Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Introduction

The classic slow cooker chili recipe from Crockpots and Flipflops is the epitome of comfort food made simple. With its rich flavors, hearty texture, and a straightforward preparation process, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or simply satisfying a craving for something warm and delicious. This slow cooker chili brings together the perfect combination of beans, beef, and spices, allowing the magic to happen as it cooks effortlessly throughout the day.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

– Ground beef – 2 pounds
– Onion – 1, diced
– Garlic cloves – 3, minced
– Canned diced tomatoes – 2 (14.5-ounce cans)
– Tomato sauce – 1 (15-ounce can)
– Canned kidney beans – 2 (15-ounce cans, drained and rinsed)
– Canned pinto beans – 1 (15-ounce can, drained and rinsed)
– Chili powder – 3 tablespoons
– Ground cumin – 1 tablespoon
– Smoked paprika – 1 tablespoon
– Salt – 1 teaspoon
– Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
– Water or beef stock – 1 cup

Prep Time

This recipe doesn’t require much effort to prepare, making it even more appealing for home cooks. To get started, you’ll simply need to chop your onion, mince the garlic, and gather all your other ingredients. The prep time is approximately 10 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 6–8 hours on low, or 4 hours on high
Total Time: About 10 minutes of prep time + cooking time
Yield: This recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for family dinners or group meals.

Add this classic slow cooker chili recipe to your rotation for easy, flavorful meals! It’s versatile, easy to customize with toppings, and promises to deliver bold, heartwarming flavors every time.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Set up your slow cooker and ensure it is clean and ready to use. If you prefer, you can use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Transfer the cooked ground beef into the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, diced onion, minced garlic, and green bell peppers.

Step 4: Season the Chili

Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper over the mixture in the slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Cook the Chili

Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Set the slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the chili will develop its classic taste.

Step 6: Stir and Taste

Once the chili has finished cooking, remove the lid and stir the chili thoroughly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.

Step 7: Serve the Chili

Ladle the chili into bowls and serve warm. You can add optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, or chopped cilantro. Serve with cornbread or crackers if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Adjusting Spice Level

If you prefer a spicier chili, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Always add spice gradually and taste as you go.

Note 2: Bean Substitutions

Feel free to substitute the kidney beans or black beans with your preferred type of beans, such as pinto beans or white beans.

Note 3: Tomato Adjustments

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of tomato sauce or add tomato paste. For a more liquid chili, add a splash of broth or water.

Note 4: Vegetarian Option

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or a plant-based meat substitute.

Note 5: Storage Tips

Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Note 6: Freezing Instructions

Chili freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cook Techniques

Sautéing the Aromatics

Before adding ground beef and vegetables to the slow cooker, sautéing the onions, garlic, and peppers in a pan with a little oil helps to build flavor. This step enhances the overall taste of the chili.

Browning the Meat

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat to develop richer and deeper flavors. It also allows you to drain excess grease before adding the meat to the slow cooker, resulting in a healthier dish.

Using Canned Beans

Rinsing and draining canned beans removes extra sodium and ensures the chili doesn’t become overly salty. It also helps to create a fresh and balanced flavor in the chili.

Layering Ingredients

Place ingredients into the slow cooker in layers. This ensures the meat, beans, and vegetables get evenly cooked and all the flavors meld together as the chili simmers.

Low and Slow Cooking

Cook the chili on low for 6-8 hours to foster rich and developed flavors. Slow heat allows the ingredients to break down and combine into a robust and hearty dish.

Thickening the Chili

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can accomplish this at the end of the cooking process by mashing some of the beans or by letting the chili simmer with the lid off for an additional 15-30 minutes.

Adding Toppings

Boost the flavor of the chili with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or tortilla chips right before serving. This adds texture and flavor variations to the dish.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef. It’s a leaner option and works just as well with the seasonings and other ingredients.

How can I make the chili spicier?

To elevate the spice level, add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the mixture. You can also use a spicier salsa or hot sauce.

Can I freeze leftover chili?

Yes, leftover chili freezes well. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Do I need to cook the beans before adding them?

If you’re using canned beans, they are already cooked and simply need to be rinsed and drained before adding. If using dried beans, they must be soaked and cooked according to package directions beforehand.

Why does my chili taste bland?

The flavors of chili often deepen over time. If it tastes bland, add more seasoning or salt and allow it to cook a bit longer to enhance the overall flavor.

Can I cook this recipe on high?

Yes, you can cook this chili on high for 3-4 hours, but cooking it on low heat for a longer period is recommended for the best flavor.

What are some good side dishes for chili?

Chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips or crackers for crunch.

Conclusion

This classic slow cooker chili is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to your table in the easiest way possible. It’s perfect for busy days, family gatherings, or simply enjoying a hearty bowl of goodness. The recipe is simple to follow and yields a rich, flavorful, and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it with cornbread, rice, or your favorite toppings, this chili is a staple recipe you’ll turn to time and time again.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Slow Cooker Taco Soup

If you love Mexican-inspired flavors, try making a slow cooker taco soup. It has similar ingredients to chili but with an added punch of taco seasoning, corn, and black beans for a fun twist.

Vegetarian Chili

For a lighter take, swap the meat for hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or eggplant, and add some quinoa for protein. This vegetarian chili is just as robust and flavorful.

Chili Mac

Combine your classic chili with cooked macaroni for a delicious one-pot chili mac. The mix of pasta and chili is a kid-friendly, comforting meal.

Chili Topped Baked Potatoes

Use your chili as a hearty topping for baked potatoes. Add shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a complete meal.

Chili-Stuffed Bell Peppers

Give stuffed peppers a new twist by filling them with this classic chili. Bake the peppers in the oven until tender and enjoy a unique dish.

Chili Nachos

Transform your chili leftovers into nachos by layering tortilla chips with chili, cheese, guacamole, and jalapenos. It’s perfect as a snack or party food.