If you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal that practically cooks itself, this Slow Cooker Chili is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that you can throw together in no time, and then let your slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun game day gathering, this chili is sure to please everyone at the table.

What makes this dish even more special is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it on its own, or pair it with cornbread or rice for a heartier meal. Plus, the savory aroma wafting through your home will make everyone eager to dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
Family-friendly: Everyone loves a warm bowl of chili; it’s perfect for picky eaters!
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and enjoy stress-free dinners.
Flavorful and hearty: The blend of spices and beans creates a rich, satisfying dish.
Healthy option: Packed with protein and fiber, this chili keeps you full without weighing you down.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful Slow Cooker Chili. You might already have most of these in your pantry!

For the Chili

1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced any color
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup beef or vegetable broth

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have or what flavors you love. Here are some fun ideas:

Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even lentils for a vegetarian twist.
Add more veggies: Toss in chopped zucchini, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Spice it up: If you like heat, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to kick things up a notch.
Change up the beans: Feel free to mix in pinto beans or chickpeas for different textures.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey). Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon for about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as browning adds depth of flavor to your chili. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat before transferring the meat to your slow cooker!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

To the slow cooker, add the kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and broth. Stir everything together well so all those flavors meld beautifully during cooking.

Step 3: Set It and Forget It

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours (or high for 3 hours). The longer cooking time allows all the ingredients to marry perfectly. Your patience will be rewarded with an incredibly delicious bowl of chili!

Step 4: Final Touches

About 30 minutes before serving, taste your chili and adjust seasonings if necessary. This is where you can make it just right for your palate!

Step 5: Serve Up

Once cooked to perfection, ladle the chili into bowls. Feel free to garnish with optional toppings like fresh cilantro or avocado if desired. Enjoy every hearty bite of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chili

Making chili in a slow cooker can be a breeze, and with these simple tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

Brown the meat first: Cooking the ground beef or turkey in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor through caramelization. This extra step can really add depth to your chili.
Mix up the beans: Feel free to swap in your favorite beans! Using different types like pinto or cannellini can create interesting flavors and textures while still keeping the dish hearty.
Let it rest: If you have time, let your chili sit for 30 minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, giving you a more robust taste.
Spice it up: Adjust the chili powder according to your heat preference. If you like it spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Make it ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for an easy meal later in the week. Just reheat and enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili

Serving slow cooker chili is as fun as making it! Whether it’s a family dinner or a game day gathering, presenting your chili with flair can enhance the dining experience.

Garnishes

Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the rich flavors of chili.
Sour cream or yogurt alternative: A dollop will provide creaminess and help balance out the spices.
Shredded cheese alternative: Sprinkle on some dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious chili. It adds a delightful contrast in texture.
Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make for an excellent companion, perfect for dipping into your hearty bowl of chili.
Rice or quinoa: Serving chili over rice or quinoa transforms it into a complete meal, boosting its nutritional value while satisfying hunger.
Steamed vegetables: A light side of steamed broccoli or green beans offers freshness and balances out the richness of the chili.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your slow cooker chili will not only taste amazing but also look delightful on any table. Enjoy every warm and comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This slow cooker chili is not only a delightful dish for dinner, but it’s also perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Allow chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

Portion the cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

For stovetop reheating, place chili in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.
For microwave reheating, transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
Always check that the chili is heated thoroughly before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Chili:

Can I use other types of beans in my Slow Cooker Chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans. Chickpeas or pinto beans would work wonderfully and add great flavor.

How can I make my Slow Cooker Chili spicier?

To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also top your chili with hot sauce before serving for an extra kick!

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chili?

This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You could also offer toppings like avocado, cilantro, or cheese alternatives for added flavor.

Can I make Slow Cooker Chili vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground meat and add more beans or vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting slow cooker chili as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a gathering around the table filled with warmth and laughter. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or celebrating with friends on game day, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with delicious aromas!

Slow Cooker Chili

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Author: Amelia
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6
Category: Main
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

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Description

If you’re in search of an easy, hearty meal that fills the room with comforting aromas, look no further than this Slow Cooker Chili. This recipe is designed for busy lives—just toss in the ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work! Perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings, this chili is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you enjoy it on its own or served alongside cornbread or rice, every bite is packed with rich flavors from spices and beans.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup beef or vegetable broth

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Instructions

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and transfer to a slow cooker.
Add kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and broth into the slow cooker. Stir well.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
Ladle into bowls and enjoy with your favorite garnishes like cilantro or avocado.