Oh, there’s just something so cozy about a big pot of homemade chili simmering away in the crockpot! This comforting crockpot chili recipe has been a family favorite of mine for years, especially on those chilly evenings when all you want is something warm and filling. You just toss everything in, set it, and forget it—how easy is that? I love coming home after a long day to the smell of chili wafting through the house; it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can tailor it to your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just enjoying a hearty bowl for yourself, this recipe is sure to bring everyone together. Trust me, once you try this crockpot chili recipe, it’ll become your go-to for those cold nights when you crave something hearty and satisfying. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef, browned and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a rich, hearty chili that’s bursting with flavor. And don’t worry if you can’t find everything on this list; there are plenty of ways to mix and match based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Let’s keep it simple and delicious!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delicious crockpot chili! I promise it’s super straightforward, and you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering meal that fills your home with delightful aromas. Ready? Here we go!
- Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. You want to make sure it gets nice and brown, which adds great flavor to your chili. Once it’s browned, don’t forget to drain any excess fat—nobody wants a greasy chili!
- Next, transfer that beautifully browned beef into your crockpot. It’s time to let the magic happen!
- Now, it’s time to add all the other wonderful ingredients. Toss in the drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans, along with the undrained diced tomatoes. The tomatoes add a nice base to the chili, so don’t skip that step!
- Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. These two ingredients really amp up the flavor, making your chili taste homemade and comforting.
- Now, sprinkle in the chili powder and cumin. These spices are the heart of the chili, giving it that signature kick! Season it all with salt and pepper to your liking. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—it really brings everything together.
- Finally, pour in the beef broth. This will help everything cook down and meld into a rich, hearty chili.
- Once everything is in the crockpot, give it a good stir to combine all those lovely ingredients. It should look colorful and inviting!
- Now, cover the crockpot and set it to cook. If you have the time, set it on low for 6 to 8 hours. If you need it faster, you can go for high heat, which will take about 3 to 4 hours. Either way, it’s going to taste fantastic, so don’t worry!
- When it’s done cooking, you’ll know because your home will smell heavenly! Serve it hot, and enjoy it with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado—whatever feels comforting to you.
And there you have it! A simple, step-by-step guide to making the perfect crockpot chili. I can’t wait for you to try it, and I know you’ll love the ease and flavor of this dish just as much as I do!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and quick preparation: With just a bit of browning and tossing ingredients in the crockpot, you’ve got a delicious meal with minimal effort!
- Comforting and hearty meal: This chili is the definition of cozy. It warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for those chilly nights.
- Versatile for dietary needs: Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer vegetarian options, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit everyone’s tastes.
- Great for leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day! It’s a fantastic option for meal prep and makes for easy lunches.
- Perfect for gatherings: If you’re hosting friends or family, this crockpot chili is a surefire crowd-pleaser that can be kept warm and served easily.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make your crockpot chili, let me share some of my best tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time! First off, when you’re browning the ground beef, make sure to do it over medium heat. This helps to lock in the flavor without burning it. Don’t rush this step; a nice golden-brown color is what you’re aiming for!
As for seasoning, taste is everything! Start with the recommended amounts of chili powder and cumin, but feel free to adjust based on your preferences. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix. Just remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
One common mistake to avoid is overcrowding your crockpot. If you’re making a larger batch, make sure there’s enough space for all those ingredients to meld beautifully. And don’t forget to give it a good stir before cooking to ensure all those lovely flavors are incorporated.
Lastly, keep an eye on the cooking time. If you’re cooking on low, resist the urge to peek too often—keeping the lid on helps maintain that perfect cooking environment. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious crockpot chili that everyone will love!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
One of the best parts about this crockpot chili recipe is how flexible it is! If you’re looking for vegetarian options, you can easily swap out the ground beef for lentils or an extra can of beans. Lentils cook down beautifully and add a lovely texture while soaking up all those wonderful flavors. If you want to keep it hearty, try adding more kidney or black beans—trust me, they’ll make your chili just as satisfying!
Another great addition is bell peppers. Diced bell peppers can bring a sweet, vibrant flavor to your chili. Just toss them in with the other ingredients, and they’ll cook down perfectly. You can use any color you like—red, green, or yellow will all work beautifully!
And if you’re looking for dairy-free options, don’t worry. Instead of cheese or sour cream, top your chili with creamy avocado slices or a dollop of guacamole. It adds a delicious richness while keeping things light and fresh. Feel free to get creative with your toppings, and make this chili your own!
Nutritional Information
As with many recipes, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so keep in mind that these numbers are just estimates. A typical serving of this delicious crockpot chili recipe (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 10g
These values make this chili a hearty, filling option packed with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied. Enjoy it knowing it’s not just comforting but also nutritious!
FAQ Section
Let’s dive into some of the most common questions I get about this fantastic crockpot chili recipe! I want to make sure you have all the information you need to enjoy this dish to its fullest.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This chili freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It should keep well in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
How can I make it spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, there are a few easy ways to kick up the spice level! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few diced jalapeños to the mix. Another great option is to use a spicier chili powder instead of the regular kind. Just start with a small amount and taste as you go—you can always add more, but it’s tough to tone it down once it’s in!
What toppings do you recommend?
Toppings can really elevate your chili experience! I love adding shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some fresh avocado for creaminess. Chopped green onions or cilantro can add a nice fresh touch as well. You could even sprinkle on some tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. Whatever you choose, make it your own and enjoy!
These little tips and tricks will help you make the most of your crockpot chili experience. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find what suits your taste best! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your hearty crockpot chili, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers—lucky you! Storing this chili is really straightforward. First, let it cool completely before transferring it to your storage containers. I recommend using airtight containers; glass or BPA-free plastic ones work wonderfully. This helps keep the chili fresh and prevents any unwanted odors in your fridge!
You can store your chili in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, go ahead and freeze it! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last in the freezer for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
For reheating, you have a couple of options. You can warm it up on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely with a paper towel, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Just be careful—it can get hot quickly!
With these simple steps, you can savor your comforting crockpot chili again and again. Enjoy!
Print
Comforting Crockpot Chili Recipe for Chilly Evenings
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and easy crockpot chili recipe perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Place the browned beef in the crockpot.
- Add beans, tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and beef broth to the crockpot.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or additional beans.
- You can add bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Top with cheese, sour cream, or avocado if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: crockpot chili recipe
