The Ultimate Crockpot Chili Recipe

The Ultimate Crockpot Chili is the comfort food you’ve been craving. Slow-cooked to perfection, this hearty dish is rich with bold flavors, tender ground beef, and a savory blend of beans and spices.

Perfect for cozy nights, game days, or any time you need a fuss-free, satisfying meal. This chili requires minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Crockpot or slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients Overview

• Ground Beef: Adds protein and a rich, meaty base to the chili.
• Beans: A mix of kidney beans and black beans for texture and nutrition.
• Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes and tomato paste provide the savory tomato base.
• Spices: A mix of chili powder, cumin, and paprika for the perfect chili flavor.
• Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers, and garlic enhance the flavor profile.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 1/2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Combine in Crockpot: Transfer the beef and vegetables to the crockpot. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, black beans, kidney beans, broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Stir and Set: Mix everything thoroughly. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Layer flavors by browning the beef, sautéing the aromatics, and allowing the spices to meld together during the slow cooking process.

Recipe Tips

• For a thicker chili, reduce the broth by 1/2 cup or let the chili simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Add a touch of sweetness with a tablespoon of brown sugar if you like your chili balanced.
• For extra spice, include diced jalapeños or additional cayenne pepper.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Serve with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice. Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or fresh cilantro.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans and vegetables.

Can I freeze leftover chili?
Absolutely! Allow the chili to cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I add other vegetables?
Feel free to add diced zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve in bowls with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, or sliced jalapeños. Pair with warm crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.

This Crockpot Chili is a guaranteed hit, whether you’re serving a crowd or meal-prepping for the week. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to customize to your taste!

Ultimate Crockpot Chili

The Ultimate Crockpot Chili is the comfort food you’ve been craving.

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Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 medium onion diced
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1 green bell pepper diced
• 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 6 oz can tomato paste
• 1 15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 15 oz can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 1/2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
• Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Combine in Crockpot: Transfer the beef and vegetables to the crockpot. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, black beans, kidney beans, broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
• Stir and Set: Mix everything thoroughly. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.