Embrace the warm, hearty flavors of America’s beloved chili! This slow cooker chili recipe marries the rich taste of ground beef with an array of beans and robust spices, creating an experience that’s perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends and family. With its hands-off cooking method, this dish allows you to set it and forget it, only to return to a warm and inviting meal, bursting with flavor.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Chili Recipe
There’s something profoundly comforting about a bowl of chili. You can enjoy it as a complete meal or pair it with cornbread or rice for a delightful dining experience. The magic lies in how easy it is to prepare—by browning some beef, chopping a few vegetables, and tossing everything into the slow cooker, you set yourself up for success. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, making this dish even better the next day, if there’s any left!
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Chili
To whip up a delicious pot of slow cooker chili, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering, protein-packed meal that is as nutritious as it is delicious.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Directions
The process of making slow cooker chili couldn’t be more straightforward. Follow these simple steps to craft your delicious dish:
- Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and let it brown for about 5-7 minutes. As it cooks, break up the meat with a spatula, ensuring it crumbles nicely. You want it fully cooked for flavor and safety.
- Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir them in with the meat and let everything cook together until the onions are translucent—about 3-5 minutes. The aroma of garlic and onions sizzling will be your first hint of the scrumptious dish coming together.
- After cooking, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your chili from becoming too greasy. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
- Carefully transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. This is where the magic happens!
- Now it’s time to add the star ingredients. Toss in the drained kidney beans and black beans, followed by the can of tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder and cumin, then season with salt and pepper to taste. These spices will deepen the flavor of your chili.
- Using a large wooden spoon, stir the ingredients until everything is well combined. You want all the spices to coat the beans, meat, and sauce evenly.
- Once you have everything mixed nicely, cover your slow cooker with its lid. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high and let it cook for about 4 hours. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, cook it on low for 6-8 hours.
- When the cooking time is up, your kitchen will be filled with a divine aroma, signaling that your chili is ready to be devoured.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili
When it comes to serving your delightful slow cooker chili, the ideas are endless. After ladling your chili into bowls, consider these delicious toppings to enhance each serving:
- Shredded cheese creates a melty, gooey layer that adds flavor.
- A dollop of sour cream offers a creamy contrast, balancing out the spices.
- Freshly chopped green onions provide a lovely crunch and a tasty brightness.
Feel free to serve your chili alongside warm cornbread or tortilla chips—both make for fantastic accompaniments that pair wonderfully with the hearty and spicy flavors of your dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even set up a chili bar with a variety of toppings, allowing everyone to customize their portion.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Chili
- Brown the meat: Always take the extra step to brown the ground beef beforehand. This adds depth of flavor to your chili that you won’t get from simply adding raw meat to the slow cooker.
- Spice it up: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you enjoy more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Add some vegetables: For a boost of nutrients and additional flavor, chop and add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to your mixture. These ingredients blend well and enrich the chili.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker chili, leave the lid off for the last hour of cooking to allow some moisture to evaporate. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
- Let it rest: If you can wait, let your chili sit for an hour after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld even further, making each bowl even more enjoyable.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chili
Proper storage is key to prolonging the life of your delicious chili:
- Cool it down: Once your chili has cooled to room temperature, carefully transfer it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate: Your chili can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Freeze for later: If you want to save some for future meals, freeze your leftover chili. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and don’t forget to label them with the date! Frozen chili can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation of Slow Cooker Chili
Explore different flavors and textures with these fun variations of slow cooker chili:
- Vegetarian Chili: Replace the ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. Use vegetable broth instead of tomato sauce for a lighter meal.
- Spicy Chili: Add more heat with diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or even some chili peppers. This variation is perfect for those who like to spice things up!
- Chili with Sweet Potatoes: Diced sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness and nutrients. They pair beautifully with the spices and beans.
- White Chicken Chili: Substitute the beef with shredded chicken and replace the beans with white varieties like cannellini or navy beans.
- Chili Mac: For a comforting twist, mix in some cooked macaroni towards the end of cooking. You’ll have a delightful one-pot meal!
FAQ
What is the best way to prepare Slow Cooker Chili?
To prepare slow cooker chili, brown your ground beef with onions and garlic, drain excess fat, and combine it all in the slow cooker with your beans, tomato sauce, and spices. Allow it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
How can I thicken my Slow Cooker Chili?
To thicken your slow cooker chili, you can leave the lid off for the last hour of cooking, allowing moisture to evaporate. Additionally, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to create a thicker texture.
Can I add other vegetables to Slow Cooker Chili?
Absolutely! Consider adding bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for a nutritious boost. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook thoroughly.
How do I store leftover Slow Cooker Chili?
Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool before transferring to prevent condensation in the container.
Is Slow Cooker Chili healthy?
Yes! Chili can be a healthy choice, especially when made with lean ground beef and plenty of beans. It offers a good balance of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Adjusting the ingredients allows you to tailor it to your dietary needs.
Enjoy making your slow cooker chili! It’s perfect for those busy days when you need something hearty and delicious waiting for you at the end of the day.
Slow Cooker Chili
Ingredients
Meat and Veggies
- 1 pound ground beef Lean ground beef is preferred.
- 1 can kidney beans, drained Can substitute with pinto beans if desired.
- 1 can black beans, drained Rinse before adding for better flavor.
- 1 can tomato sauce Use your favorite brand.
- 1 medium onion, diced Diced finely for quicker cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor.
Spices and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chili powder Adjust based on spice preference.
- 1 teaspoon cumin Adds depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste Add according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Add the drained kidney beans, black beans, and tomato sauce to the slow cooker.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
- Let it sit for 1 hour after cooking for enhanced flavor if possible.
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