How to Make Hearty Slow-Cooked Spicy Crockpot Chili in 8 Easy Steps

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a hearty chili simmering away in the kitchen, especially on a chilly evening! If you’re like me and love a good bowl of spicy goodness, then you’re in for a treat with this Hearty Slow-Cooked Spicy Crockpot Chili. It’s the perfect dish for quick family dinners, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Plus, if you’re looking for easy pasta recipes to pair with it, I’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze!
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers – it tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable heat levels to suit your family’s taste.
• Packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice.
• Great for entertaining or cozy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, diced (remove seeds for less heat)
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Hearty Slow-Cooked Spicy Crockpot Chili:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
2. Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, red and green bell peppers, and jalapeño to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sautéed vegetables to the crockpot with the browned beef.
4. Stir in the drained kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and tomato paste.
5. Pour in the beef broth and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the crockpot. Stir until the spices are well distributed.
7. Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
8. Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed.
9. Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your chili turns out perfectly:

• For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of beer or a tablespoon of cocoa powder.
• If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add more jalapeños or even some diced habaneros!
• Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for lentils or your favorite meat substitute.
• Pair this chili with some Classic Slow Cooker Chili for a fun chili night!

How to Serve

This Hearty Slow-Cooked Spicy Crockpot Chili is perfect on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• Warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
• Over a bed of rice for a filling meal.
• As a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.
• With a side of Crockpot Chili for a chili feast!

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. It also freezes beautifully, so feel free to make a double batch and save some for later. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! This Hearty Slow-Cooked Spicy Crockpot Chili is sure to become a family favorite, and it’s a wonderful addition to your collection of Best Ever Beef Chili recipes. Happy cooking!