Crockpot Chili
This hearty crockpot chili is simple, flavorful, and perfect for everything from weekly meal prep to game day gatherings or a cozy evening in.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 6-quart crockpot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Chili Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 pounds ground beef or ground turkey
- 2 15-ounce cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 15-ounce cans diced tomatoes
- 1 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Jalapeño slices
- Tortilla chips or cornbread
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté diced onion until translucent (3–4 minutes), then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Tip:
- Don’t skip this step—it builds the flavor base.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
- Add ground beef to skillet. Cook until browned, breaking apart. Drain excess grease.
- Tip:
- Use lean beef for a hearty but not greasy chili.
Step 3: Load the Crockpot
- Transfer meat, onion, and garlic to the crockpot. Add beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth.
- Tip:
- Layer meat on the bottom for even cooking.
Step 4: Add Seasoning
- Sprinkle in all spices, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Tip:
- Adjust spice levels to taste before serving.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Stir occasionally.
- Tip:
- Longer cook time develops deeper flavors.
Step 6: Taste and Serve
- Stir, taste, adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and add toppings.
- Tip:
- Add lime juice before serving to brighten the flavor.
Notes
Make it vegetarian by replacing meat with extra beans or lentils.
Freeze in individual portions for future meals.
Next-day leftovers taste even better!