The Ultimate Crockpot Chili Recipe

The Ultimate Crockpot Chili Recipe a rich, hearty, and perfectly spiced chili made effortlessly in the crockpot—this recipe is perfect for game days, family dinners, or cozy nights at home. With a blend of ground meat, beans, and spices, it’s a comforting dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly easy to make: Just brown the meat, combine the ingredients in your crockpot, and let it do the work.

Rich, hearty, and packed with flavor thanks to a mix of spices, tomatoes, and beans.

Perfect for meal prepping—this chili tastes even better the next day.

Customizable to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

A crowd-pleaser that’s great for parties, potlucks, or a comforting dinner at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef

1 pound ground pork or turkey

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, diced

1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup beef broth

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Toppings

Shredded cheese

Sour cream

Chopped green onions

Tortilla chips

Directions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, ground pork (or turkey), and onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Transfer the browned meat mixture to your crockpot.

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything to combine.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the flavors meld together.

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.

Serve the chili hot with your favorite toppings.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)

Total Time: 6-8 hours

Servings: 6

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add extra beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu for a plant-based chili.

Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat, or leave it out altogether for a milder version.

Meat Choices: Use ground chicken, turkey, or even a mix of ground meats for different flavors.

Smoky Twist: Add a teaspoon of chipotle powder or a diced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for extra smokiness.

Thicker Chili: Let the chili cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to thicken it up.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: Freeze the chili in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Warm the chili in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Related Recipes:

• Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
• Beef Chili
• White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese

FAQs

How can I make this chili spicier?

You can increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the recipe for an extra kick.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

Yes, simmer the ingredients in a large pot over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to develop the flavors.

What can I serve with chili?

Serve it with cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or tortilla chips for a hearty meal.

Can I substitute the beans in the recipe?

Absolutely. Pinto beans or chickpeas work well as substitutes for kidney or black beans.

Does this chili taste better the next day?

Yes! The flavors deepen and meld together after resting, making it even more delicious the following day.

Conclusion

This ultimate crockpot chili is the perfect combination of ease and flavor, making it a staple recipe for busy days or when I want a comforting, home-cooked meal. Whether for a crowd or just a quiet night in, this hearty chili is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try—I’m confident it’ll become one of your go-to dishes!

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