Here’s a simple, hearty slow-cooker chili recipe that’s perfect for busy days. You can set it and forget it!
🌶️ Slow Cooker Chili (Classic & Cozy)
Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 10–15 min
Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Ingredients
Meat & Veggies
- 1–1.5 lbs ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
Canned Goods
- 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-oz) can kidney beans, drained
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans or pinto beans, drained
- 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce (optional for thicker chili)
Seasonings
- 2–3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½–1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ¼–½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat (Recommended):
In a skillet, brown ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
Optional but adds flavor—if you skip this, add an extra hour of cooking. - Add to Slow Cooker:
Place meat, onion, bell pepper, garlic, beans, tomatoes, and tomato sauce into the slow cooker. - Season:
Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne. - Stir Everything Together.
- Cook:
- Low: 6–8 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
- Taste & Adjust Seasoning:
Add more salt or spices as needed before serving.
Optional Add-Ins
- 1–2 tbsp brown sugar (balances acidity)
- ½–1 cup beef broth (for thinner chili)
- Corn kernels
- Diced jalapeños
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce
- A square of dark chocolate (yes—it adds depth!)
Toppings (Choose Your Adventure!)
- Shredded cheddar
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped green onions
- Cilantro
- Fritos or tortilla chips
- Sliced jalapeños
If you want, I can also give you:
🍗 A chicken chili version
🌽 A vegetarian/vegan version
🔥 A spicy Texas-style no-bean chili
📋 A printable, short recipe card
Would you like one of those?
