Looking for the perfect slow cooker chili recipe? This hearty and flavorful classic chili is packed with tender ground beef, beans, and the perfect blend of spices for a satisfying meal. Ideal for busy weekdays or cozy family dinners, this easy chili recipe is made in the slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it. Serve it with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro for the ultimate comfort food experience.

This slow cooker beef chili is a crowd-pleaser that is both filling and delicious. Made with lean ground beef, black beans, kidney beans, and tomatoes, it’s a healthy and flavorful option for anyone craving a classic chili. You can easily make this dish spicier by adjusting the chili powder or adding a diced jalapeño. Slow-cooked chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

2 lbs lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp cumin powder
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 ½ tsp salt, or to taste
½ tsp black pepper
15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans), drained and rinsed
30 oz diced tomatoes, with juice
10 oz diced tomatoes and green chiles, with juice
30 oz tomato sauce

Instructions:

In a large skillet, heat the ground beef over medium-high heat. Brown the beef for 4-5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it releases its fat.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until tender. Stir in the minced garlic and seasonings: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
Add the drained and rinsed beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and tomato sauce to the slow cooker. Stir everything to combine.
Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic slow cooker chili is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich, hearty flavors and a perfect blend of spices. The slow cooker does all the work for you, making it a stress-free dish to prepare for busy weekdays, family dinners, or casual get-togethers. Plus, the beans and lean ground beef provide a satisfying and nutritious meal that everyone will love.

Tips

For a spicier chili: Add more chili powder or a diced jalapeño to kick up the heat.
Use lean ground turkey or chicken: For a leaner version of this chili, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
Thicken your chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker or add a bit of tomato paste.
Adjust seasonings: Taste your chili towards the end of cooking and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Chili: Use a mix of beans like black beans, pinto beans, and kidney beans, and replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles.
Toppings: Top your chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.
Beans: If you prefer different beans, feel free to swap kidney beans for pinto beans or use a variety of beans for texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze the leftover chili? Yes, this chili freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

How do I make this chili thicker? For a thicker consistency, either mash some of the beans in the slow cooker or add a small amount of cornstarch or flour mixed with water at the end of cooking.

Can I cook this on the stovetop? Yes, you can cook this chili on the stovetop. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer on low heat for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Serving

Serve this classic slow cooker chili with a side of cornbread, over rice, or with tortilla chips. For extra flavor, top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Suggestions

For a complete meal, pair with a fresh salad and your favorite bread.
Make it a chili bar: Offer a variety of toppings such as cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and cilantro for guests to customize their chili.

Enjoy this simple yet flavorful classic slow cooker chili that is sure to become a family favorite!