Slow Cooker Chili
Slow Cooker Chili
Why this chili works
This Slow Cooker Chili is a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy days. You can simply add your ingredients in the morning and let the slow cooker do all the work. The flavors meld beautifully, giving you a rich and savory dish that everyone will love.
How to make Slow Cooker Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: cheese, sour cream, green onions
Directions:
- In a skillet, brown the lean ground beef over medium heat, then drain excess fat.
- In the slow cooker, combine the browned beef, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot, with optional toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
How to serve Slow Cooker Chili
Serve this chili hot in bowls. You can offer toppings on the side, allowing everyone to customize their bowls. Crackers or cornbread make great sides, too!
How to store Slow Cooker Chili
Let any leftover chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to make Slow Cooker Chili
- For extra heat, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce.
- You can also throw in some bell peppers or corn for added flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, remove the lid for the last hour of cooking.
Variations
For a vegetarian option, swap out the ground beef for lentils or more beans. You can also use turkey or chicken for a leaner meat option.
FAQs
1. Can I use other beans?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans, such as pinto or kidney beans.
2. Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Absolutely! After browning the meat, simmer all ingredients together on low heat for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. How spicy is this chili?
This recipe has a moderate level of heat. You can adjust the chili powder and add other spices to suit your taste.
Slow Cooker Chili
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef Best if browned before adding to the slow cooker.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed Can substitute with other beans if desired.
- 1 can diced tomatoes Use fire-roasted for an extra smoky flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder Adjust based on heat preference.
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning according to preference.
Optional toppings
- cheese
- sour cream
- green onions
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet, brown the lean ground beef over medium heat, then drain excess fat.
- In the slow cooker, combine the browned beef, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot, with optional toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
