Description

This hearty and flavorful slow cooker chili recipe combines ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices to create a comforting meal perfect for any day. Slow-cooked to tender perfection, this chili is easy to prepare and ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Seasonings and Extras

2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp oregano
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the chili from becoming greasy.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant, enhancing the base flavor of the chili.
Slow Cooker Assembly: Transfer the cooked beef, onion, and garlic mixture into your slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, oregano, black pepper, brown sugar, and chopped bell pepper (if using). Stir everything well to ensure the spices and ingredients are evenly mixed.
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the chili on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible to prevent sticking and aid flavor blending.
Adjust & Thicken: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or spices as desired. For a thicker chili consistency, remove the lid and cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.
Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or slices of avocado. Enjoy it warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner option.
Drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium content.
Adding bell pepper is optional but provides a nice sweetness and texture.
For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day.
Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.