Few dishes fill your home with as much warmth as Hearty Crockpot Chili. Tender beef, beans, tomatoes, and bold spices simmer for hours, creating a thick, rich bowl of comfort. This recipe takes minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor perfect for busy days when you want something satisfying and soul-soothing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple prep — let the slow cooker do the work.
- Bold, rich flavor that deepens over time.
- Perfect for meal prep or game day.
- Freezer-friendly and easy to reheat.
- Great for feeding a crowd.
Preparation and Cooking Time
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high) |
| Total Time | 6 hours 15 minutes |
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp cayenne for heat
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
Swaps:
Use ground turkey for a leaner option, or skip the meat for a hearty vegetarian chili.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add onions, garlic, and peppers; cook until soft.
- Transfer the mixture to the crockpot.
- Add beans, tomatoes, and all spices; stir to combine.
- Cook on Low for 6 hours or High for 3 hours.
- Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm cornbread, a crisp green salad, or baked potatoes. Pair with sweet tea, a cold beer, or a glass of red wine for a cozy night in.
Quick Tips or Variations
- Add cocoa powder for depth of flavor.
- Stir in corn or diced jalapeños for texture and heat.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day!
FAQ
How long does chili have to be in the crockpot?
Cook chili on Low for about 6–8 hours or on High for 3–4 hours. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor.
What are common chili mistakes?
Overcrowding the crockpot or adding too much liquid can lead to a soupy chili. Always season gradually and taste before serving.
How long can chili sit in a crockpot?
Chili can safely sit on the “Warm” setting for up to 4 hours after cooking.
What is the secret to making good chili?
The secret is layering flavor brown your meat, use fresh garlic and onions, and let it simmer long enough to meld the spices.
Conclusion
This Hearty Crockpot Chili is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a flavorful, crowd-pleasing meal every time.
Print
Hearty Crockpot Chili – Comfort Food Made Easy
- Total Time: Crockpot Chili
- Yield: Crockpot Chili
Description
A hearty slow-cooked chili packed with beef, beans, tomatoes, and bold spices — perfect comfort food made easy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Brown beef and drain fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and peppers; cook until soft.
3. Transfer to crockpot and add remaining ingredients.
4. Stir well; cook on Low for 6 hours or High for 3 hours.
5. Serve hot with toppings.
Notes
Store leftovers in fridge up to 4 days.
Freezes well up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: Crockpot Chili
- Cook Time: Crockpot Chili
- Category: Crockpot Chili
- Method: Crockpot Chili
- Cuisine: Crockpot Chili
