Slow Cooker Chili Recipe: Cozy Comfort in a Bowl

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Slow cooker chili is a tasty and easy meal that’s perfect for busy days. You can toss everything in the pot in the morning and come home to a warm, hearty dinner. The key to great slow cooker chili is browning the meat and veggies before adding them to the crockpot.

This recipe uses ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices to create a rich flavor. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili powder. Top your chili with cheese, sour cream, or green onions for extra yumminess.

Exact Ingredients (Plus Possible Substitutes)

Here’s what you’ll need for a tasty slow cooker chili:

• 2 lbs ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 1 diced onion
• 1 diced bell pepper (any color)
• 3 cloves minced garlic

For the spices, gather:

• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

You can swap the beef for chicken or plant-based crumbles if you prefer. No kidney beans? Try black or pinto beans instead.

For extra flavor, add these optional ingredients:

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp coriander

Don’t have all the spices? A pre-mixed chili seasoning packet works too. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, just chop them up first.

Remember, you can adjust the amounts to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Instructions

Start by browning ground beef in a skillet. Drain the fat and transfer the meat to your slow cooker.

Add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the slow cooker. These veggies will give your chili great flavor.

Now it’s time for the beans. Pour in kidney beans and pinto beans. You can use canned beans for convenience.

Next, add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. These form the base of your chili.

Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and oregano. These spices are key for that classic chili taste.

Pour in some beef broth to help everything cook together nicely.

Give everything a good stir to mix it all up.

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for 6-8 hours.

Your chili will be ready when it’s thick and the flavors have melded. Taste and add salt if needed.

Serve your chili hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Here are some handy tips to make your slow cooker chili even better:

• Brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker. This adds more flavor to your chili.

• Don’t open the lid while cooking. Each time you do, it adds about 20 minutes to the cooking time.

• Add spices at the start of cooking. This allows flavors to develop fully.

Try these tricks to take your chili to the next level:

• Stir in a spoonful of cocoa powder for depth. • Add a splash of beer for extra richness. • Toss in a cinnamon stick for a hint of warmth.

To store your chili:

1. Let it cool completely.
2. Put it in airtight containers.
3. Keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
4. Freeze for up to 3 months.

When reheating, add a bit of water or broth to thin it out if needed. Your chili may taste even better the next day as the flavors have more time to mix!