If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal, this Crockpot Chili Recipe will absolutely win you over. It’s one of those set-it-and-forget-it dinners that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and your bowl with deeply satisfying flavor. Between the savory browned beef, vibrant veggies, hearty beans, and bold spices, every spoonful offers a delicious balance of texture and taste. The best part? This recipe is effortlessly easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. Get ready for lots of requests for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crockpot Chili Recipe is how each simple ingredient shines—there’s no need for anything fancy here! From meaty protein to classic beans and just the right mix of spices, every element adds its own heartiness, color, or touch of heat.
- Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey): Gives the chili a rich, hearty base—feel free to use turkey for a lighter version!
- Small Onion (diced): Infuses the chili with subtle sweetness and aroma.
- Green Bell Pepper (diced): Adds crunch, color, and a mild peppery flavor.
- Garlic (minced): Elevates the depth and warmth of your chili with every bite.
- Kidney Beans (15 oz can, drained and rinsed): Bring a creamy texture and hearty bite.
- Black Beans (15 oz can, drained and rinsed): Add extra protein and gorgeous contrast.
- Diced Tomatoes (15 oz can): Offer tangy freshness and help build the chili’s saucy base.
- Tomato Sauce (15 oz can): Binds all the flavors into a rich, comforting consistency.
- Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the chili beautifully.
- Chili Powder (1 tablespoon): Gives that classic, warming kick.
- Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds a smoky, earthy undertone that ties the chili together.
- Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Offers subtle smokiness and an irresistible aroma.
- Dried Oregano (½ teaspoon): Cuts through the richness for a balanced herby lift.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for making all the flavors pop!
How to Make Crockpot Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey), breaking it apart as it cooks. You want those little browned bits for extra flavor, so don’t rush this step! Once the meat’s fully browned, drain off any excess grease to keep the chili’s texture just right.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Toss in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic with the meat. Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the veggies start to soften and smell irresistible. This extra attention coaxes out their sweetness and ensures no raw veggie taste sneaks into the final Crockpot Chili Recipe.
Step 3: Transfer to the Crockpot
Spoon your cooked meat and veggie mix right into the crockpot. This is where all the flavors will meld and develop during the slow simmer. Don’t forget a quick scrape of the pan to get every last bit of flavor!
Step 4: Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Spices
Top the mixture with kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Sprinkle on the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, plus salt and pepper. Give everything a hearty stir—the spices should touch every ingredient for the best-tasting Crockpot Chili Recipe.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Pop the lid on and cook your chili on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. This low and slow method coaxes out deep flavors and marries everything into a thick, rich, and utterly comforting meal.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give your chili a taste and tweak the seasoning if needed. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or a little extra chili powder for extra warmth. Then grab some bowls—your Crockpot Chili Recipe is ready for the spotlight!
How to Serve Crockpot Chili Recipe
Garnishes
A great chili gets even better with the right toppers! Try a scatter of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, a dollop of sour cream, bright green onions, or plenty of crunchy crushed tortilla chips. For those who love bold flavors, sliced jalapeños or a handful of fresh cilantro take the Crockpot Chili Recipe to the next level.
Side Dishes
Serve this chili alongside warm cornbread, fluffy white rice, baked potatoes, or even a crisp green salad. Each pairing brings something different—cornbread soaks up every drop, rice adds comfort, while salad gives a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting a gathering? Set up a chili bar with bowls of toppings and let everyone customize their own. You can also ladle Crockpot Chili Recipe into bread bowls or use it to top baked sweet potatoes for a fun, unexpected twist. It’s a showstopper at potlucks and game day parties alike!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer your chili to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making reheated servings extra delicious.
Freezing
This Crockpot Chili Recipe freezes beautifully! Ladle cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (lay flat for easy stacking), leaving a little space for expansion. It will keep for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat chili gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. For individual servings, the microwave works well too. Add a splash of broth or water if the chili thickened up too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I make this Crockpot Chili Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef (or turkey) for a plant-based meat substitute or add extra beans and veggies like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms for a robust meatless version.
Is it okay to use different kinds of beans?
Of course! Mix and match any beans your heart desires—pinto, cannellini, or even navy beans all work beautifully in this Crockpot Chili Recipe. Variety adds extra flavor and texture.
How spicy is this chili?
As written, the recipe is mild and kid-friendly, but you can easily turn up the heat! Stir in a diced jalapeño, chipotle pepper, or a pinch of cayenne powder to spice things up to your liking.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
You sure can, as long as your slow cooker is large enough to handle the volume. This Crockpot Chili Recipe is a superstar for feeding a crowd—perfect for potlucks, tailgates, and family gatherings.
What’s the best way to thicken chili if it’s too soupy?
If your chili is thinner than you’d like, just let it cook uncovered for the last 20–30 minutes. Alternatively, mash a spoonful of beans into the pot or stir in a little extra tomato paste for a thicker, heartier chili.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll give this Crockpot Chili Recipe a try! It’s a guaranteed comfort food win that’s as simple as it is delicious, no matter the season. Round up your favorite toppings, share it with good company, and watch those bowls disappear.
Print
Crockpot Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (on low)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty Crockpot Chili Recipe is a comforting and delicious meal that is perfect for busy days. Made with ground beef, beans, and a flavorful blend of spices, this chili is a crowd-pleaser and easy to prepare in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Bean and Tomato Mixture:
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Saute Veggies: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the beef and vegetables to a crockpot. Add the beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and seasonings. Stir well to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
- Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper
- Leftovers freeze well
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