Why make this recipe
Crock pot chili is a perennial favorite in many homes. This dish is not only delicious but also packs a punch when it comes to flavor and nutrition. Using a slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with family and friends rather than in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of beef, beans, and spices results in a hearty meal that can be enjoyed whenever you need a warm, comforting dish. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or a simple weeknight dinner, this chili will satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.
How to make Crock Pot Chili
Making crock pot chili is as straightforward as it gets. Follow this simple guide to whip up a pot of chili that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 onion
- 1 green bell pepper
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or other cooking oil)
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 3 tablespoons chili powder, divided
- 15.5 ounces kidney beans
- 15.5 ounces chili hot beans
- 29 ounces diced tomatoes
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ tablespoon salt
Directions:
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by dicing the onion, green peppers, and garlic. Using fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor of your chili.Sauté Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly softened.Cook the Ground Beef
Add 2 pounds of ground beef to the pan. Cook it until almost browned. Remember, you’re not looking for fully cooked beef at this stage since it will continue to cook in the crock pot.Season the Beef
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chili powder over the ground beef in the pan. Stir to mix well. Continue cooking until the meat is completely done, which should take just a few minutes more.Combine in the Crock Pot
Transfer the cooked beef and vegetable mixture into a slow cooker. Now, add the remaining ingredients: kidney beans, chili hot beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, onion powder, brown sugar, garlic powder, and salt. Stir everything well to ensure that the flavors meld together.Let It Cook
Cover the crock pot and set it on low. Let your chili cook for about 4 hours. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.Enjoy
Once the time is up, give your chili a good stir and serve! You can garnish it with cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions, depending on your preference.
Nutriments benefits
Chili is loaded with nutrients that can give your body a boost. Here are some key benefits:
Protein: The ground beef and beans are great sources of protein, which helps in muscle building and repair.
Fiber: Beans are high in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and keeping you full longer.
Vitamins: Onions, peppers, and tomatoes provide essential vitamins. They contribute to immune health and skin health.
Antioxidants: Ingredients like garlic and tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and protect cells.
What to Serve With Crock Pot Chili
Crock pot chili is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with several sides. Here are some ideas:
- Cornbread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up the chili.
- Rice: Serve your chili over white or brown rice for a fulfilling meal.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips add texture and are perfect for dipping.
- Salads: A simple green salad can balance the richness of the chili.
Why You’ll Love This
There are countless reasons to adore crock pot chili. Here are just a few:
- Ease of Preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and walk away!
- Versatility: You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs by swapping ingredients.
- Leftovers: Chili often tastes better the next day, making it a perfect dish for meal prepping or leftovers.
How to store Crock Pot Chili
Storing crock pot chili is easy! Here’s how you can keep it fresh:
Refrigeration: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing: For longer storage, chili can be frozen. Place it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips and mistakes to avoid
While making crock pot chili is easy, some common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some tips to ensure a delicious outcome:
Don’t Skip the Sautéing: While it might be tempting to throw everything directly into the crock pot, sautéing the vegetables and beef brings out their flavors.
Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and well-seasoned meat will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you like it spicier, don’t hesitate to add extra chili powder or include jalapeños.
Taste as You Go: Always taste your chili before serving. You can adjust the seasonings if necessary.
Variation
Crock pot chili is versatile and can be modified in so many ways! Here are a few variations:
Turkey Chili: Substitute ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetarian Chili: Use a variety of beans, lentils, and add more vegetables like zucchini, corn, or carrots.
Beans Variety: Experiment with different types of beans, like black beans or pinto beans, for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I leave chili in the crock pot overnight?
It’s best not to leave food in the crock pot overnight as it could go into the danger zone for foodborne bacteria. Instead, store it in the fridge after cooking.Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but they will need to be soaked and cooked beforehand, as they take longer to cook than canned beans.How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by letting it cook uncovered for a while, adding a cornstarch slurry, or mixing in some masa harina (corn flour).
Making crock pot chili is an enjoyable experience that culminates in a delightful dining experience. With its rich flavors and versatility, it will become a staple recipe in your home. Enjoy your creation with family and friends, and savor every bite!
Print
Crock Pot Chili
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and flavorful crock pot chili made with ground beef, beans, and a variety of spices, perfect for game days or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 3 tablespoons chili powder, divided
- 15.5 ounces kidney beans
- 15.5 ounces chili hot beans
- 29 ounces diced tomatoes
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ tablespoon salt
Instructions
- Start by dicing the onion, green peppers, and garlic.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until almost browned.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chili powder over the beef and stir well.
- Transfer the beef and vegetables into a slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients. Stir well.
- Cover and set the crock pot on low for about 4 hours.
- Once cooked, stir the chili and serve with your choice of toppings.
Notes
For added flavor, consider garnishing with cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. Adjust spice levels to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
