There’s something incredibly comforting about a simmering pot of chili, especially when it’s made in a slow cooker. Classic slow cooker chili is a beloved recipe that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight, a game day gathering, or a cozy family dinner, this chili combines spices, hearty beans, and savory meat to create a dish that satisfies. In my experience, there’s nothing quite like coming home to the rich aroma of chili wafting through the house, promising a comforting meal that’s been cooking all day.
Why you’ll love this dish
This classic slow cooker chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s perfect for anyone searching for something that is delicious, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare. You can throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning, let it simmer, and come home to a perfectly cooked dinner. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for weeknight dinners, tailgating events, or even as a filling for burritos or nachos. And let’s not forget, it’s a dish that even picky eaters tend to love!
"This chili is a staple in our home! It’s so easy and always a hit with the family, especially on game days." — a satisfied home chef.
The cooking process explained
Making this classic slow cooker chili is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic to build foundation flavors. Once everything is combined in the slow cooker, it simmers for hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together. The process takes a few minutes to set up, but the payoff is well worth the effort!
What you’ll need
Gather these key ingredients to whip up this delicious chili:
- 2 lb lean Ground Beef (90/10 or 93/7)
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 15 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 30 oz kidney beans (two 15oz cans, drained and rinsed)
- 30 oz diced tomatoes (with their juice)
- 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis (with their juice)
- 30 oz tomato sauce
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can try ground turkey for a healthier option or omit the meat for a fantastic vegetarian version.
Directions to follow
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the ground beef until it releases fat, about 4-5 minutes. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and continue to sauté until it’s tender, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and seasonings: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Transfer the mixture to a 6 Qt slow cooker.
- In the slow cooker, add the drained and rinsed beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving classic slow cooker chili, the possibilities are endless! You can enjoy it as is, or take it up a notch with toppings. Try adding shredded cheese, sliced green onions, sour cream, or avocado for creamy, crunchy textures. For sides, cornbread pairs beautifully with chili, or you can serve it over rice for a heartier meal.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will keep for up to 4 days. If you’d like to store it for longer, consider freezing it in individual portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure that it reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165°F to keep it safe to eat.
Extra advice
To ensure your chili comes out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Don’t skip the browning of the beef; it enhances the flavor immensely.
- Taste your chili during cooking and adjust the spices according to your preference—everyone has a different tolerance for heat!
- For a touch of sweetness, you can add a small amount of brown sugar, or if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of beer during cooking can deepen the flavors.
Creative twists
Chili is incredibly customizable! Consider trying black beans instead of kidney beans, or add some chopped bell peppers for a pop of color. For a southwestern twist, incorporate corn or use smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. You can also make it vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Total prep time is about 15 minutes, plus the slow cooker time of 3-8 hours.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth to maintain the flavor.
How long can I store leftover chili?
Leftover chili can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I serve alongside this chili?
Cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad make great accompaniments!
Preparing classic slow cooker chili not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas, but also provides a hearty meal that the whole family can enjoy. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it, and happy cooking!
Print
Classic Slow Cooker Chili
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting classic slow cooker chili with spices, hearty beans, and savory meat, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 lb lean Ground Beef (90/10 or 93/7)
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 15 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 30 oz kidney beans (two 15oz cans, drained and rinsed)
- 30 oz diced tomatoes (with their juice)
- 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis (with their juice)
- 30 oz tomato sauce
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the ground beef until it releases fat, about 4-5 minutes. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and continue to sauté until it’s tender, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and seasonings: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Transfer the mixture to a 6 Qt slow cooker.
- In the slow cooker, add the drained and rinsed beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Consider toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American