Description
Make the perfect Slow Cooker Chili with ground beef, beans, tomato sauce, and a homemade chili seasoning. This easy recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time and simmers for 3-4 hours, creating the juiciest, most flavorful chili. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish can be customized with your favorite toppings like cheese, avocado, and sour cream.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
2 lbs lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp cumin powder
2 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (30 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chilis, with juice
1 can (30 oz) tomato sauce.
Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add 2 lbs ground beef and cook for about 4-5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it releases fat. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add Onions and Garlic
Add 1 large diced onion to the skillet and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, along with 2 tsp cumin powder, 2 Tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release the spices’ aroma.
Transfer to Slow Cooker
Transfer the beef mixture into a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients: 1 can black beans, 2 cans kidney beans, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 can diced tomatoes and green chilis, and 1 can tomato sauce. Stir everything to combine.
Slow Cook
Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. Stir occasionally, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve
Once the chili is ready, serve hot with your favorite toppings. You can add shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.
Notes
Pro Tips:
Adjust heat level: For spicier chili, add cayenne pepper or jalapeños.
Use lean beef for a healthier version, but feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken.
Double or triple the recipe for meal prep. Store in portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Chili:
Can I use different beans?
Yes! Feel free to swap the beans based on what you have. Pinto beans, black-eyed peas, or white beans also work well.
Can I make this chili spicy?
Yes! Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños to kick up the heat. You can also add extra chili powder for more spice.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, this chili is great for meal prep. You can assemble the ingredients the night before and let it cook in the slow cooker when you’re ready to eat.
What are some other serving suggestions?
Serve the chili with cornbread, rice, or even top it with grated cheese and sour cream for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
