Ultimate Crockpot Chili

There’s nothing quite like the heartwarming, soul-satisfying aroma of chili bubbling away in a crockpot on a chilly day. This recipe has a special place in my heart—it’s not just a meal; it’s a memory-laden comfort food that reminds me of cozy family gatherings and the casual get-togethers with friends. Imagine that wonderful moment when you first scoop into a steaming bowl of chili, and the richness of flavors engulfs you. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or prepping for game night, this Ultimate Crockpot Chili is your perfect sidekick.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Why should you try this chili? Well, for starters, it’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dish. Throw all the ingredients in the crockpot, and let it do its magic while you go about your day. The blend of ground beef and hearty beans packs a protein punch, while the spices awaken your taste buds and add just the right kick.

What makes this chili truly special? It’s the balance of flavors—you get the savory warmth from the beef, a rich tang from tomatoes, and that satisfying bite from the beans. Plus, this chili is incredibly versatile! Use it as the foundation for nachos, stuff it in baked potatoes, or simply enjoy it by itself with your favorite toppings. It’s a versatile delight that fits right into your lifestyle, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself.

Let’s clear something up, too. You can whip this up in either beef or turkey! It’s all about personal preference. So check your pantry, gather your ingredients, and prepare for an experience that’s as much about community as it is about flavor.

Gather these ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey): This is your protein base. I often use ground turkey for a leaner option, but beef brings that classic flavor to the chili. If you’re really looking to shake things up, you can try ground chicken or even a meat substitute for a veggie-packed variation.

• 1 diced onion: Onion brings the umami. Sautéing it with the garlic (more on that soon) softens its sharpness, creating a sweet, aromatic base.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is where the magic begins. Its heartiness pairs beautifully with the other ingredients and elevates the overall aroma and flavor profile. Don’t skimp here; freshly minced is always best!

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: These juicy beauties add freshness and acidity. If you can find fire-roasted diced tomatoes, they’ll bring an extra depth of flavor that’s deliciously smoky.

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Beans are the backbone of any great chili! Kidney beans provide that earthy flavor and lovely texture. You can also swap in pinto beans if you prefer.

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: These lend a creamy texture and a unique flavor. You can mix up the bean situation—white beans are great, too!

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: This thickens the chili and adds another layer of tomato goodness.

• 2 cups beef broth: This is your liquid gold, creating that cozy soupiness we’re all after. Vegetable broth works well for a lighter version.

• 2 tablespoons chili powder: The star of the show! Adjust to taste; if you like heat, go for a little extra.

• 1 teaspoon cumin: It adds depth, that slightly smoky, warm flavor. If you’re spice-curious, toss in some smoked paprika for a twist!

• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season well! It brings everything together beautifully.

• Optional toppings: Here’s where you can get creative! Think shredded cheese, tangy sour cream, or even fresh green onions for that crunch.

The cooking process explained

Ready to cook? Let’s get hands-on!

1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) with the diced onion and minced garlic. This step is key for developing flavor. Stir until the meat is nice and brown, and the onions are translucent. It should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat—you want it to be hearty, not greasy.

2. Mix it Up: Grab your crockpot! Transfer that browned meat mixture right in. Just like that, we’re on our way to flavor town.

3. Add the Good Stuff: Now, stir in those diced tomatoes, the kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Don’t forget the spices! Toss in the chili powder, cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to incorporate everything.

4. Set and Forget: Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Yes, that’s it! Let it simmer and meld together. Here’s my pro tip: if you can, give it a stir halfway through to really blend those flavors!

5. Serve Up: When it’s done (and oh, what a fragrant journey it will have been), scoop it out into bowls and layer on your favorite toppings.

Best way to enjoy it

Now that your chili is ready, how do you serve this glorious dish? Immediately, of course! It’s best enjoyed warm on a chilly evening.

Consider these serving suggestions: Top your chili with a heap of shredded cheese that melts beautifully, a dollop of cooling sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for an added crunch. Feeling adventurous? Add diced avocado or even some jalapeños for an extra kick!

Pair it with crispy tortilla chips for dipping or serve it alongside some crusty bread for dipping and soaking up all that chili goodness.

Storage and reheating tips

Let’s talk about those delicious leftovers, shall we? First things first—let the chili cool completely before storing. You can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

If you want to extend that chili love, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers (leave some headspace for expansion) and stash it in the freezer. It will last for about 3-4 months without losing its charm.

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through, and don’t hesitate to add a splash of broth if it’s thickened too much.

Pro chef tips

Here are a few extra nuggets of wisdom that I’ve gathered over the years:

• Spice it Up: If you want to kick your chili game up a notch, toast your spices (chili powder, cumin) in the skillet before adding the meat. This unleashes their flavors and takes your chili to next-level delicious.

• Make it Your Own: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Add corn, bell peppers, or even some diced jalapeños right into the crockpot.

• Vegetarian or Vegan Option: To make a vegetarian-friendly version, skip the meat and double up on beans. Or, consider using lentils for a hearty alternative.

• Quality Ingredients Matter: Always opt for low-sodium broth and canned goods with no added sugars when possible. It enhances the natural flavors!

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few enticing variations you might want to try:

• Southwestern Twist: Add diced green chiles and corn for a festive pop of flavor.

• Spicy Chipotle: Mix in some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smokier, spicier kick.

• Taco Night Chili: Swap out some of the beans for taco meat or add in a few spoonfuls of taco seasoning for a fun take on flavors.

• Chili Mac: Stir in some cooked elbow macaroni just before serving for a comforting chili mac experience!

Ingredients list

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

How to prepare it

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the browned meat mixture to the crockpot.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.

Your questions answered

What’s the prep time? This chili takes about 15-20 minutes to prep. The rest is all hands-off cooking!

Can I make this ahead? Absolutely! Making it ahead enhances the flavors, so it’s perfect for meal prep.

Is it spicy? It’s fairly mild as written, but you can adjust the chili powder to your heat preference!

Can I freeze this chili? Yes! Just cool it completely and store it in airtight containers for up to four months.

What do I serve with chili? Think hearty sides! Cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad work beautifully.

Chili isn’t just a dish; it’s an invitation to gather with friends, to share warmth, and to break bread. This Ultimate Crockpot Chili is your canvas; let your creativity flow! I can’t wait for you to experience it, to make it your own—embrace the magic of cooking and the joy it brings. So go on, get that crockpot going, and let the flavors mingle and dance. Happy cooking, friend!

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Ultimate Crockpot Chili

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time Cook Time Total Time 28 hrs

Cooking Temp: low  C Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 15 Calories: 350

Best Season: Fall

Description

This Ultimate Crockpot Chili is a comforting dish that you can easily prepare by throwing all the ingredients in a crockpot. It's a flavorful meal perfect for any chilly day, full of protein and spices that will awaken your taste buds.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (You can use ground chicken or a meat substitute for a veggie-packed variation.)
• 1 diced onion (Brings umami flavor.)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (Freshly minced is best.)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (Fire-roasted adds extra smoky flavor.)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (Can substitute with pinto beans.)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (White beans can also be used.)
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce (Thickens the chili.)
• 2 cups beef broth (Vegetable broth works well for a lighter version.)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder (Adjust to taste.)
• 1 teaspoon cumin (Adds depth, consider smoked paprika for a twist.)
• to taste salt and pepper (Important for seasoning.)
• Optional toppings (Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions.)

Instructions

Cooking Steps

1. Brown the Meat

   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) with the diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is brown and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
   Mark as complete

2. Mix it Up

   Transfer the browned meat mixture to the crockpot.
   Mark as complete

3. Add the Good Stuff

   Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, and stir well.
   Mark as complete

4. Set and Forget

   Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir halfway through if possible.
   Mark as complete

5. Serve Up

   Scoop into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy warm!
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 350kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 20g31%

Saturated Fat 8g40%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 75mg25%

Sodium 1000mg42%

Potassium 800mg23%

Total Carbohydrate 30g10%

Dietary Fiber 10g40%

Sugars 5g

Protein 25g50%

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Vitamin A 500 IU

Vitamin C 15 mg

Calcium 80 mg

Iron 3 mg

Niacin 6 mg

Vitamin B6 0.5 mg

Vitamin B12 2 mcg

Zinc 5 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: chili, crockpot, comfort food, easy recipe, family recipe