The Best Homemade Slow Cooker Chili Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade slow cooker chili is a game-changer, packed with flavor and super easy to make. You’ll love how it turns your kitchen into a cozy haven with minimal effort.
- Set it and forget it: Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you relax.
- Bold, rich flavors: A perfect blend of spices, tender meat, and hearty beans makes every bite delicious.
- Feeds a crowd: Great for family dinners or game-day gatherings, with leftovers that taste even better the next day.
Recipe
Homemade slow cooker chili is the perfect comforting dish for chilly days. Packed with hearty ingredients and bold flavors, this recipe allows you to let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the rich aroma filling your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
Instructions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is fully cooked and onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked meat mixture to your slow cooker.
- Add the chopped red bell pepper, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Notes:
For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use an extra can of beans or a meat substitute.
Equipment:
- Slow cooker
- Skillet
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 6-8
Nutrition
This homemade slow cooker chili is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my slow cooker chili with warm, buttery cornbread—it’s the perfect match for soaking up all that rich flavor. When it comes to toppings, I keep it fun with shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced green onions, but you can get creative with what you’ve got. Trust me, these extras make every bowl feel extra special.
Cornbread Pairings
Since chili and cornbread are a match made in comfort food heaven, let’s talk about how to make that pairing even better. I love serving warm, buttery cornbread alongside rich chili—it’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of flavor. For something extra special, try jalapeño cornbread for a spicy kick or honey-sweetened cornbread to balance the heat. Mini cornbread muffins make a fun, handheld option, especially for gatherings. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll sprinkle grated cheese or green onions into the batter. It’s all about making that classic duo shine even brighter on your plate. Dig in!
Topping Ideas
While cornbread adds the perfect sidekick to chili, toppings can take it to a whole new level of deliciousness. I love piling on shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt into the warmth, and adding a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. Crushed tortilla chips bring a satisfying crunch, while diced avocado adds a fresh, buttery touch. For a bit of heat, I sprinkle sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Green onions or cilantro give a pop of color and flavor. Sometimes, I even throw in a handful of corn kernels for sweetness. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!
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