allowing flavors to meld and making meal prep easier for busy days.

Flavorful Ways to Mix Up Crockpot Chili

• Vegetarian Chili: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a protein-packed meatless version.
• Turkey Chili Swap: Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter, lower-fat alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and use gluten-free spices to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Southwest Chili: Add diced green chilies, jalapeños, and extra cayenne pepper for a fiery kick that enhances the traditional recipe.

Serving Crockpot Chili for Potlucks and Parties

• Comfort Corner: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream on top to create a creamy, tangy layer that complements the rich chili flavors.
• Game Day Delight: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips or cornbread for a hearty meal that'll score big with friends and family during sports gatherings.
• Meal Prepper's Dream: Pack individual portions in meal prep containers for easy lunches during the week, keeping the chili fresh and delicious for quick reheating.
• Veggie Boost: Add a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the protein-packed chili and create a more nutritionally complete meal.

Crockpot Chili – Leftover Storage Solutions

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Pour chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents.
• Transfer desired portion to a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
• Pour chili into a saucepan. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or broth to prevent sticking and maintain consistency.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of meat in this chili?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even use a mix of ground meats for variety.

• Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or add extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

• How can I make the chili spicier?

Add more chili powder, include diced jalapeños, or stir in some hot sauce to increase the heat level according to your preference.

• Can I freeze this chili for later?

Definitely! This chili freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep or future quick meals.

Crockpot Chili Recipe

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4.7 from 37 reviews

• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Crockpot Chili emerges as a comforting classic, blending robust flavors and tender meats in one effortless dish. Slow-simmered spices and rich ingredients create a soul-warming meal that will delight hungry diners seeking pure culinary satisfaction.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)

Beans and Tomato Base:

• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Vegetables and Seasonings:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup beef broth (or substitute with chicken broth or water)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

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Instructions

1. Sauté ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic in a hot skillet until meat is thoroughly browned and crumbled, approximately 7-10 minutes.
2. Drain excess fat from the meat mixture and transfer contents to the slow cooker.
3. Pour in kidney beans and black beans, ensuring even distribution throughout the meat.
4. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to create a rich, robust base for the chili.
5. Sprinkle chili powder, ground cumin, sweet paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper across the surface, gently mixing to incorporate seasonings.
6. Cover crockpot and set to low temperature, allowing flavors to meld and develop for 6-7 hours.
7. Once cooking time concludes, verify meat’s tenderness and sauce’s consistency.
8. Ladle steaming chili into serving bowls and garnish with preferred toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
9. Serve immediately while piping hot, accompanied by cornbread or tortilla chips for additional texture.

Notes

• Select lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier chili base.
• Sauté onions and garlic before adding to the crockpot for deeper, richer flavor development.
• Drain and rinse canned beans to lower sodium content and remove extra starch.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting chili powder or adding diced jalapeños for spice lovers.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 230 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 430 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg