Looking for slow cooker chili? This easy crockpot chili is a dump-and-go dinner made with simple ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- True dump-and-go crockpot meal
- Rich, slow-simmered flavor
- Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Budget-friendly pantry ingredients
- Easy to customize (spicy, mild, or extra hearty)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Green onions
- Crushed tortilla chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess grease.
- Transfer cooked beef to the crockpot.
- Add onion, garlic, tomatoes, beans, tomato sauce, broth, and spices.
- Stir until well combined.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Equipment
- Slow cooker (crockpot)
- Skillet (for browning meat)
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
Tips & Variations
- Spicy chili: Add cayenne or diced jalapeños
- Thicker chili: Remove lid for last 30 minutes
- No-bean chili: Skip beans and add extra meat
- Vegetarian option: Swap meat for lentils or extra beans
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Freezing: Freeze up to 3 months
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with cornbread or crackers
- Spoon over baked potatoes
- Pair with a green salad
- Top with cheese, sour cream, or avocado
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 20g
Conclusion
This Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe is a no-fail classic simple ingredients, bold flavor, and perfect every time. Save it, pin it, and keep it on repeat for cozy dinners and crowd-friendly meals.
FAQ
Can I freeze crockpot chili?
Yes, chili freezes very well for up to 3 months.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely, chili tastes even better the next day.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works perfectly.
How do I thicken chili?
Let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes, or add an extra can of beans.
Can I cook raw beef directly in the crockpot?
You can, but browning adds better flavor and texture.