Incredibly flavorful and packed with protein, this Crock Pot Chili Recipe is perfect for cozy nights and gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at your next potluck, this chili checks all the boxes. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a standout choice that will keep everyone satisfied.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With minimal chopping and cooking time, you can set it and forget it for hours.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices and meats creates an irresistible taste that warms you up.
Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion, from casual family dinners to game day parties.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or substitute ingredients to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make making this Crock Pot Chili Recipe even easier!

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Large skillet
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: This is essential for infusing flavors slowly, ensuring that your chili is rich and hearty.
Large skillet: Perfect for browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker.
Cutting board & knife: These tools are necessary for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

Vegetables

1 onion
1 green bell pepper
3 cloves garlic

Meat & Beans

2 pounds ground beef (I use 80/20)
15.5 ounces kidney beans
15.5 ounces chili hot beans

Sauces & Spices

29 ounces diced tomatoes
8 ounces tomato sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil (or other cooking oil)
3 tablespoons chili powder (divided)
2 tablespoons cumin
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon brown sugar
½ tablespoon garlic powder
½ tablespoon salt

How to Make Crock Pot Chili Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Dice the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic.
Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced vegetables and sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, stirring occasionally until it’s almost browned.

Step 3: Season the Meat

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chili powder over the ground beef in the skillet.
Continue cooking until the meat is fully browned and cooked through.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned meat mixture into your slow cooker.
Add all remaining ingredients: beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, onion powder, brown sugar, garlic powder, and salt.
Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Cook on Low

Set your slow cooker on low heat.
Allow it to cook for about 4 hours.

This delicious Crock Pot Chili Recipe will fill your home with amazing aromas while it cooks, making it an inviting dish for any gathering! Enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Chili Recipe

Crock Pot Chili is a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Toppings

Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for a creamy finish.
Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream to balance the spices and add richness.
Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a nice crunch and a pop of color.

With Bread

Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a sweet complement to the chili’s heat.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread can soak up the chili and add extra flavor.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make for a fun dipping option.

As a Meal Prep Option

Over Rice: Serve over white or brown rice for a heartier meal.
In Tacos: Use the chili as filling in soft or hard-shell tacos for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Chili Recipe

To get the most out of your Crock Pot Chili, here are some helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture in your chili.
Brown the Meat First: Browning ground beef adds depth to the chili’s flavor profile.
Adjust Spice Levels: Start with less chili powder and add more to suit your taste preferences.
Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for an hour after cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Experiment with Beans: Try different beans, like black beans or pinto beans, for variety in texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Chili Recipe

Pairing sides with your Crock Pot Chili can elevate your dinner. Here are some great options.

Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the rich flavors of the chili.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for an easy two-in-one meal.
Mexican Rice: Flavorful Mexican rice complements the spices in the chili well.
Grilled Vegetables: Grilled veggies bring freshness and color to your plate.
Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas on the side make for delicious dipping bites with each spoonful of chili.
Side Salad: A light mixed greens salad provides a refreshing contrast to hearty chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Crock Pot Chili Recipe, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Skipping the Sauté: Not browning your onions, peppers, and meat can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always sauté these ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker for a richer taste.
Overloading with Beans: Adding too many beans can dilute the chili’s flavor. Stick to the recommended amounts for a well-balanced recipe.
Ignoring Spice Balance: Using too much or too little spice can ruin your chili. Taste as you go and adjust spices according to your preference for heat and flavor.
Neglecting Cooking Time: Cooking on high instead of low may lead to uneven cooking. Always follow the recommended slow cooking times for best results.
Using Low-Quality Meat: Opting for lean meat might seem healthier, but it can result in dry chili. Use ground beef with some fat content for a juicier texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store chili in an airtight container.
It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crock Pot Chili Recipe

Allow chili to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Chili Recipe

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious Crock Pot Chili Recipe.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. It will make your chili lighter yet still flavorful.

What toppings go well with crockpot chili?

Some popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.

How long does crockpot chili last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 4 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace meat with lentils or additional beans and use vegetable broth instead of any meat products.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Chili Recipe is not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different beans, vegetables, or spices based on your preferences. Give it a try; it’s perfect for cozy dinners!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Crock Pot Chili Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Jessica
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of our irresistible Crock Pot Chili Recipe, perfect for chilly nights or gatherings with friends and family. This dish combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients, making it a go-to meal that satisfies every palate. With minimal preparation, you can set it in your slow cooker and let the flavors meld beautifully while you enjoy your day. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this chili is sure to impress.

Instructions

Dice the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté vegetables for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
Sprinkle with chili powder and continue cooking until fully browned.
Transfer meat mixture to a slow cooker and add all remaining ingredients; stir well.
Cook on low for about 4 hours.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Slow cooking
Cuisine: American