Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Chili Recipe – Easy Crockpot Comfort
Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Chili Recipe – Easy Crockpot Comfort
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience! This slow cooker beef chili recipe is the perfect solution for busy days when you crave a hearty, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just 15 minutes of prep time and your trusty crockpot doing all the heavy lifting, you’ll have a rich, flavorful chili that tastes like it simmered for hours.
The magic of this recipe lies in the slow cooking process, which allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. The beef becomes incredibly tender, the tomatoes break down into a luscious sauce, and the spices infuse every bite with warmth and depth. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (85/15 blend recommended)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and all spices. Pour in the beef broth and stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible, but the beauty of this recipe is its set-it-and-forget-it nature!
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. If the chili is too thick, add a bit more beef broth. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Expert Tips
- Meat Selection: Choose ground beef with a bit of fat (85/15) for maximum flavor and tenderness
- Spice Control: Start with less cayenne and add more after cooking if you prefer more heat
- Bean Options: Feel free to substitute pinto beans or add corn for extra texture
- Make Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop
- Freezing: Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months
FAQ Section
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or additional beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How long does slow cooker chili keep?
Refrigerated in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I cook this recipe faster?
While the slow cooking process develops the best flavor, you can cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.
What toppings work best?
Classic toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and fresh cilantro. Cornbread makes an excellent side!
Ultimate Slow Cooker Beef Chili Recipe – Easy Crockpot Comfort
Ingredients
Method
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and all spices. Pour in the beef broth and stir everything together until well combined.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible, but the beauty of this recipe is its set-it-and-forget-it nature!
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. If the chili is too thick, add a bit more beef broth. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
