Crock Pot Chili

This Crock Pot Chili recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Made with ground beef, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a blend of chili seasoning, this slow-cooked chili is rich, hearty, and full of flavor. With kidney beans adding protein and fiber, it’s a healthy and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer to make it spicy, vegetarian, or customize it with your favorite toppings like cheddar cheese, sour cream, or onions, this chili is versatile and easy to make. Cook it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours in your crock pot for the perfect cozy meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes
• 14 oz can of tomato sauce
• ¼ cup chili seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• ½ onion, chopped
• 2 cans kidney beans (drained and rinsed)

For Serving:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream

Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess grease and transfer the meat to the crock pot.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili seasoning, garlic salt, chopped onion, and kidney beans to the crock pot. Stir everything together to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally if desired.
4. Serve: Once the chili is ready, ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and additional chopped onions if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crock Pot Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy days. Simply brown the beef, toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it cook to perfection. The rich combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chili seasoning delivers a satisfying, comforting meal, while the kidney beans add protein and fiber. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this chili is an easy and tasty option that’s packed with flavor.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Meat Options: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or a variety of beans for a meatless chili.
• Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier chili, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also use a spicier chili seasoning blend.
• Beans: Kidney beans are traditional, but you can also use black beans, pinto beans, or a mix of your favorites.
• Tomato Options: If you like your chili a bit thicker, use diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes or add tomato paste for more richness.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini into the chili.

FAQs

Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes! This chili stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors often taste even better after a day or two. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a crock pot?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a crock pot, you can simmer the chili in a large pot on the stovetop. Let it simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are fully blended.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe can easily be doubled to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure your crock pot can accommodate the larger quantity, or use two separate crock pots.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with Toppings: Customize your chili by topping it with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and fresh cilantro. You can also add avocado or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Serve with Cornbread: Serve your chili with a side of homemade cornbread or tortilla chips for a filling and delicious meal.
• Over Rice: For a heartier option, serve the chili over a bed of rice or quinoa to make a complete meal.
• Chili Bar: Set up a chili topping bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeños, and any other favorite toppings so everyone can customize their bowls.

This Crock Pot Chili is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion!