This Crockpot Chili is a warm bowl of comfort with beans, tomatoes, and spices simmering all day. It’s packed with flavors and super easy to make!
I love coming home to a cooked meal after a busy day. The best part? It tastes even better the next day! Just grab some cornbread for dipping, and you’re set! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives chili its hearty base. You can swap it for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier or vegetarian version.
Kidney Beans: These add texture and protein. If you don’t have kidneys, black beans or pinto beans work just as well. Feel free to mix different beans too!
Onion and Garlic: They add depth to the flavor. Use yellow or white onions as they are sweeter. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder is a quick substitute—just use 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika are essential for that chili kick. If you’re out of chili powder, a mix of paprika and cayenne pepper can give you a nice heat. Add more or less to fit your taste!
How Do I Make Sure the Chili is Full of Flavor?
To ensure your chili is bursting with flavor, it’s crucial to brown the meat properly. This creates a lovely depth of flavor. Here’s how:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef and onions.
- Cook until the beef changes color and the onions become soft. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Don’t skip the garlic! Add it right after the meat and onions are perfectly cooked.
- Mix everything into the crockpot along with the rest of the ingredients. Stir well to mix those tasty spices!
Cooking the chili slowly in the crockpot allows all those flavors to deeply meld together. Make sure to taste it before serving and adjust seasoning as needed—everybody’s palate is different!
How to Make Delicious Crockpot Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, sour cream, fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty crockpot chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and then cooks for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, it’s perfect for a busy day—just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Beef and Onion:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Stir occasionally until the meat is browned and the onions are soft and translucent—about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet before moving on to the next step.
2. Adding Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant. This will really enhance the flavor of your chili!
3. Moving to the Crockpot:
Carefully transfer the beef and onion mixture into the crockpot. This is where all the magic happens, so get it all in there!
4. Adding the Rest of the Ingredients:
To the crockpot, add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (don’t forget the juice!), tomato paste, and beef broth. This combination will form the rich base of your chili.
5. Spice it Up:
Mix in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Let it Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors will meld together!
7. Finishing Touches:
When your chili is done cooking, give it a good stir. Taste it and adjust any seasonings as needed, adding a bit more salt or spices if you like.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chili hot, topped with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful crockpot chili!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Just be aware that it may result in a slightly different flavor and texture.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like your chili on the spicier side, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use spicy chili powder or add hot sauce to taste before serving!
Can I Prep This Chili the Night Before?
Yes, you can prep your ingredients the night before. Simply chop the onions and garlic, and mix the spices together. Store everything in the fridge, then combine and cook in the crockpot the next day!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure it’s fully cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe container!
