Chili is one of those dishes that brings people together, nothing says comfort food quite like a bowl of Easy Crockpot Chili. In my own busy life, I often turn to this hearty recipe, especially when I need a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Using a slow cooker not only makes the process effortless but also lets the flavors meld beautifully, creating a delicious depth that you wouldn’t expect from such simple ingredients. Whether it’s for a family weeknight dinner or a game day gathering, this chili never fails to satisfy.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to try out this Easy Crockpot Chili. First off, it’s a true crowd-pleaser—perfect for everyone from picky kids to adventurous adults. This recipe is not just easy on the wallet, using inexpensive ingredients like canned beans and ground beef, but it also delivers robust flavors that seem far more complex than the prep time suggests.
Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of chili wafting through your kitchen—it’s like a warm hug from the inside! It’s the ideal dish for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or even holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s easily customizable according to taste, making it great for anyone’s palate.
“I made this crockpot chili for my family last week, and they couldn’t stop raving about it. Easy to make and the flavors were just incredible!” – A Happy Home Cook
Step-by-step overview
Making Easy Crockpot Chili is a straightforward process, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a low-maintenance meal. In just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to enjoy a rich and hearty chili that’s sure to become a staple in your household. Gather your ingredients first, and then we’ll dive into the simple cooking steps.
What you’ll need
To whip up this delicious chili, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or even a meat substitute if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option!
Directions to follow
- Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s cooked through, drain any excess fat.
- In your crockpot, combine the browned beef with the drained kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together well to ensure the spices and seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
- When it’s done, serve it hot, and don’t forget to add your favorite toppings for that extra flair!
Best ways to enjoy it
This chili can easily stand on its own, but why not elevate your meal? Serve it in bowls topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or fresh cilantro. For a complete meal, pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips. You could even create a chili bar with a variety of toppings for fun gatherings!
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers from this Easy Crockpot Chili can be a lifesaver. Store any unused portion in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure the chili reaches a safe temperature of 165°F to enjoy safely.
Pro chef tips
Want to make your chili even better? Here are some handy tips to consider:
- For added depth, sauté your vegetables before adding them to the crockpot.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices. You can add more chili powder for heat or even a splash of hot sauce.
- Try adding corn or diced bell peppers for a sweet crunch!
Creative twists
This recipe is quite flexible, so feel free to experiment with flavors. Want a smoky touch? Add a few dashes of liquid smoke or some diced chipotle peppers. Prefer a vegetarian option? Replace the meat with lentils or keep it entirely plant-based with lots of veggies and beans. The possibilities are endless!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare this chili?
Prep time usually takes about 15 minutes, depending on how quickly you can chop your veggies and brown the beef.
Can I use different beans?
Absolutely! You can use any beans you like. Black beans and pinto beans are great substitutes.
Can I freeze the chili?
Yes! Just store it in an airtight container and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
By following this recipe, you will not only create a tasty dish that warms you up but also spark joy at your meal table. Happy cooking!
PrintEasy Crockpot Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili that brings comfort and joy, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, then drain any excess fat.
- In your crockpot, combine the browned beef with the drained kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together well to ensure the spices and seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings.
Notes
For added depth, sauté your vegetables before adding them to the crockpot. Adjust spices to taste for more heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
