Slow-Cooker Chili
A hearty and flavorful slow-cooker chili that's perfect for busy weeknights and game day. It's easy to prepare and budget-friendly, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1.5-2 lbs ground beef or ground turkey Substitute plant-based crumbles for vegetarian
Vegetables
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced (optional)
Canned Goods
- 2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cans (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed Or use 1 can if you prefer fewer beans
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for depth)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5-1 tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- to taste salt and black pepper
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or a small drizzle of maple syrup Balances acidity
Liquids
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste For richer body
Other
- Olive oil for browning (if browning) Optional step
Instructions
Preparation
- Brown the meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil. Brown the ground beef or turkey until no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat. (Skip this step if you prefer to add raw meat directly to the crockpot.)
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, soften the diced onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Transfer to crockpot: Add the browned meat and sautéed aromatics to the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, drained beans, broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, brown sugar, and cayenne.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Finish and adjust: Uncover 20–30 minutes before serving to thicken if needed. Check seasoning and add salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar to brighten flavors.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and top as desired.
Notes
Browning the meat and briefly sautéing onion/garlic builds extra flavor but is optional if you’re short on time. Use low-sodium canned goods to better control salt.