When busy weeknights call for a comforting meal, my go-to is always a pot of classic slow cooker chili simmering away in the kitchen. The moment the garlic hits the pan, followed by the earthy warmth of cumin and chili powder, I can already feel the day’s stress melting away. This recipe brings together tender ground beef, hearty beans, and a balance of spices that make every bowl feel like a warm hug.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for game night, this easy, kid-friendly dish adapts perfectly to your taste—just kick up the heat or switch up the beans. It’s a simple solution for those evenings when the thought of fast food simply won’t do. So grab your slow cooker and let’s transform a few basic ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why will you love this Slow Cooker Chili?
Ease of Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays.
Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it keeps everyone full and satisfied.
Customizable: Whether you like it mild or fiery, you can easily adjust the spices to suit your family’s preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of tender beef, beans, and spices creates a mouthwatering dish that invites seconds.
One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple pans and dishes—everything cooks beautifully in your slow cooker, making cleanup a breeze!
For more tasty options, check out our guide on crowd-pleasing dinners to explore dishes that everyone will love!
Slow Cooker Chili Ingredients
• Get ready for a delightful culinary adventure as we gather the essentials for this comforting dish!
For the Chili Base
- Lean Ground Beef – Provides hearty protein and flavor; consider ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Large Onion – Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed; shallots are a milder alternative.
- Garlic Cloves – Enhance aroma and complexity; substitute with garlic powder if needed.
- Cumin Powder – Offers an earthy warmth; try coriander for a unique twist.
- Chili Powder – The main spice defining this chili’s character; adjust to your preferred heat.
For Flavor and Seasoning
- Garlic Powder – Complements fresh garlic for extra depth; optional if using fresh garlic.
- Dried Oregano – Adds a hint of freshness; Italian seasoning is a great substitute.
- Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust to your taste!
- Black Pepper – Provides subtle heat and complexity; white pepper is another option.
For the Beans & Tomatoes
- Black Beans – Add creaminess, fiber, and balance; pinto or kidney beans work well too.
- Kidney Beans – Bring sweetness and texture; use your favorite bean variety!
- Diced Tomatoes (with juice) – Contributes moisture and acidity; fresh or crushed tomatoes can work in a pinch.
- Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilis – Offer heat and a punch of flavor; try fresh chilis for vibrancy.
- Tomato Sauce – Binds all ingredients together and creates a rich chili consistency.
Embrace the warmth of your kitchen as you dive into making this easy slow cooker chili the whole family will adore!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chili
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Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula for about 4-5 minutes, until it releases fat and is fully cooked.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onions to the skillet and cook until they become tender, approximately 4-5 minutes. Then, stir in minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 30 seconds to release those delicious aromas.
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Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the beef and onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker, making sure to scrape in all those flavorful bits.
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Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in drained black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juice, diced tomatoes and green chilis, and tomato sauce. Give it a good mix, ensuring everything is coated nicely.
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Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours. Go ahead and season to taste right before you serve it warm for your family to enjoy!
Optional: Top your chili with shredded cheese or fresh cilantro for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chili
Fridge: Store leftover slow cooker chili in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This ensures it stays fresh and tasty for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your chili in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing to maintain texture.
Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Notes: Allow the chili to cool before storing to avoid condensation, which can affect texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chili?
When it comes to elevating your family meal, there’s a delightful world of sides that can complement the rich, hearty experience of a warm bowl of chili.
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Crusty Cornbread: The slightly sweet, buttery flavor balances the spicy chili, creating a comforting duo that feels like home.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy and zesty salad adds freshness, cutting through the richness of the chili, making each bite an adventure.
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Savory Rice: Serving your chili over a bed of fluffy rice soaks up the flavors beautifully and offers a filling, hearty component to the meal.
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Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The cool, creamy guacamole paired with the crunchy chips turns your chili night into a fiesta; a perfect munching companion!
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Cheesy Nachos: Layer of cheesy goodness with toppings provide an exciting texture that complements the warmth of the chili, creating endless delicious bites.
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Sour Cream Topping: A dollop of sour cream adds a lovely creaminess that balances the spices in the chili, making each spoonful even more satisfying.
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Beer Pairing: A light lager or a refreshing pale ale complements the hearty elements of the chili, enhancing your overall dining experience.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, a warm slice of apple pie brings a sweet finish, rounding off the meal with a nostalgic touch that everyone loves.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chili
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Brown the Beef Well: Make sure to brown the ground beef fully for a deeper flavor in your slow cooker chili. Under-browning may result in a bland base.
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Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili powder based on your family’s spice tolerance. A little can go a long way! Consider separate toppings for those who prefer mild.
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Mix Flavors: Don’t worry about exact measurements; be creative! Adding extra veggies like bell peppers or corn can enhance flavor and nutrition.
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Sauté Aromatics First: Sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. This step boosts the overall aroma and flavor of your chili.
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Check Consistency: Before serving, if you want a thicker chili, mash some beans against the side of the slow cooker and stir to thicken the sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chili preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can brown your ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. The beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce can also be combined and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the beef mixture, add it to your slow cooker with the prepped components, and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours. This way, you’ll enjoy a hearty, delicious meal with minimal effort on a busy weeknight, and it will taste just as scrumptious!
Slow Cooker Chili Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and textures in this comforting chili recipe—there’s a world of delicious possibilities waiting for you!
- Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option that still satisfies.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace meat with lentils or quinoa for a hearty, plant-based chili that’s rich in protein.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you prefer your chili with an extra fiery punch.
- Sweet and Savory: Mix in corn or diced sweet potatoes to introduce a delightful sweetness that balances the spices.
- Tex-Mex Flair: Incorporate black olives and serve with tortilla chips for a fiesta feel that’s sure to impress.
- Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens the dish.
- Mushroom Meaty: Substitute with chopped mushrooms to add a rich, umami flavor for depth while keeping it plant-based.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt right before serving for a luscious creaminess everyone will love.
Easy Classic Slow Cooker Chili Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting onions, look for firm ones with no dark spots or blemishes. For garlic, choose bulbs that are tightly packed and free from sprouting. Diced tomatoes should be vibrant in color with no signs of denting or bulging cans. Fresh herbs? They should be crisp and fragrant!
How long can I store leftover slow cooker chili?
You can store leftover slow cooker chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To preserve its taste and texture, make sure it cools down before refrigerating. When reheating, simply add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it thickens up.
Can I freeze slow cooker chili, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your slow cooker chili, allow it to cool completely first. Then, transfer it to one or more sealed freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It should maintain its flavor in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water if needed.
What should I do if my chili turns out too spicy?
If your chili ends up a bit spicier than you’d like, there’s no need to fret! Stir in a little bit of sour cream or cream cheese for a cooling effect. Another great option is to add some additional beans or even a little sugar to help balance out the heat. Taste-test as you adjust!
Is this slow cooker chili pet-friendly?
While the ingredients in this chili are safe for humans, it’s best to avoid sharing it with pets. Garlic and onions can be toxic to dogs and cats. If your furry friends like a taste of the good life, consider cooking them a separate, safe mix of ground meat and veggies without seasoning while you savor your chili.
Can I customize the spice level in my slow cooker chili?
The more the merrier! You can easily adjust the heat of your slow cooker chili by modifying the amount of chili powder or adding fresh jalapeños or hot sauce just before serving. If your family prefers a milder flavor, start with less spice and let everyone add their own heat with optional toppings like hot sauce or diced chilis!
Savor the Taste: Easy Slow Cooker Chili for Family Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart for about 4-5 minutes until fully cooked.
- Sauté onions until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper for another 30 seconds.
- Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add drained black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juice, diced tomatoes and green chilis, and tomato sauce. Mix until coated.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours. Season to taste before serving.