There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of chili, especially when it’s made in a Crockpot. As the weather cools down, I find myself craving hearty meals that are easy to prepare and perfect for cozy nights in. This Chili Recipe Crockpot is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, making it a fantastic option for quick family dinners. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples! If you’re also looking for easy pasta recipes to complement your meals, I’ve got you covered there too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly nights.
- Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings.
- Perfect for family gatherings or game day!
Ingredients
To whip up this delightful chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, tortilla chips
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Making this chili is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onions until no longer pink. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Drain excess grease.
- Transfer the meat mixture to your Crockpot.
- Add beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and all spices. Stir to combine well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the chili is thick and flavorful.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some tips to ensure your chili turns out perfectly:
- For a richer flavor, let the chili cook on low for the full 8 hours.
- Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition.
- If you like it spicy, increase the cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños.
- For a smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
- Don’t skip the toppings! They add a wonderful texture and flavor contrast.
How to Serve
This chili is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it with some delicious toppings. Here are a few ideas:
- Shredded cheese for a creamy touch.
- Sour cream to balance the heat.
- Chopped green onions for freshness.
- Tortilla chips for a crunchy side.
For a complete meal, serve it alongside some cornbread or a simple salad. If you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas, this chili pairs wonderfully with creamy garlic pasta for a delightful twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
This chili is a fantastic make-ahead meal! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
For more chili inspiration, check out my Ground Beef Stovetop Chili or Crockpot Chili recipes. And if you’re in the mood for something truly special, don’t miss my Best Ever Beef Chili recipe!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! This Chili Recipe Crockpot is sure to become a family favorite!
Chili Recipe Crockpot
Ingredients
Method
- Brown ground beef with chopped onions in a skillet until no longer pink. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Drain excess grease.
- Transfer meat mixture to Crockpot. Add beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and spices. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until thick and flavorful.
- Adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot with toppings.