Classic Slow Cooker Chili

why make this recipe

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. It’s perfect for a family dinner, game day, or any chilly evening when you want something hearty and satisfying. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience. Not to mention, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time, making it convenient for busy schedules.

how to make Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 medium onions (chopped finely, 2 cups)
• 1 red bell pepper (cut into 1/2 inch cubes)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
• 1/4 cup chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 pounds 85% lean ground beef
• 1 can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed, 15 ounces each)
• 1 can pinto beans (drained and rinsed, 15 ounces each)
• 28 ounces diced tomatoes with juice
• 28 ounces tomato puree

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, coriander, pepper flakes, oregano, and cayenne. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and beginning to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Increase heat to medium-high and add half the beef. Cook, breaking up pieces with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink and just beginning to brown, about 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Add the remaining beef and cook, breaking up pieces with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 3 to 4 minutes.
5. Pour all contents into the crock pot.
6. Add beans, tomatoes, tomato puree, and 1/2 teaspoon salt into the crock pot. Stir everything to combine.
7. Cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

how to serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Serve your Classic Slow Cooker Chili hot, topped with your favorite garnishes. You can add shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado. Pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal. It’s also great for making delicious chili dogs or loading onto baked potatoes for a tasty twist!

how to store Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

tips to make Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika or diced jalapeños.
• If you want a thicker chili, reduce the amount of tomato puree or add a little cornmeal.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes according to your taste.

variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with textured vegetable protein (TVP), lentils, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since veggies may not need as long to cook.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, using canned beans is convenient and works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding.

Is it okay to cook chili overnight on low?
Yes, cooking chili on low for a longer period of time allows the flavors to deepen and blend even more. Just make sure your slow cooker has a timer to avoid overcooking.

Can I add other vegetables to the chili?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or corn to give it more texture and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces before adding them to the slow cooker.

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