There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a classic slow cooker chili wafting through your home. Picture this: hearty beans, tender meat, and a medley of spices mingling together, creating a tantalizing blend that warms the soul. hearty soup options easy slow cooker meals Each spoonful is a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe recipe.
Now, let’s not forget those moments when you find yourself scrambling for dinner ideas—enter the classic slow cooker chili. It’s your trusty sidekick that saves the day while you binge-watch another season of your favorite show. perfect chili side dish The anticipation builds as you toss everything into the pot and let it simmer away, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents that make it nearly impossible to wait.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic slow cooker chili is super easy to prepare and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor
- Its rich, comforting flavors are perfect for any gathering or cozy night in
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, and it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences
I still remember the time I made this dish for my friends during game night, and they couldn’t stop raving about it.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a flavorful yet healthy option; turkey can be used for a lighter alternative. ground beef recipes.
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Canned Beans: Black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans work well; rinsing them helps reduce sodium levels. For more inspiration, check out this Country Ranch Green Beans recipe.
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Diced Tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes for convenience; their acidity balances the flavors beautifully.
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Onion: A sweet onion adds depth; sauté until translucent to release its natural sugars.
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Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers bring sweetness and crunch; feel free to mix red, yellow, or green varieties.
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Chili Powder: This spice blend is essential; adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
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Cumin: Adds an earthy flavor that complements the chili powder perfectly; don’t skip this one!
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the dish; mince them finely for even distribution throughout the chili.
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Beef Broth or Stock: Provides moisture and richness; low-sodium versions are great to control saltiness.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onions and bell peppers. Rinse your canned beans under cold water to reduce sodium levels. Set everything aside in bowls so you’re ready to go.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Toss in onions and bell peppers until they soften and turn fragrant—about 5 minutes will do wonders.
Brown the Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbly—this should take about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary but keep some juices for flavor!
Add Spices and Tomatoes : Stir in diced tomatoes along with chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let these aromatic spices mingle for a minute until they’re bursting with flavor.
Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker : Transfer your beef mixture into the slow cooker. Add rinsed beans and pour in beef broth; stir gently until combined.
Cook Away!: Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours—just walk away! Your home will smell divine while dinner cooks itself.
Taste Test Time!: Near the end of cooking time, taste your chili and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want an extra pinch of salt or a dash more chili powder!
Serve with Style!: Ladle the steaming chili into bowls. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions if desired—and enjoy!
A classic slow cooker chili is more than just food; it’s comfort wrapped up in every spoonful. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it solo on the couch after a long day, each bite reminds you of warmth and home-cooked goodness!
You Must Know
- This classic slow cooker chili isn’t just hearty; it’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days
- The aroma wafting through your home will make everyone think you’re a culinary genius
- Plus, it’s super easy to prep and even easier to customize!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat in a skillet while chopping veggies. Once done, transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it work its magic for hours.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground turkey or chicken for beef. Toss in some beans or corn for extra flavor and texture. Spice it up with jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if necessary.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect flavor, let your chili simmer longer; it enhances depth and richness
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure balance
- Make sure to brown your meat well for added flavor before adding to the slow cooker
Nothing warms my heart quite like memories of my first chili cook-off; I was convinced I would take home the trophy. While my dish didn’t win, my friends still talk about that flavorful concoction with fondness!
FAQ
What type of meat is best for classic slow cooker chili?
Ground beef offers rich flavor, but turkey or chicken are great alternatives.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, just soak dried beans overnight and increase cooking time accordingly.
How can I make classic slow cooker chili spicier?
Add more chili powder or toss in fresh jalapeños for an extra kick!
Classic Slow Cooker Chili
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the rich, hearty flavors of this classic slow cooker chili, a perfect dish for cozy nights or family gatherings. With tender ground beef, vibrant beans, and a blend of aromatic spices simmered to perfection, this recipe creates a warm and inviting aroma that fills your home. Enjoy a comforting bowl topped with your favorite garnishes, making it an irresistible meal you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prep your ingredients by chopping onion and bell peppers. Rinse beans under cold water.
- 2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions and bell peppers until soft, about 5 minutes.
- 3. Add ground beef to the skillet; cook until browned (about 8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- 4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
- 5. Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add rinsed beans and pour in beef broth; stir gently.
- 6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- 7. Taste near the end of cooking time; adjust seasoning as needed.
- 8. Serve hot in bowls with desired toppings like cheese or sour cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
