Print

Easy Crock Pot Chili Recipe

Easy Crock Pot Chili Recipe
Print Recipe

This Easy Crock Pot Chili Recipe is a warm, comforting slow-cooked meal packed with bold flavors, protein, and fiber. Perfect for busy nights, it combines browned ground meat, beans, vegetables, and spices simmered to perfection in your crock pot, offering a hearty and versatile dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Aromatics

  • 1 to 1.5 pounds ground beef or turkey (lean)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced

Vegetables and Beans

  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 to 2 bell peppers, chopped

Liquids and Spices

  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef or turkey until no longer pink. Remove excess fat, then add chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until soft and fragrant. This builds the essential flavor base for the chili.
  2. Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot: Transfer the sautéed meat, onions, and garlic into the crock pot. Add crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chopped bell peppers, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors.
  3. Slow Cook to Perfection: Set the crock pot to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and the chili to become rich and hearty.
  4. Final Taste Test and Adjustments: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. Personalize it to your preference.

Notes

  • Brown meat properly: Browning adds depth of flavor that slow cooking alone can’t achieve.
  • Use canned beans with care: Rinse thoroughly to reduce excess sodium and maintain clean flavors.
  • Don’t skip spices: Fresh spices work best; consider adding herbs like oregano or smoked paprika for extra complexity.
  • Layer flavors: Add acidic ingredients early and fresh herbs toward the end to preserve brightness.
  • Control heat: Start mild and add heat with hot sauce at the table for customization.

Nutrition

Keywords: crock pot chili, slow cooker chili, easy chili recipe, ground beef chili, family friendly chili, hearty chili, comforting meal

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/easy-crock-pot-chili-recipe/