Hey there! I’m so excited to share my favorite crockpot chili recipe with you. It’s one of those dishes that just warms your soul, and trust me, it couldn’t be easier to whip up! I remember the first time I made it for a game night with friends; the aroma filled the house, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. This chili is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner, a casual gathering, or just need a hearty meal during a busy week. You can adjust the spices to suit your taste, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser—so let’s get cooking and create something delicious together!
Ingredients List
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
How to Prepare the Crockpot Chili Recipe
Alright, let’s dive into the steps to create this amazing crockpot chili! It’s simple and straightforward, so no need to worry about complicated techniques here. I promise, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly this comes together. First, grab a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. You want to brown the ground beef, along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Just keep stirring until the beef is cooked through and the onions are soft—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Ah, that smell is already divine!
Once everything is nicely browned, drain off any excess fat. I like to tilt the skillet and use a spoon to help remove the grease. Then, transfer your beef mixture right into the crockpot. Now it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Toss in the rinsed black beans, kidney beans, and the crushed tomatoes. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, and pour in the beef broth. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
After that, cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. If you’re home, it’s nice to give it a stir halfway through, but it’s not necessary! Just let it work its magic. When it’s done, the chili will be hot, hearty, and oh-so-delicious. Serve it up with your favorite toppings, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onions and minced garlic in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain off excess fat and transfer the mixture to the crockpot.
- Add the rinsed black beans, kidney beans, and crushed tomatoes to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, then pour in the beef broth.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy: This crockpot chili comes together with just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss.
- Hearty and Filling: With two types of beans and ground beef, this chili is packed with protein and flavor, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a game day gathering, or a potluck, this chili is always a crowd-pleaser that can easily be scaled up.
- Customizable: You can tweak the spices or add your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Want it spicier? Just toss in some jalapeños!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can throw everything in the crockpot in the morning and come home to a warm, delicious meal ready to enjoy.
- Great Leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or lunches.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your crockpot chili turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my best tips to elevate this dish and make it even more delicious:
- Spice It Up: If you love a kick, don’t hesitate to add extra chili powder or some diced jalapeños. You can even throw in a touch of cayenne pepper for that extra heat!
- Beans Galore: Feel free to mix and match beans! Pinto beans or chickpeas can add a fun twist. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well to keep the chili from getting too watery.
- Fresh Herbs: Toss in some chopped fresh cilantro or parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness. It makes a world of difference!
- Cooking Time: If you’re short on time, the high setting works wonders, but I really recommend the low setting for that deep, rich flavor. Just let it simmer away, and it’ll be worth the wait!
- Top It Off: Get creative with toppings! Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and sliced avocado take it to the next level. You can even serve it with some crunchy tortilla chips or cornbread on the side.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for a fabulous crockpot chili experience. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk nutrition! This crockpot chili is not just hearty and delicious; it also packs a good punch in the nutrition department. Here’s a rough estimate based on the ingredients we’re using:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 2g
Keep in mind, these values can vary a bit depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use and any modifications you make. But overall, this chili is a great source of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal option. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s good for you, too!
FAQ Section
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! If you want to enjoy this delicious chili without the meat, you can easily make it vegetarian. Just swap out the ground beef for 2 cups of your favorite meat substitute, like lentils, mushrooms, or even a mix of diced vegetables. You can also add some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using a quicker-cooking substitute. You’ll still get that hearty, comforting chili experience!
How can I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super simple! Just let the chili cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the fridge for about 4 days. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s heated through. The flavors will still be amazing, trust me!
What are some good toppings for the chili?
Toppings can really take your crockpot chili to the next level! Here are some of my favorites:
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melt beautifully on top.
- Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the heat.
- Diced onions: Fresh onions add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
- Sliced jalapeños: For those who love a spicy kick, sliced fresh jalapeños are perfect.
- Avocado: Creamy avocado slices or guacamole are always a hit!
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top adds a burst of freshness.
- Tortilla chips: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for an added texture and fun.
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these toppings to suit your taste! Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious leftover crockpot chili is a breeze! Once it’s cooled to room temperature, transfer it into an airtight container. I usually like to portion it out into smaller containers—this way, I can grab a quick meal whenever I need one. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 4 days, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner without any fuss!
If you want to keep it longer, go ahead and freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, and it’ll last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy that comforting chili again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
For reheating, I recommend warming it up on the stovetop over medium heat. Just give it a stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly—this way, you’ll keep all those wonderful flavors intact! If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop it in the microwave. Just transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot throughout. Trust me, every spoonful will taste just as good as when you first made it!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious crockpot chili ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to elevate your meal even more! Trust me, these suggestions will make your chili experience even more delightful.
First up, a classic cornbread is an absolute must! Its slightly sweet flavor complements the spiciness of the chili beautifully, and it’s perfect for scooping up all that hearty goodness. I love to make mine in a cast-iron skillet for that crispy edge!
If you’re in the mood for something a bit crunchier, some tortilla chips are fabulous dipped right into the chili. You can even serve them on the side with a fresh salsa or guacamole for a fun twist. The contrast in textures is just delightful!
For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chili. Just toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers. It’s fresh and refreshing, which feels great next to that warm, hearty dish.
And don’t forget about toppings! A spread of toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, sour cream, or even some pickled jalapeños can let everyone customize their bowls just the way they like it. It adds a fun interactive element to the meal!
Lastly, if you want to make it a full feast, consider serving your chili with some garlic bread or even a side of rice. The rice can soak up all that flavorful chili sauce, making every bite satisfying.
With these serving suggestions, your crockpot chili will not only be cozy and comforting but also a complete meal that everyone will rave about! Enjoy the fun and flavors!
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Crockpot Chili Recipe: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave This Comfort Food
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and hearty crockpot chili recipe that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onions and garlic.
- Drain excess fat and transfer the mixture to the crockpot.
- Add beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- This chili can be frozen for later use.
- Adjust spices to your taste preference.
- Top with cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: crockpot chili recipe, easy chili recipe, slow cooker chili
