Name: Slow Cooker Chili
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 380 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp olive oil; 2 lbs lean ground beef (Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.); 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, finely minced; 2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Use fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra smoky flavor.); 3 cans (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1/2 cup beef broth; 2 Tbsp chili powder (Adjust for spiciness.); 2 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp paprika (Use sweet paprika for milder flavor.); 2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 can (15 oz) dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; to taste Shredded cheddar cheese (Also try with sour cream or other desired toppings.)

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Slow cooker chili is a timeless dish that combines the heartiness of beef, the warmth of spices, and the convenience of a slow cooker into one delicious bowl. Picture a cozy evening, and the rich aroma of savory chili wafts through your home, promising comfort in every bite. This recipe isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about gathering family and friends around the dinner table, sharing laughter and stories as the flavors meld together over hours of simmering goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Imagine coming home after a long day, and dinner is already prepared and waiting for you. That’s the magic of slow cooker chili! Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also budget-friendly, with ingredients you can usually find in your pantry. It’s the ultimate weeknight meal that even the pickiest eaters will love, thanks to its savory depth and that “just-right” kick.

“This slow cooker chili is a game changer! It’s so easy, and my whole family devoured it. The flavors are rich, and it truly warms you up!” – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Overview

Creating a pot of slow cooker chili is straightforward, making it perfect for those busy days. You’ll start by sautéing your onions and garlic, which serves as the aromatic base for your chili. Next, you’ll brown the ground beef before combining everything in the slow cooker. From there, it’s just a matter of waiting as the heat transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

What You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients will set you up for success. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious slow cooker chili:

1 Tbsp olive oil
2 lbs lean ground beef
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
3 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce
1/2 cup beef broth
2 Tbsp chili powder
2 1/2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp paprika
2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp ground coriander
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving

Tip: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option and use fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra smoky flavor.

Directions to Follow

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large, deep non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour the sautéed onions and garlic into your 6 or 7-quart slow cooker.
Brown the Beef: Return the skillet to medium-high heat, add the ground beef, and cook, stirring occasionally until the beef is browned. Drain most of the fat from the beef, leaving about 2 tablespoons.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the browned beef into the slow cooker. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cocoa powder, sugar, coriander, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours.
Add Beans: About 5 minutes before serving, stir in the drained kidney beans and let them heat through.
Serve: Dish up your chili warm, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and any other desired toppings.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Slow cooker chili is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it up in bowls with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with cornbread for dipping, or a side of tortilla chips for a bit of crunch. You can even pile it on top of baked potatoes for a hearty meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be your best friend! Store any unused chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you want to save it for longer, the chili freezes well in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing, and label your containers with dates!

Tips for Success

Don’t Rush the Cooking: The beauty of slow cooker chili lies in the long, slow cooking process. It allows flavors to develop fully, so resist the urge to cook it on high for a rushed meal.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the chili powder and opt for sweet paprika instead of regular paprika.
Taste and Adjust: Remember, the balance of spices is key! Don’t hesitate to taste your chili before serving and adjust the seasonings as necessary.

Creative Twists

Feel like mixing things up? Here are a few creative variations to try with your slow cooker chili:

Vegetarian Chili: Replace the ground beef with a mix of lentils, black beans, and vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Toppings Galore: Top with avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an exciting finish.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare?

Prep time takes about 15–20 minutes. The cooking time in the slow cooker is around 5-6 hours on low, making it perfect for a full day of slow simmering while you’re busy.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Absolutely! Canned beans are time-savers and work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to your chili.

Is it safe to freeze leftover chili?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s cooled completely and stored in a freezer-safe container. It will be best used within 3 months for optimal flavor.

Whether you’re enjoying it at a cozy dinner or hosting a weekend gathering, this slow cooker chili recipe will become a staple. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!