Crock Pot Chili

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crock Pot Chili is an easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal that delivers big flavor. It’s customizable to your taste, whether you prefer it spicy, mild, or with additional toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado. The long cooking time allows all the ingredients to blend into a rich, savory, and comforting dish. Whether it’s a cold winter night or a casual gathering, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that requires very little prep time, making it the perfect meal for busy days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter version)

• 1 packet chili seasoning mix (or use homemade chili spices)

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup frozen corn (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) along with the chopped onion and garlic until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

2. Combine ingredients in the Crock Pot: Transfer the cooked beef, onions, and garlic to the Crock Pot. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili seasoning, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

3. Cook the chili: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally, if possible, to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. If you’re adding corn, toss it in about 30 minutes before the chili is done cooking.

4. Serve: Once the chili is cooked and the flavors have melded together, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or avocado.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6-8 people. Prep time is around 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, making it an ideal “set it and forget it” meal.

Variations

• Spicy Chili: Add diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give your chili a spicy kick.

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and use extra beans, such as pinto beans, garbanzo beans, or additional black beans. Add in extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more texture.

• Beef : for an extra layer of flavor. Brown it with the ground beef before adding it to the Crock Pot.

• Sweet Chili: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of maple syrup for a hint of sweetness to balance the heat.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover Crock Pot Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. It’s perfect for meal prep or lunches. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or broth to thin it out if needed. You can also freeze chili for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chili without meat?

Yes! To make this chili vegetarian, simply replace the meat with extra beans or vegetables. You can also add some tofu or plant-based protein if you’d like a little extra texture.

2. Can I use canned chili beans instead of kidney and black beans?

Absolutely! You can use any type of beans you like. Canned chili beans, pinto beans, or even a mix of beans will work well in this recipe.

3. How can I make this chili spicier?

To add some heat, you can add chopped jalapeños, a teaspoon of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. Taste as you go to achieve the desired level of spiciness.

4. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken is a great lean alternative to beef. The flavor will be lighter, but it will still taste delicious with the same spices and toppings.

5. How do I thicken the chili?

If you like a thicker chili, you can mash a portion of the beans with a fork before adding them to the pot. Alternatively, you can simmer the chili uncovered for the last 30 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

6. Can I cook this chili on the stovetop instead of in the Crock Pot?

Yes, you can cook this chili on the stovetop. After browning the meat, add the remaining ingredients to a large pot, bring to a simmer, and cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

7. Can I add more vegetables to this chili?

Yes! Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn are great additions. Just chop them up and add them along with the other ingredients in the Crock Pot. If you’re adding something like bell peppers, it can be cooked right in the chili, while frozen corn can be added toward the end.

8. Can I freeze Crock Pot Chili?

Yes, this chili freezes very well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the microwave.

9. How do I make the chili less salty?

If the chili tastes too salty, try adding a bit of sugar to balance the flavors. You can also increase the amount of broth and let it simmer longer to dilute the saltiness.

10. What can I serve with Crock Pot Chili?

Crock Pot Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, a side salad, or over a bed of rice. For a lighter side, serve it with a simple vegetable side dish like roasted Brussels sprouts or a cucumber salad.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Chili is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. With tender meat, beans, and spices simmered together, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping for the week. This hearty chili is filling and customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your preferences. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of chili that’s sure to be a crowd favorite.