Mary KellyBefore diving into the details of this mouthwatering easy slow cooker chili, let’s talk about what you can pair with it. The beauty of chili is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for something light or hearty, there are numerous options.
Cornbread is a classic side. Sweet, buttery cornbread balances the spiciness of the chili beautifully. Try making it into muffins for easy serving!
Rice is another great pairing. White or brown rice absorbs the chili’s flavors, making every bite even more satisfying. It’s a simple way to stretch the dish.
Tortilla chips add a fantastic crunch. Serve them on the side or sprinkle them on top for a fun twist. Who doesn’t love a bit of texture in their dish?
Now, let’s jump into the recipe itself!
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Today, we’re whipping up an easy slow cooker chili that’s as hearty as it is simple. I’ve relied on this recipe for years, especially during the chilly months when comfort food feels like a warm hug.
The best part? You toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, let it do the magic, and voila! You have a meal that will both fill your tummy and warm your soul.
But there’s more to this dish than meets the eye. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this easy slow cooker chili a winning recipe.
What is Easy Slow Cooker Chili?
At its core, easy slow cooker chili is a combination of robust ingredients slowly simmered to perfection. The beauty lies in its unique blend of spices, beans, tomatoes, and meat (or veggies, if you prefer), all coming together in one pot.
A slow cooker does the heavy lifting, melding flavors beautifully as it cooks throughout the day.
Why This Recipe Works
Here are a few reasons that make this easy slow cooker chili stand out:
- Time-Saving Convenience: Who has hours to spend in the kitchen? With a slow cooker, you toss everything in, set it, and forget it. You can go about your day, knowing a delicious meal is on the way.
- Flavor Development: Slow cooking allows flavors to bloom and intensify. The extended cooking time enhances the taste, making it richer and more satisfying. It’s like the flavors are having a party, and everyone’s invited.
- Nutrient Retention: Cooking in a slow cooker can retain vitamins compared to methods where ingredients are boiled. Those beans and veggies keep their nutritional punch, which is ideal for health-conscious eaters.
- Customization: You can vary the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have available. Vegetarian? No problem. Spice lover? Kick it up a notch. There’s room for personal flair in this recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
For this delightful chili, gather the following ingredients:
- 30 oz diced tomatoes with juice
- 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 30 oz kidney beans, two 15oz cans, drained and rinsed
- 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chiles, in their juice
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 lb lean Ground Beef (90/10 or 93/7)
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano leaves
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 Tbsp chili seasoning
- 30 oz tomato sauce
- 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
How to Make This Easy Slow Cooker Chili?
Curious about the steps? Let’s walk through them:
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a skillet, brown your lean ground beef over medium-high heat. This step is essential as it adds flavor to your chili. Once done, drain any excess fat and set aside.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
While the meat browns, chop the onion and garlic. Having these ingredients ready to go enhances the cooking process.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Toss the browned meat, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, beans (both black and kidney), diced tomatoes with chiles, tomato sauce, and spices into the slow cooker. Don’t forget the smoked paprika and cilantro!
Step 4: Mix Well
Stir everything together. Ensure all ingredients are mixed evenly. This guarantees a wonderful blend of flavors throughout.
Step 5: Cook Slowly
Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. The longer, the better!
Step 6: Serve
Once the chili is cooked, stir again. Adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve with your preferred sides. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your chili-making game, keep these tips in mind:
- Quality Meat Matters: Don’t skimp on your ground beef. Lean cuts yield less grease. Opt for at least 90% lean.
- Soak Your Beans: If using dried beans, soak them overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but improves texture.
- Adjust Spiciness: If you like heat, add fresh jalapeños or extra chili seasoning. For a milder version, skip the diced tomatoes with chiles.
- Variety of Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans. Black, pinto, and navy beans all bring different flavors and textures.
- Top It Off: Sprinkling cheese, sour cream, or avocado on top right before serving adds a delightful touch.
Nutrition Information
easy slow cooker chili nutrition facts
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags.
Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
What Sides Would Complement Easy Slow Cooker Chili?
- Cornbread: This southern staple blends flavors effortlessly. The warmth of cornbread adds a sweet touch that complements spicy chili.
- Rice: Both white and brown rice are excellent choices. The rice absorbs the chili’s robust flavors, ensuring a comforting bite every time.
- Tortilla Chips: For a crunchy texture, serve tortilla chips on the side. They’re perfect for scooping up chili or enjoying on their own.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you’re looking for a healthier protein option, these work well instead of beef.
- Canned Vegetable Mix: If tomatoes are out, use canned vegetable mix or fresh, diced vegetables from your fridge.
- Chili Powder for Chili Seasoning: In a pinch, a blend of chili powder, cumin, and paprika can replace premade chili seasoning.
- Fresh Herbs for Cilantro: If cilantro doesn’t tickle your fancy, try fresh parsley or green onions for a fresh finish to the chili.
Easy Slow Cooker Chili
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet, brown your lean ground beef over medium-high heat. This step is essential as it adds flavor to your chili. Once done, drain any excess fat and set aside.
- While the meat browns, chop the onion and garlic. Having these ingredients ready to go enhances the cooking process.
- Toss the browned meat, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, beans (both black and kidney), diced tomatoes with chiles, tomato sauce, and spices into the slow cooker. Don’t forget the smoked paprika and cilantro!
- Stir everything together. Ensure all ingredients are mixed evenly. This guarantees a wonderful blend of flavors throughout.
- Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. The longer, the better!
- Once the chili is cooked, stir again. Adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve with your preferred sides. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
- Quality Meat Matters: Don’t skimp on your ground beef. Lean cuts yield less grease. Opt for at least 90% lean.
- Soak Your Beans: If using dried beans, soak them overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but improves texture.
- Adjust Spiciness: If you like heat, add fresh jalapeños or extra chili seasoning. For a milder version, skip the diced tomatoes with chiles.
- Variety of Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans. Black, pinto, and navy beans all bring different flavors and textures.
- Top It Off: Sprinkling cheese, sour cream, or avocado on top right before serving adds a delightful touch.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with additional beans or lentils. This keeps the dish hearty.
Is it okay to leave the chili in the slow cooker overnight?
It’s not recommended. For safety, don’t leave the chili warming for more than two hours after cooking.
Can I use frozen meat?
Yes! Just ensure it’s completely thawed before browning, or it will steam rather than brown.
How do I thicken my chili?
If it’s too runny, try adding cornmeal or masa harina to thicken it naturally.
What’s the best way to reheat chili?
Reheat on the stove over low heat for even warming. Alternatively, using the microwave in short intervals also works well.
Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can add different flavors and textures to your chili.
Conclusion
So there you have it— an easy slow cooker chili that’s bound to impress family and friends. With its combination of hearty ingredients and convenience, it has become a staple in my kitchen.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy dinner for two, this recipe won’t disappoint.
Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let your slow cooker work its magic. I promise you’ll be happy you did. Enjoy your delicious chili journey!
