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 not only delicious but also easy to prepare. This Crockpot Chili recipe is perfect for any night of the week, and it’s a fantastic option for quick family dinners. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a simple chili recipe for Crock Pots that requires minimal prep time.
- Perfect for busy weeknights, it cooks while you go about your day.
- Hearty and filling, it’s a great way to warm up during the fall and winter months.
- Versatile! You can customize it with your favorite toppings or add-ins.
- Great for meal prep; it stores well and tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Crockpot Chili, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
- 1 small yellow or white onion (diced)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili seasoning (see note for recipe)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can dark red kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can light red kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Making this Crockpot Chili is as easy as 1-2-3! Here’s how:
- In a large non-stick skillet, brown 2 pounds of lean ground beef with 1 small diced onion over medium-high heat. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Once the meat is fully cooked, add in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to toast the garlic.
- Remove the meat and onion mixture from the heat and drain off any excess grease if needed. Add the browned meat to the base of the slow cooker.
- Add 1 (28 oz) can of crushed tomatoes, 1 (14.5 oz) can of diced tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of chili seasoning, 1 (14.5 oz) can of dark red kidney beans, and 1 (14.5 oz) can of light red kidney beans to the slow cooker. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
- Serve with cheese, sour cream, chips, cornbread, or your favorite toppings!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Crockpot Chili turns out perfectly every time:
- For a little extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- If you love beans, add an extra can or try different varieties like black beans or pinto beans.
- Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; sometimes a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference!
- For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
How to Serve
This Crockpot Chili is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Top with shredded cheese, diced green onions, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
- Serve it alongside cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
- Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.
- For a fun twist, serve it over baked potatoes or rice!
Make Ahead and Storage
This chili is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- It also freezes beautifully! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.
So there you have it! The Best Chili Recipe Award Winning Crockpot is just a few steps away. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or a cozy meal for a chilly evening, this Crockpot Chili is sure to please. Don’t forget to check out my other Chilli Crockpot Recipes and Ground Beef Stovetop Chili for more delicious options. Happy cooking!
Crockpot Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Brown ground meat and diced onion in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Transfer the cooked meat and onion mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chili seasoning, and beans to the slow cooker. Mix well.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Serve hot with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or chips.