When the air turns crisp and you crave a warm, filling meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, Crockpot Chili is the answer. This dish combines tender ground beef, hearty beans, and a rich tomato base infused with spices that develop deep, savory flavors as they simmer for hours. The best part? The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you with a meal that’s effortless yet packed with flavor.
This recipe is a balance of smoky spices, tangy tomatoes, and creamy beans, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights, game-day gatherings, or meal prep. Whether you top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or a slice of cornbread on the side, this chili is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this comforting classic.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a big batch of chili:
- 2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 15 oz black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 30 oz kidney beans (2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 30 oz diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies (with juice)
- 30 oz tomato sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook for 4–5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it begins to release fat and turn brown.
- Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Season the Meat
- Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir constantly for 30 seconds so the spices bloom, deepening their flavor.
Step 4: Transfer to Crockpot
- Pour the seasoned beef mixture into a 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients
- Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and tomato sauce.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 6: Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours.
- The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Topping Ideas
The beauty of chili is that it’s customizable. Here are some topping options:
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Diced avocado
- Sliced jalapeños
- Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread on the side
Tips for Success
- Use lean beef: This keeps your chili hearty without being greasy.
- Bloom your spices: Cooking them briefly in the skillet brings out their full flavor.
- Don’t skip the beans: They add creaminess, texture, and extra protein.
- Adjust thickness: If your chili is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water. Too thin? Let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
- Make it ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave until hot.
Variations to Try
- Turkey Chili: Swap beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit meat and add extra beans, corn, or diced sweet potatoes.
- Spicy Chili: Add cayenne pepper, chipotle powder, or fresh jalapeños for heat.
- White Chicken Chili: Use chicken, white beans, and a creamy broth instead of tomatoes.
FAQs
1. Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the beef and adding the spices, add all ingredients to a large pot. Simmer on low for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
2. What’s the difference between chili con carne and this chili?
Chili con carne typically uses only meat and chili peppers, while this recipe includes beans and tomato sauce for a heartier version.
3. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough (8–10 quarts). Otherwise, split into two batches.
4. How can I thicken chili if it’s too watery?
Let it simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes or stir in a spoonful of masa harina (corn flour) for authentic flavor and thickness.
5. Can I add beer for flavor?
Yes! Replace 1 cup of tomato sauce with a light beer for a deeper, malty flavor.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chili is everything you want in a comfort food dish: rich, hearty, and full of flavor with minimal effort. It’s the kind of recipe you can throw together in the morning and come home to a warm, satisfying meal at the end of the day. Whether you serve it on its own, ladled over rice, or paired with cornbread, this chili will quickly become a household favorite.
So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a big bowl of cozy goodness.