If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that practically makes itself, this Crockpot Chili Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Bursting with rich flavors from tender ground beef, smoky spices, and a medley of beans and tomatoes, this dish simmers to perfection with minimal effort. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with irresistible aromas and delivers a satisfying bowl of warmth and spice any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Crockpot Chili Recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the savory ground beef that gives body and richness, to the variety of beans adding heartiness and texture, every element comes together beautifully. The blend of spices and tomatoes brings depth and a perfect balance of heat and flavor.

1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, juicy base; turkey can be used for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
1 onion, chopped: Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation to the chili.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a robust, earthy bite.
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture and protein.
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Contributes to a hearty, chunky consistency and color contrast.
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Brings tanginess and juiciness to every spoonful.
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste: Thickens the chili and intensifies the tomato flavor.
1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional): Adds mild heat and a fresh kick.
1 cup beef broth: Keeps the chili moist and enriches the savory taste.
2 tbsp chili powder: The star seasoning that delivers classic chili warmth and spice.
1 tsp cumin: Lends a smoky, earthy depth that’s essential for authentic chili flavor.
1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky sweetness that elevates the overall taste.
1/2 tsp oregano: Introduces a hint of herbal brightness.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds mild heat and sharpness.
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love an extra spicy punch.

How to Make Crockpot Chili Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Begin by browning your ground beef (or turkey) in a skillet over medium heat. As it cooks, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to soften and release their fragrant flavors. Once the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains, drain any excess fat to keep the chili from getting greasy. This step is where the flavor foundation is built, so take your time to let those onions and garlic get tender and aromatic.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Transfer the beef mixture into your crockpot and add the drained kidney and black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, and diced green chilies if you like a little heat. Pour in the beef broth to keep everything perfectly moist. Now it’s time to sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re going bold. Stir everything thoroughly to make sure the spices are well distributed and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Let the Chili Simmer Low and Slow

Cover the crockpot and choose your cooking time based on schedule and preference: low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The magic happens as the ingredients slowly meld and thicken into a rich, flavorful chili. If you can, give it a gentle stir occasionally to help everything cook evenly. About halfway through, take a quick taste and adjust seasonings as needed – maybe a pinch more salt or chili powder depending on your tastebuds.

Step 4: Ready to Serve

After patiently waiting, your Crockpot Chili Recipe is ready to enjoy. Serve it steaming hot, straight from the pot, and get ready for comfort in a bowl.

How to Serve Crockpot Chili Recipe

Garnishes

Toppings can transform your chili experience from good to unforgettable. Think shredded cheese melting over warm chili, dollops of cool sour cream balancing the heat, fresh jalapeño slices if you like a spicy kick, or chopped green onions adding a fresh crunch. These extras add texture and flavor layers, making each bite exciting.

Side Dishes

Nothing pairs better with hearty chili than some crunchy sides. Classic cornbread is a beloved choice, its sweetness a perfect counterpoint. Crackers or tortilla chips provide that satisfying crisp texture and are excellent for dipping. A simple green salad can also add a refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress at your next gathering? Serve your Crockpot Chili Recipe in bread bowls for a cozy, edible container. You can also turn it into a chili bar with various toppings and sides so everyone can customize their bowl. Another fun twist is using chili as a filling for nachos or baked potatoes for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This chili is fantastic for leftovers because flavors deepen overnight. Store any uneaten portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready, reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot and bubbling.

Freezing

Crockpot chili freezes beautifully, making it an excellent meal prep candidate. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your chili gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, so it warms evenly and doesn’t stick. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickened too much in storage.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this Crockpot Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a leaner chili option while still keeping it flavorful and satisfying. Just brown it as you would the beef and proceed with the recipe.

What if I want to make this chili vegetarian?

You can omit the meat and add extra beans, lentils, or even chopped vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to keep it hearty. Consider using vegetable broth and adding smoked paprika or chipotle for smoky depth.

How spicy is this Crockpot Chili Recipe?

The heat level is easily adjustable. Leaving out the diced green chilies and cayenne will give you mild warmth, while adding them amps up the spice. It’s perfect for customizing to your family’s taste.

Can I prepare this chili the night before?

Yes, and it often tastes even better the next day! Prepare it the night before, refrigerate overnight, and reheat before serving to let the flavors fully develop.

What are the best toppings for Crockpot Chili Recipe?

Classic favorites like shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped green onions, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro all bring wonderful contrasts and complement the chili’s robust flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Chili Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and bold flavors to your table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and downright delicious. Give it a try and discover how a simple slow-cooker recipe can deliver so much joy in every comforting spoonful.

Crockpot Chili Recipe

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4.1 from 83 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This hearty Crockpot Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish made with ground beef or turkey, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Perfect for busy days, it simmers slowly in the crockpot to develop deep, rich flavors that are ideal for cozy dinners. You can customize the heat level with optional green chilies and cayenne pepper, and serve it with your favorite toppings and sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Beans and Tomatoes

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional, for extra heat)

Liquids and Spices

1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter flavor)
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

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Instructions

Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness and improve texture.
Transfer to Crockpot: Move the cooked beef mixture into the crockpot to prepare for slow cooking.
Add Ingredients: Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (including their juice), tomato paste, diced green chilies (if using), and beef broth to the crockpot. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want extra heat. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Cook in Crockpot: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible to blend flavors. Around halfway through cooking, taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed to perfect the flavor.
Serve: Serve the chili hot, topped with desired toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, or chopped green onions. Complement the dish with sides like cornbread, crackers, or tortilla chips for an enjoyable texture contrast.

Notes

For a leaner chili, substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
Optional diced green chilies and cayenne pepper can be added for extra spice.
Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Stir occasionally during cooking if possible to prevent sticking and promote even flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American