Crock Pot Chili Recipe
Introduction
Crock Pot Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for busy days when you want a warm, comforting meal waiting for you. This easy slow cooker recipe combines ground beef, beans, and spices for a satisfying classic chili.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (pressed)
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 can pinto beans
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
Instructions
- Step 1: Mix all the spices—chili powder, salt, dried basil, oregano, parsley, black pepper, and cumin—together in a small bowl to create the chili seasoning.
- Step 2: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, using a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain all the fat and excess liquid.
- Step 3: Transfer the browned beef to the crock pot. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, pressed garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans (with liquid), hot sauce, and the chili seasoning. Stir everything to combine well.
- Step 4: Cook on low heat for 3 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, add a splash of beef broth or a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the crock pot.
- Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- If you prefer milder chili, reduce or omit the hot sauce.
- Add corn or black beans to mix up the texture and flavors.
Storage
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through. Chili also freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but be sure to soak and cook dried beans fully before adding them to the crock pot to ensure they soften properly during cooking.
How spicy is this chili?
This chili has a moderate level of spice thanks to the hot sauce and chili powder. You can adjust the heat by using less hot sauce or choosing a mild chili powder.
PrintCrock Pot Chili Recipe
This hearty Crock Pot Chili recipe combines ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and a blend of spices slow-cooked to perfection. Easy to prepare and packed with rich flavors, it’s a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 8 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, with liquid
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, with liquid
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
Instructions
- Prepare the Chili Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, salt, dried basil, oregano, parsley, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well to create the chili seasoning blend.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and liquid thoroughly.
- Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Transfer the browned beef to the crock pot. Add diced onion, green bell pepper, pressed garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans (with liquid), pinto beans (with liquid), hot sauce, and the chili seasoning blend. Stir everything until well combined.
- Cook the Chili: Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on the low setting for 3 to 8 hours. The longer cooking time allows flavors to meld beautifully. Check occasionally and stir if desired.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the chili hot. Customize with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Notes
- No need to drain the beans; include them with their liquid for added flavor and texture.
- For a spicier chili, add more hot sauce or some cayenne pepper.
- This chili tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
Keywords: Crock Pot chili, slow cooker chili, ground beef chili, easy chili recipe, comfort food, hearty chili, weeknight dinner
