Slow Cooker Chili Recipe
Slow cooker chili has always been a go-to comfort food for me, especially on those chilly nights when you crave something hearty and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that warms both the body and soul, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy meals at home. From its rich blend of spices to the tender meat and beans, this recipe offers a deliciously simple way to feed a crowd without breaking a sweat. Plus, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you kick back and relax.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
You’ll adore this slow cooker chili for many reasons. First off, it’s super easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on cooking time, which is a time-saver on busy weeknights. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also completely versatile; whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this dish can be tailored to please everyone at the table.
Consider this glowing review from one of our fans:
“This chili has become a staple in our household! It’s rich, flavorful, and the slow cooker does all the work. The kids love it, and we’re always left with plenty of leftovers!”
The Cooking Process Explained
Making this chili is a breeze. You start by sautéing the aromatic ingredients, then combine everything in the slow cooker and let it simmer to perfection. Here’s how it goes down:
- Sauté the onions and garlic for that aromatic flavor base.
- Brown your choice of ground beef or turkey and drain the excess fat.
- Mix it all with a combination of beans, tomatoes, spices, and chopped bell peppers in the slow cooker.
- Set it on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 hours), and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients
Gather these items to get started on your glorious chili adventure:
- Ground beef (or turkey)
- Canned tomatoes (diced or crushed)
- Kidney beans (or your favorite beans)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Bell peppers
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Oil for sautéing
Substitutions:
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, ground turkey is an excellent swap. You could also mix in black beans or garbanzo beans for different textures.
Directions to Follow
- In a skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté the onions and garlic until they are golden and aromatic, around 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, roughly 5 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker. Then add the canned tomatoes, your choice of beans, chopped bell peppers, and all the spices. Give it a good stir to combine.
- Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Make sure to stir halfway through cooking to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Before serving, adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve in bowls, topped with cilantro, sour cream, or cheese, and don’t forget some cornbread or crusty bread on the side!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
There’s something special about how you present your chili. Serve it in rustic bowls and top it with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or some gooey shredded cheese for a pop of color and flavor. For a delightful twist, pair it with buttery cornbread or a slice of crusty bread that’s perfect for dipping into that flavorful broth. Consider placing some jalapeños on the side for those who enjoy a little heat!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing leftover chili is a breeze! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to prolong its life, freeze portions in individual airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label them properly to avoid any mix-ups!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For a deeper flavor, let the chili cook longer; the ingredients meld beautifully over time.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it’s key to bringing out the flavors of the onions and garlic, creating a rich base.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste; if you prefer more heat, add some cayenne or diced jalapeños.
Creative Twists
This chili recipe offers plenty of room for creativity! Try adding a splash of beer for a unique depth of flavor, or throw in some corn for sweetness and crunch. If you want to make it vegetarian, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms. You can even transform it into chili mac by stirring in some cooked pasta right before serving.
Common Questions
What’s the prep time and cooking time for this chili?
Prep time is approximately 10-15 minutes, with a cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker.
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
Yes, but be sure to soak dried beans overnight and cook them separately before adding to the chili. Canned beans save time and lower the cooking complexity.
How do I reheat leftover chili safely?
To reheat, simply warm it over medium heat on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout. Leftovers can be reheated once, so ensure you store them properly after each serving.
Slow Cooker Chili
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté the onions and garlic until golden and aromatic, around 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, roughly 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add the canned tomatoes, your choice of beans, chopped bell peppers, and all the spices. Stir well to combine.
- Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir halfway through cooking to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Before serving, adjust salt and pepper to taste.
