Classic Slow Cooker Chili

An easy yet satisfying dish, Classic Slow Cooker Chili is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. With its hearty combination of ground beef, beans, and rich tomato sauce, this chili is sure to please everyone at the table. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about convenience and versatility.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chili Base
• For Beans and Tomatoes
• For Garnish
• How to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Step 1: Brown the Beef
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
• Step 4: Add Beans and Tomatoes
• Step 5: Cook Low or High
• Step 6: Taste & Serve
• How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• With Toppings
• As a Chili Bar
• In Creative Dishes
• How to Perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Best Side Dishes for Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Reheating Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this Classic Slow Cooker Chili different?
• Can I make Classic Slow Cooker Chili vegetarian?
• How do I spice up my Classic Slow Cooker Chili?
• Can I use other types of meat in this chili?
• How long does it take to cook Classic Slow Cooker Chili?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Just brown the beef and toss everything in the slow cooker. It doesn’t get easier than this!
• Rich Flavor: The homemade chili seasoning infuses every bite with robust taste that will warm you from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite beans or veggies for a personal twist.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, serving up to 10 people!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Classic Slow Cooker Chili, gather some essential tools that will make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, resulting in tender meat and deep flavors.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Spatula: Helps break up the meat easily while cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

• 2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp cumin powder
• 2 Tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For Beans and Tomatoes

• 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans), drained and rinsed
• 30 oz diced tomatoes, with their juice
• 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis, with their juice
• 30 oz tomato sauce

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sauté for 4-5 minutes. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks until it releases its fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for another 4-5 minutes until tender. Stir in the minced garlic along with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds while stirring constantly.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Transfer the beef mixture into your slow cooker.

Step 4: Add Beans and Tomatoes

Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), diced tomatoes with green chilis (with juice), and tomato sauce to the slow cooker. Stir everything well to combine.

Step 5: Cook Low or High

Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.

Step 6: Taste & Serve

Once cooked, taste your chili and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Serving Classic Slow Cooker Chili is all about enhancing its robust flavors and making it a comforting meal for your family and friends. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

With Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Top your chili with a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamy addition.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can add a cool contrast to the spicy chili.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a nice crunch and vibrant color.
• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous flavor boost.

As a Chili Bar

• Serve with Cornbread: Offer slices of warm cornbread for a sweet and savory pairing.
• Tortilla Chips: Provide crunchy tortilla chips for dipping into the chili or as an accompaniment.
• Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices for richness and texture.

In Creative Dishes

• Chili Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with chili, cheese, and toppings for a delicious nacho platter.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use the chili as a filling for bell peppers, baking them until tender.

How to Perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Perfecting your Classic Slow Cooker Chili takes just a few simple adjustments. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef (like 90/10) to avoid excess grease in your chili.
• Brown the Meat: Browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor through caramelization.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your chili before serving; adjust salt and spices to match your preference.
• Cook Low and Slow: For optimal flavor development, cooking on low for longer is preferable to high heat.
• Add Fresh Ingredients Last: Stir in fresh herbs or toppings just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavors.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Classic Slow Cooker Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread complements the spice of the chili beautifully.
2. Rice: Serve over white or brown rice to soak up all the delicious sauce from the chili.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the hearty dish.
4. Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with chili for a filling twist on traditional baked potatoes.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides an excellent way to scoop up every last bit of chili.
6. Salad: A light salad with fresh greens serves as a crisp counterpoint to rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Classic Slow Cooker Chili, even small mistakes can impact flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Ignoring the browning step: Skipping the browning of the ground beef can lead to a bland chili. Always sauté until browned for depth of flavor.
• Overloading on spices: Using too many spices can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
• Not draining beans: Failing to drain and rinse canned beans can result in a watery chili. Always drain your beans before adding them.
• Cooking too long on high: Cooking on high for too long can overcook your chili. Follow cooking times closely to maintain perfect texture.
• Skipping taste testing: Not tasting before serving means missing out on adjusting flavors. Always sample and tweak seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Classic Slow Cooker Chili different?

This recipe features a perfect blend of spices and the slow cooking method, which intensifies flavors, resulting in a rich and hearty chili.

Can I make Classic Slow Cooker Chili vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or additional beans for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I spice up my Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for more heat, or incorporate cocoa powder for a unique twist.

Can I use other types of meat in this chili?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives while maintaining similar cooking times.

How long does it take to cook Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

It typically takes about 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low, depending on your slow cooker settings.

Final Thoughts

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different beans or vegetables according to your taste. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings—give it a try!