There’s just something about a hearty crockpot chili that warms you from the inside out, don’t you think? It’s like a big, cozy hug in a bowl! The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare—just toss everything in, set it, and let the magic happen. As the flavors meld together throughout the day, your kitchen fills with the most mouthwatering aromas that’ll have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner. I just love how each spoonful bursts with rich, savory goodness and a hint of spice. Trust me, you’re going to want to dive right into this comforting bowl of joy!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef (you can use lean for a healthier option)
- 1 onion, chopped (I love using a sweet onion for extra flavor)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color works, but I usually go for green)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained (the perfect hearty addition)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (this gives your chili that rich base)
- 3 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to your spice tolerance—wowza!)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (adds a warm, earthy note)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy, taste as you go!)
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nicely cooked through—this step adds a depth of flavor that you’ll love.
- Next, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper, and let them cook until they soften up, about 5 minutes. You want them to be just tender and fragrant.
- Once that’s done, transfer the beef mixture to your trusty crockpot. It’s time to get everything mingling!
- Now, add in the drained kidney beans, the crushed tomatoes, and all those wonderful spices: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything evenly.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just let it do its thing while you go about your day!
- When it’s done cooking, the chili will be bubbling and oh-so-inviting. Serve it hot, and don’t forget to add your favorite toppings like cheese or sour cream!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super easy to make—just set it and forget it!
- Rich, bold flavors that get better as they cook.
- Made with healthy ingredients that everyone will enjoy.
- Perfect for meal prep; just scoop and go!
- Great for gatherings—your friends will be asking for seconds!
Tips for Success
To make the perfect crockpot chili, start by browning the meat well—this adds amazing flavor, so don’t rush it! Make sure to drain any excess fat before adding it to the crockpot. When it comes to spices, trust your taste buds—feel free to adjust the chili powder and cumin to suit your preference. And here’s a little secret: adding a splash of vinegar or a bit of dark chocolate can elevate the flavor even more!
For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze portions for a quick meal later—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy every last bite!
Variations
The beauty of crockpot chili is its versatility! If you want to shake things up, try swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also experiment with different beans—black beans or pinto beans work great, too! If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some corn for a sweet pop or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, simply replace the meat with extra beans or lentils. You can even add some diced zucchini or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Remember, the spices are your best friends, so feel free to play around with smoked paprika or chipotle powder for that smoky, spicy depth!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! This hearty crockpot chili is not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch. Each serving (about 1 cup) typically contains around 250 calories, 10g of fat, 15g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. So, go ahead and enjoy this comforting dish without a second thought!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions work wonderfully. Just chop them up and toss them in the crockpot. The cooking time might vary a bit, so keep an eye on them!
How can I make it spicier?
If you’re craving some heat, add fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also increase the chili powder or mix in some cayenne pepper. Just taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready for another comforting bowl!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious leftover crockpot chili is super simple! Just let it cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to a week, so you can enjoy those cozy flavors again and again. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it in individual portions—just be sure to leave a little space in the containers for expansion. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy every spoonful!
Print
Crockpot Chili: 5 Steps to Comfort in a Bowl
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and flavorful crockpot chili that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and bell pepper, and cook until soft.
- Transfer the mixture to the crockpot.
- Add the kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Notes
- Top with cheese, sour cream, or green onions if desired.
- This chili can be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: crockpot chili, easy chili recipe, slow cooker chili
