Description
This Best Slow Cooker Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish made with tender beef, beans, and a rich, spiced tomato sauce. Slow-cooked to perfection, this easy chili recipe is perfect for cozy nights, game days, or meal prep.
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp oregano
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté Aromatics – Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Slow Cooker Assembly – Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Stir well.
- Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust & Thicken – Taste and adjust seasoning. For a thicker chili, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
- Serve – Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, green onions, or avocado.
Notes
Make It Spicier – Add more cayenne, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
Vegetarian Option – Omit meat and add extra beans or lentils.
Thicker Chili – Mash some beans or stir in masa harina (corn flour) during the last 30 minutes.
Storage & Freezing – Refrigerate for 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Dinner, Slow Cooker Recipes
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
