When it comes to bold, comforting meals, few dishes rival the savory satisfaction of a perfectly simmered slow cooker chili. This recipe delivers deep flavor, fork-tender beef, and a rich, spicy tomato base—all with the convenience of slow cooking. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding a crowd, or craving cozy weeknight warmth, our slow cooker chili is the definitive answer.
Ingredients for a Hearty Slow Cooker Chili
Core Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20) – for the perfect fat-to-meat balance
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
Spice Blend:
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tbsp brown sugar – balances acidity
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – deepens umami
- 1 tsp cocoa powder – enhances richness subtly
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1. Sear the Meat for Maximum Flavor
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for 3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Layer Flavors in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker. Add bell peppers, kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the top.
3. Stir Well and Cook Low and Slow
Mix all ingredients thoroughly. Set the slow cooker to:
- LOW for 6–8 hours
- HIGH for 3–4 hours
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning
About 30 minutes before serving, taste the chili. Add more salt, cayenne, or brown sugar as desired.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Slow Cooker Chili
Chili is endlessly versatile. Serve with:
- Shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Sliced green onions or chives
- Cornbread or crusty baguette
- Tortilla chips or rice for a hearty bowl
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Cooled chili can be frozen in zip-top bags or containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat or microwave in short bursts.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, ~1.5 cups)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Sodium | 760mg |
Pro Tips for Elevating Your Chili
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky edge.
- Deglaze the meat pan with a splash of beer or wine for deeper complexity.
- Don’t skip tomato paste—it concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the chili.
- Balance heat with sweetness—brown sugar or maple syrup neutralizes acidity without making it sweet.
Make It Your Own: Variations and Substitutions
| Preference | Swap or Addition |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian | Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms |
| Low-carb | Skip beans and add zucchini or spinach |
| Spicy | Add diced chipotle peppers in adobo |
| Smoky | Use smoked paprika and beef bacon |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this chili the night before?
A: Yes. It’s even better the next day after flavors meld.
Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop?
A: Absolutely. Simmer in a heavy-bottom pot for 1.5–2 hours on low.
Q: How do I thicken my chili if it’s too soupy?
A: Remove the lid for the last 30 minutes or mash a few beans into the mix.
Q: What’s the best meat alternative for vegetarian chili?
A: Use lentils, textured vegetable protein (TVP), or diced mushrooms.
Conclusion
This slow cooker chili recipe is designed for full-bodied flavor, convenient preparation, and crowd-pleasing results. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, game day feast, or batch meal prep, our chili delivers consistency and delicious depth every time. Let the slow cooker do the work while you reap the rewards of a soul-warming classic.