When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Slow Cooker Beef Chili to warm your soul. This hearty dish is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Did you know that chili has roots dating back to the 19th century in the American Southwest? It’s a dish that has evolved over time, and each region boasts its own unique twist. What makes this particular recipe stand out is its rich blend of spices and tender beef that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy all the robust flavors without putting in a lot of effort.
What truly makes this Slow Cooker Beef Chili special is how it brings friends and family together. Just like my famous Easy Vegetarian Chili — a delightful alternative that packs just as much flavor but is meat-free — this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. So grab your slow cooker, get ready to savor each bite, and let’s dive into why you absolutely need to try this comforting dish!
What is Slow Cooker Beef Chili?
So, what’s in a name? Why is it called Slow Cooker Beef Chili and not “Fast and Erratic Chili”? Well, because cooking it low and slow leads to the most tender, flavor-infused beef imaginable! It’s the kind of dish that makes you wonder why anyone would bother with fast food when they can have a homemade marvel simmering away all day. The classic saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this chili is definitely a winning ticket! So why not prove its heartwarming prowess for yourself? Dive in, and I promise you’ll want to share this chili with everyone you know!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Chili
There are several reasons why this Slow Cooker Beef Chili will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. First and foremost, the star of the show is the beef — it’s so tender and flavorful, as it absorbs the delicious spices and ingredients simmering around it.
Secondly, making chili at home is a total game-changer for your wallet. You can whip up a big batch for a fraction of the cost of dining out or buying pre-made options from the store. Trust me, your budget will thank you!
And let’s not forget about the toppings! Whether you like a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some zesty jalapeños, the options are endless. It’s similar to a basic taco recipe but with all the warming, hearty goodness of a slow-cooked stew. So why not gather your family and friends? Try whipping up this chili together; I guarantee it will evoke plenty of “oohs” and “aahs” around the table!
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Chili
Quick Overview
Making this Slow Cooker Beef Chili is as simple as it gets! With just a bit of prep work, you can set it and forget it while it cooks away happily, allowing you to enjoy the delicious smells wafting through your home. Preparation will only take about 20 minutes, and once you plug in your slow cooker, you’ll have the perfect meal ready in 6-8 hours, depending on your chosen setting.
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Chili
To create this hearty dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs of ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) of tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or jalapeños
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the beef mixture into the slow cooker. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and all the spices (chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper). Stir until well combined.
- Slow Cook: Set your slow cooker on low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Sometimes a little extra chili powder or salt can make all the difference!
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls, topped with your choice of cheese, sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños.
What to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Chili With
This Slow Cooker Beef Chili stands strong on its own, but pairing it with a side of warm cornbread or tortilla chips can elevate your meal even further. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chili. And for a delightful drink, consider a cold glass of iced tea or a fizzy soda to wash it all down.
Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Beef Chili
To get the best out of your chili, here are some handy tips!
- Ingredient Substitutions: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option while still enjoying all the flavors.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you want to spice things up, feel free to add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to your mix. Conversely, if you’re cooking for kids, you can tone down the spices for a milder version.
- Avoid Overcooking: Depending on your slow cooker, the cooking time may vary. Check your chili about an hour before you expect it to be done, and adjust as necessary.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Did you make a big batch? No worries! This Slow Cooker Beef Chili stores beautifully. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Enjoy the cozy vibes and rich flavors of your homemade Slow Cooker Beef Chili — I promise it won’t just be a meal; it’ll become a treasured family tradition! So go ahead, grab that slow cooker and make some magic happen!
Slow Cooker Beef Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef use lean ground beef for healthier option
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
Spices
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- to taste shredded cheese optional
- to taste sour cream optional
- to taste chopped green onions optional
- to taste jalapeños optional
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
- Transfer the beef mixture into the slow cooker. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and all the spices (chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper). Stir until well combined.
Cooking
- Set your slow cooker on low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
Serving
- Ladle the chili into bowls, topped with your choice of cheese, sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños.
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