Slow Cooker Chili – Hearty, Spicy & Set-It-&-Forget-It!
A hearty, flavorful slow cooker chili made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Simmer for 6 hours to let the flavors meld, making it perfect for a cozy family meal. Customize with optional toppings like cheese or green onions for added richness.
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 (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked
- Drain excess fat, transfer beef to the slow cooker
- Add kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes with juices, and tomato sauce
- Pour in beef broth and stir to combine
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onion until translucent
- Cook minced garlic for 1 minute, then add onion and garlic to the slow cooker
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir thoroughly
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours
- Stir chili and adjust seasoning if needed
- Garnish with optional toppings before serving
Notes
Use lean ground beef for reduced fat or substitute with ground turkey/chicken
Let chili rest 5-10 minutes before serving for better flavor integration
Increase heat with extra chili powder or diced jalapenos if desired
Add liquid smoke for a deeper smoky taste
Mash some beans for a thicker consistency
Let chili rest 5-10 minutes before serving for better flavor integration
Increase heat with extra chili powder or diced jalapenos if desired
Add liquid smoke for a deeper smoky taste
Mash some beans for a thicker consistency