Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a big pot of slow cooker chili simmering away while you go about your day! This recipe is my go-to for those chilly nights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I’ve made chili countless times, and trust me, this one is packed with flavor and super easy to whip up. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic! The aroma that fills your home is just the cherry on top. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how comforting it is to enjoy a warm bowl of homemade chili. Perfect for cozy gatherings or just a night in!

Ingredients List

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 cup bell pepper, chopped

How to Prepare Instructions

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes, until it’s nice and brown. This step really enhances the flavor of your chili!
Once the beef is browned, transfer it to your slow cooker. Don’t worry if there’s some little bits left in the skillet; those add more flavor!
Now, it’s time to add all the other ingredients to the slow cooker: the drained kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and bell pepper.
Stir everything together until well combined. It should look colorful and hearty – trust me, it’s going to be delicious!
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re in a pinch, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours, but low and slow really brings out the flavors.
When it’s done cooking, give it a gentle stir and serve hot with your favorite toppings. I love adding shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super simple: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you!
Flavor-packed: The combination of spices and slow cooking makes every bite rich and delicious.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—it’s even better the next day!
Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Great for gatherings: Serve it at parties or family dinners, and watch it disappear!
Comfort food at its best: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of chili to make you feel cozy and satisfied.
Leftovers are a breeze: Store it in the fridge or freezer, and reheat for a quick meal anytime.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your slow cooker chili turns out absolutely amazing! Here are my best tips to get it just right:

Brown the beef well: Don’t rush this step! Browning the meat adds so much flavor, so take your time to get it nice and caramelized.
Adjust the spice: If you like your chili with a kick, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. You can also toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat!
Use quality beans: I always prefer using canned beans because they’re convenient, but if you have the time, soaking and cooking dried beans from scratch can add a deeper flavor. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of beans here.
Let it cook low and slow: Cooking on low for the full 6-8 hours really allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you can, resist the urge to open the lid too often; every peek lets the heat escape!
Toppings make it special: Don’t skimp on toppings! A sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or some diced avocado can elevate your chili to the next level!
Serve with a side: Pair your chili with cornbread or tortilla chips for a comforting meal. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
Make it ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day! Feel free to make it in advance and let the flavors develop overnight in the fridge.

With these tips, you’ll be a chili master in no time! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Variations

One of the best things about this slow cooker chili recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily mix things up to suit your taste or just to keep things interesting. Here are some fun variations to try:

Different Beans: Swap out the kidney and black beans for pinto beans, cannellini beans, or even some chickpeas. Each type brings its own unique flavor and texture!
Spice it Up: Want more heat? Add diced jalapeños, a spoonful of chipotle in adobo, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes! You can also experiment with different chili powders like ancho or smoked chili for a smoky twist.
Extra Veggies: Sneak in some additional vegetables like zucchini, corn, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients!
Meat Variations: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded beef instead of ground beef. Each option gives you a different flavor profile!
Make it Vegetarian: For a hearty vegetarian version, skip the meat and add more beans or lentils. You can also include some crumbled tofu for added protein!
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end of cooking for a burst of fresh flavor. You can also add a bay leaf while it cooks for added depth.
Sweet and Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of sweetness, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey. It balances out the spices beautifully!

These variations allow you to get creative and make this chili your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combo!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about how to keep your delicious slow cooker chili fresh for those busy days when you need a quick meal! Proper storage is key to enjoying those flavors later on. Here’s how I do it:

Storing Leftovers: Once your chili has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’s best to store it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up!
Freezing: If you want to save it for a longer time, you can freeze the chili! Just pour it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Now, onto reheating! You want to maintain that wonderful flavor and texture:

Stovetop: For the best results, I recommend reheating on the stovetop. Just pour your chili into a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Transfer your chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot. Just be careful, it can splatter!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor every last bite of your slow cooker chili. Enjoy your cozy meals!

Nutritional Information

Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these values are approximate. But here’s a handy breakdown of what you can expect from a serving of this delicious slow cooker chili:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 300
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 50mg

This hearty chili not only warms you up but also packs a good dose of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal option. Enjoy your cozy bowl with the peace of mind that it’s both delicious and nourishing!

FAQ Section

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic alternative if you want a leaner option. Just treat it the same way as ground beef by browning it before adding it to the slow cooker.

How can I make this chili spicier?
If you love some heat, you can add more chili powder or even toss in some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers! A sprinkle of cayenne pepper can also do the trick. Just adjust to your taste!

What if I don’t have kidney beans?
No problem at all! You can easily substitute kidney beans with any other type of beans you have on hand, like pinto beans, black beans, or even chickpeas. They all work beautifully in this slow cooker chili recipe!

How long should I cook the chili?
The best part about this slow cooker chili is the flexibility! Cooking it on low for 6-8 hours will give you the richest flavors. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours, but trust me, low and slow really makes a difference!

Can I prepare this chili in advance?
Yes! This chili is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. The flavors will meld even more overnight, making it even tastier when you reheat it!

Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes! This slow cooker chili recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients, which most canned beans and spices are. Always check the labels just to be safe!

Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative and add chopped zucchini, corn, or even some spinach for extra nutrition. Just toss them in the slow cooker with the other ingredients!

How do I store leftovers?
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3-4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. It reheats beautifully!

Slow Cooker Chili Recipe for Cozy Nights Ahead

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty slow cooker chili recipe that is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Instructions

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Add all other ingredients to the slow cooker.
Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder if desired.
Top with cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 300
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: slow cooker chili recipe, chili, slow cooker, easy chili

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