This $6 Crockpot Chili for Families fills your kitchen with warm, savory aromas. It’s hearty, simple, and perfect for busy days when you want a filling meal without spending much.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-friendly and feeds a crowd
- Simple ingredients you already have
- Hands-off slow cooking
- Rich, comforting flavor
- Great for leftovers
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Total Time: 6–8 hours 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup water or broth
Optional swaps: use lentils instead of meat or add corn for sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add beef to the slow cooker.
- Add beans, crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, and spices.
- Pour in water or broth and stir well.
- Cook $6 Crockpot Chili for Families on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. Add shredded cheese or sour cream on top. Pair with iced tea or lemonade for a complete meal.
Quick Tips or Variations
- Add a pinch of cocoa powder for deeper flavor
- Use smoked paprika for a bold taste
- Toss in diced bell peppers for extra texture
FAQs
How many gallons of chili do I need for 60 people?
You need about 5–6 gallons of chili for 60 people. Plan for roughly 1 cup per person.
What is the secret ingredient to a good chili?
A small amount of cocoa powder or coffee adds depth and richness without changing the taste.
How long does chili need to go in the crockpot?
Cook chili on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours for best flavor.
Does celery go in chili?
Celery is optional. Some cooks add it for texture, but traditional chili often skips it.
This $6 Crockpot Chili for Families proves that simple ingredients can create a filling and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for weeknights or feeding a crowd with ease.
Print
$6 Crockpot Chili for Families
- Total Time: 6–8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This $6 Crockpot Chili for Families is hearty, simple, and budget-friendly. Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 can kidney beans
1 can black beans
1 can crushed tomatoes
1 small onion
2 cloves garlic
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper
1 cup water or broth
Instructions
1. Brown beef and drain fat
2. Add beef to crockpot
3. Add remaining ingredients
4. Stir well
5. Cook on low 6–8 hours
6. Adjust seasoning and serve
Notes
Add cocoa powder for depth
Use lentils for vegetarian option
Store leftovers in fridge up to 3 days
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
