⁠Slow Cooker Chili with Beef and Beans

Introduction

Slow Cooker Chili with Beef and Beans is a hearty, comforting, and flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners, game days, or family gatherings. This chili combines tender ground beef, hearty beans, and a rich tomato-based sauce, slowly simmered in a crockpot to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

What sets this chili apart is its depth of flavor achieved through slow cooking, which brings out the richness of the beef, the smokiness of the spices, and the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying, making it a classic staple in any home cook’s repertoire.

Why I Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: Slow cooking allows the spices, beef, and beans to fully develop their flavors.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
• Easy to Make: Minimal prep and the slow cooker does all the work.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike; you can adjust the spice level for everyone’s preference.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, game days, or potlucks.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and flavor. The slow cooking process enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, creating a warm, hearty, and satisfying chili that’s ideal for any occasion. Once you taste this chili, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for cold evenings, family meals, and entertaining guests.

Time, Servings & Nutrition

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6–8 hours
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories (approx): 350 kcal per serving

Course: Main Course / Soup
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp oregano
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices, tortilla chips

Cooking Directions

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer beef and vegetables to the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained beans, beef broth, and spices (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper). Stir to combine.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste chili and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve: Ladle chili into bowls and top with desired toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
2. Sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until tender.
3. Transfer beef and vegetables to the slow cooker.
4. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, beef broth, and spices. Stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low 6–8 hours or high 3–4 hours.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. Serve hot with toppings.

🍴 How to Serve

• Serve as a main dish in bowls, topped with cheese, sour cream, green onions, or avocado.
• Pair with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple salad.
• Can be served over rice or pasta for a hearty variation.

Recipe Tips

• Brown the beef first to enhance flavor and texture.
• Use a mix of beans for variety and texture.
• Adjust spice level with cayenne pepper or hot sauce if desired.
• Stir occasionally during cooking if possible for even flavor distribution.
• Leftover chili tastes even better the next day after flavors meld further.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace beef with extra beans, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or cayenne pepper for heat.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or add chopped cooked bacon.
• Chunky Veggie Chili: Add zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
• Slow Cooker Freezer Meal: Assemble all ingredients in a freezer bag (except beans), freeze, and cook later.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (4–6 qt recommended)
• Skillet for browning beef and sautéing vegetables
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well for a leaner version.

Q2: Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day. Assemble and cook or store leftovers after cooking.

Q3: Can I add more beans?
Absolutely; add extra beans for a heartier, protein-packed chili.

Q4: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, brown the beef using the sauté function and cook on high pressure for 15–20 minutes.

Q5: Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, add more chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce for spicier chili.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chili with Beef and Beans is a hearty, comforting, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, flavorful beans, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic spices, it’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and perfect for cold nights, family meals, or game day gatherings. This chili is a must-try for anyone seeking warmth, flavor, and simplicity in a single slow-cooked bowl.