If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that practically cooks itself and brings a burst of bold flavors to your table, you’re in for a treat with this Delicious Crockpot Ground Turkey Chili Recipe. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy a warm, satisfying dish that balances the lean protein of ground turkey with vibrant veggies, smoky spices, and a rich tomato base—all slow-simmered to perfection. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a casual gathering, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that wraps you in cozy goodness with every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the secret to nailing this tasty chili. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor, adding vibrant colors, and creating a perfect texture to make this dish irresistible.
- Olive oil: Used to brown the turkey, adding subtle richness and depth.
- Ground turkey: A lean protein base that keeps the chili light yet hearty.
- Onion (1.5 large, diced): Adds sweetness and pungency that soften during cooking.
- Red and yellow peppers: These bring a pop of color and a mild, sweet crunch.
- Tomato sauce (30 oz): Forms the smooth, tangy body of the chili.
- Diced tomatoes (30 oz): Introduces chunks of juicy texture to complement the sauce.
- Black beans (28 oz, rinsed and drained): A hearty legume that adds creaminess and fiber.
- Kidney beans (28 oz): Provides a meaty texture with earthier notes.
- Jalapenos (16 oz): Delivers the signature chili heat and a touch of smoky spice.
- Corn (1 cup): Sweet kernels that bring a subtle crunch and balance out the spice.
- Chili powder (3 tbsp): The star seasoning that anchors the chili’s warm, complex flavor.
- Cumin (1 tbsp): Adds an earthy, slightly nutty aroma that pairs perfectly with chili.
- Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Infuses a gentle smokiness that elevates the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing every ingredient’s natural flavor.
How to Make Delicious Crockpot Ground Turkey Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Turkey
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon until nicely browned and cooked through. This step builds a hearty foundation of flavor and texture before everything simmers together in the crockpot.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While your turkey browns, dice the onions and chop the red and yellow peppers. These veggies add sweetness and complexity that mellow beautifully during the long slow cook ahead. The dual peppers also bring vibrant color, making your chili as visually inviting as it tastes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer the browned turkey to the crockpot along with the diced onions, peppers, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, jalapenos, and corn. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine evenly so the flavors meld perfectly.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Set your crockpot to low and let the magic happen over the next four hours. This slow cooking time allows the turkey to absorb the spices, the beans to soften further, and all those chili flavors to deepen into a rich, soulful dish you’ll want seconds of.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Once cooked, give your chili a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—maybe a pinch more chili powder or salt. This is the fun part where you tailor the flavor just the way you like it, making this Delicious Crockpot Ground Turkey Chili Recipe uniquely yours.
How to Serve Delicious Crockpot Ground Turkey Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Step up your chili game with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. Each topping adds a fresh, creamy, or tangy contrast to the warm, spiced chili, making every bite delightfully layered.
Side Dishes
Serve your chili with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or even a crisp green salad. These sides complement the chili’s hearty texture while adding variety and balance to the meal, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this chili over baked sweet potatoes or atop a bed of fluffy rice. You can even turn it into a chili-stuffed baked pepper for a colorful, flavorful presentation that will wow everyone at your dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Delicious Crockpot Ground Turkey Chili Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its vibrant flavors and reheat portions easily for quick meals during the week.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Freeze your chili in freezer-safe containers in individual or family-sized portions. It freezes exceptionally well and can be kept for up to three months without losing that signature flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the chili gently on the stovetop or microwave until steaming hot, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it feels too thick after refrigeration or freezing to bring back that perfect chili consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef will make the chili richer and more traditional in flavor. Adjust cooking times slightly to make sure the beef is fully browned before adding to the crockpot.
How spicy is this chili?
The jalapenos and chili powder give it a nice, moderate heat that can be adjusted by adding fewer jalapenos or choosing mild chili powder if you prefer less spice.
Do I need to soak the beans before cooking?
Nope! Since this recipe uses canned beans, they’re already cooked and just need to be rinsed and drained before adding, making your prep quick and easy.
Can I make this chili on the stovetop?
Yes! After browning the turkey and sautéing the veggies, combine everything in a large pot. Let it simmer gently for at least an hour, stirring occasionally until thickened and flavors marry well.
What can I substitute for jalapenos?
If you want less heat, substitute jalapenos with poblano peppers or omit them altogether. You can always add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes later to control the spice level perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Delicious Crockpot Ground Turkey Chili Recipe is a staple you’ll return to again and again, whether for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. It’s easy to prepare, nourishing, and packed with flavor that makes it truly special. I encourage you to give it a try and watch how it becomes a beloved part of your dinner rotation.
Print
Delicious Crockpot Ground Turkey Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Delicious Crockpot Ground Turkey Chili is a hearty, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with lean ground turkey, vibrant peppers, beans, and a blend of warming spices, this chili is easy to prepare and slow-cooked to perfection, delivering a rich and satisfying taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1.5 large onions, diced
- 1 red pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 yellow pepper, seeded and chopped
- 16 oz jalapenos, chopped
- 1 cup corn
Canned Goods
- 30 oz tomato sauce
- 30 oz diced tomatoes
- 28 oz black beans, rinsed and drained
- 28 oz kidney beans, rinsed and drained
Spices and Seasonings
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the onions; seed and chop the red and yellow peppers; rinse and drain the black and kidney beans; chop the jalapenos; and measure out the corn and spices.
- Sauté the Turkey and Vegetables: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Add diced onions, red and yellow peppers, and jalapenos. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the turkey is fully cooked.
- Combine in Crockpot: Transfer the cooked turkey mixture to the slow cooker. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook the Chili: Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours or until the flavors meld together and the chili thickens to your liking.
- Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices if needed before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Optional toppings can include shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
Notes
- You can reduce the heat by using fewer jalapenos or removing seeds before chopping.
- For a thicker chili, cook uncovered during the last 30 minutes of slow cooking.
- This chili freezes well; store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Consider serving with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
