Slow Cooker Chili is the heartwarming dish that brings everyone together! Imagine a bubbling pot filled with tender beans, vibrant bell peppers, and hearty ground turkey, all simmered to perfection in a rich, savory broth. With a delightful blend of spices that dance on your palate, this chili is perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends. Top it off with creamy avocado or a sprinkle of cheese for an extra touch of indulgence. Get ready to savor every spoonful of this deliciously comforting meal!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Slow Cooker Chili
Equipment
- 1 Skillet For browning the meat.
- 1 Slow Cooker For cooking the chili.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound Ground Beef Opt for lean for a healthier option.
Beans
- 1 can Kidney Beans Adds protein and fiber; canned for convenience.
- 1 can Black Beans Enhances texture and flavor; rinse before adding.
Vegetables
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes Use fire-roasted for extra flavor.
- 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and depth; sauté for a richer taste.
- 2 cloves Garlic Fresh is best, but powder works too.
- 1 medium Bell Pepper Adds color and crunch; any color works well.
Spices
- 2 tablespoons Chili Powder The star spice; adjust to your heat preference.
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Adds warmth and earthiness; a little goes a long way.
- 1 teaspoon Oregano Complements the chili flavor; dried is convenient.
- 2 cups Beef Broth Enhances the overall flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version.
- to taste teaspoon Salt Essential for bringing out flavors.
- to taste teaspoon Black Pepper Adds a bit of heat; freshly ground is best.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing vegetables; can substitute with any cooking oil.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect 1 pound of ground beef or turkey, 1 can of black beans, 1 can of kidney beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Let’s get those flavors ready to mingle!
Step 3: Brown the Meat
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Transfer the browned meat to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Stir It Up
- Give everything a good stir to combine all those tasty ingredients. It’s like a party in a pot!
Step 6: Set the Slow Cooker
- Cover and set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let the magic happen!
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
- About 30 minutes before serving, taste your chili. Add more spices if you like it spicier!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Once it’s done, ladle the chili into bowls. Top with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Dig in and enjoy your cozy meal!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chili
- It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that saves you time.
- Rich, hearty flavors that warm your soul on chilly days.
- Customizable with your favorite beans and veggies.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better!
- Healthy and satisfying, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Chili |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 6 hours |
| Total Time: | 6 hours 15 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-free, Dairy-free |
| Serves: | 6-8 |
| Best Served: | With cornbread or rice |
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chili
- Ground Beef – a hearty base for your chili; opt for lean for a healthier option.
- Kidney Beans – adds protein and fiber; canned for convenience.
- Black Beans – enhances texture and flavor; rinse before adding.
- Diced Tomatoes – provides moisture and acidity; use fire-roasted for extra flavor.
- Onion – adds sweetness and depth; sauté for a richer taste.
- Garlic – infuses aromatic flavor; fresh is best, but powder works too.
- Bell Pepper – adds color and crunch; any color works well.
- Chili Powder – the star spice; adjust to your heat preference.
- Cumin – adds warmth and earthiness; a little goes a long way.
- Oregano – complements the chili flavor; dried is convenient.
- Beef Broth – enhances the overall flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version.
- Salt – essential for bringing out flavors; add to taste.
- Black Pepper – adds a bit of heat; freshly ground is best.
- Olive Oil – for sautéing vegetables; can substitute with any cooking oil.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Slow Cooker Chili
Get ready to whip up a delicious pot of Slow Cooker Chili that will warm your heart and fill your belly!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 1 pound of ground beef or turkey, 1 can of black beans, 1 can of kidney beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Let’s get those flavors ready to mingle!
Step 3: Brown the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned meat to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Stir It Up
Give everything a good stir to combine all those tasty ingredients. It’s like a party in a pot!
Step 6: Set the Slow Cooker
Cover and set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let the magic happen!
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
About 30 minutes before serving, taste your chili. Add more spices if you like it spicier!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once it’s done, ladle the chili into bowls. Top with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Dig in and enjoy your cozy meal!
Pro Tips for Making the Slow Cooker Chili
•Use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of flavor.
•Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
•Try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
•Let it simmer longer for deeper flavors; overnight is ideal!
•Serve with toppings like avocado or cheese for extra comfort.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili
- Top with shredded cheese for a melty finish.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of flavor.
- Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
- Pair with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
- Offer avocado slices or guacamole on the side for extra richness.
- For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Make it a meal with a side salad for a refreshing balance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
•Allow chili to cool to room temperature before storing.
•Transfer to an airtight container.
•Label with the date and contents.
•Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
•Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
•Leave some space for expansion when sealing.
•Label with the date and contents.
•Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
•Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
•Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
•Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
•Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in my Slow Cooker Chili?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for beef. It will still provide a delicious flavor and a hearty texture. Just make sure to season it well to enhance the taste.
How long should I cook my Slow Cooker Chili?
For best results, cook your chili on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish.
Can I add beans to my Slow Cooker Chili?
Yes, adding beans is a fantastic way to boost the protein and fiber content of your chili. You can use kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans—just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding.
What toppings do you recommend for Slow Cooker Chili?
Some popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and fresh cilantro. Feel free to get creative with your toppings to make your chili even more enjoyable!
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