How do I make beef chili in a crockpot?

To make beef chili in a crockpot, start by browning lean ground beef and diced onions in a skillet for added flavor and texture. Then transfer them to the slow cooker and add kidney beans, black beans, canned diced tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, and a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.

Can I adjust the spiciness of crockpot beef chili?

Yes, you can easily adjust the heat level of your crockpot beef chili. The basic recipe is mild, making it family-friendly. For more spice, increase the chili powder by one tablespoon and add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper during cooking. You can also serve with hot sauce or sliced jalapeños on the side for those who want an extra kick.

Is it necessary to brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker?

Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker is recommended because it improves the chili’s flavor and texture. Cooking the meat and onions in a skillet caramelizes the sugars and creates a richer taste, while also helping to reduce excess fat. Skip this step if short on time, but browning is ideal for the best results.

What toppings and serving ideas go well with crockpot beef chili?

Crockpot beef chili is versatile and pairs well with a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, sour cream, and jalapeños. For different meals, serve it over baked potatoes, use it as a filling in chili dogs, or offer it as a hearty dip with tortilla chips for parties.

Can I make crockpot beef chili with dried beans instead of canned?

Using dried beans requires additional preparation because dried beans must be soaked and cooked before adding them to the slow cooker. The recipe is designed for canned beans, which are already cooked and ready to use. If using dried beans, boil or pressure cook them separately until tender, then add to the chili during the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili Recipe With Rich Flavors

Name: Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili
Prep time: PT-490116H6M2S
Cook time: PT-490117H56M2S
Total time: PT-490117H56M2S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7) This forms the hearty base, providing protein and a rich meaty flavor while keeping the dish lighter by reducing excess fat.; 1 onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth, helping to build a savory foundation that enhances the overall taste of your Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili.; 3 garlic cloves, minced Infuses a pungent, aromatic kick that boosts the dish’s flavor profile and offers potential health benefits like immune support.; 2 tsp cumin powder Brings earthy warmth and a nutty undertone, making this chili distinctly flavorful and balanced.; 2 tbsp chili powder Provides the signature spice that gives Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili its mild heat and robust character.; 1 tsp garlic powder Complements fresh garlic by adding extra savoriness, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor without overwhelming other ingredients.; 1 tsp dried oregano Offers a subtle herbal note that rounds out the spices, contributing to the comforting, homey feel of the dish.; 1 1/2 tsp salt or to taste Seasoning that enhances all flavors, but adjustable so you can tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.; 1/2 tsp black pepper Adds a touch of heat and complexity, helping to balance the richness of the beef in your Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili.; 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed Supplies fiber and plant-based protein, improving texture and making the chili more filling and nutritious.; 30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans), drained and rinsed These beans add heartiness and tradition, packed with protein and fiber for a wholesome meal.; 30 oz diced tomatoes with juice Brings moisture and acidity, creating a chunky base that melds flavors and adds a fresh, tangy element.; 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice Introduces a hint of spice and brightness, elevating the chili’s taste while keeping it family-friendly.; 30 oz tomato sauce Serves as the liquid foundation, thickening the chili and carrying the spices for a smooth, cohesive finish.

Description

🌶️ This Classic Slow Cooker Chili Recipe offers a rich and hearty flavor that warms you up from the inside out.
🍲 Perfect for family meals, it’s easy to make and packed with lean ground beef, beans, and spices for a balanced, comforting dish.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7) This forms the hearty base, providing protein and a rich meaty flavor while keeping the dish lighter by reducing excess fat.

1 onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth, helping to build a savory foundation that enhances the overall taste of your Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili.

3 garlic cloves, minced Infuses a pungent, aromatic kick that boosts the dish’s flavor profile and offers potential health benefits like immune support.

2 tsp cumin powder Brings earthy warmth and a nutty undertone, making this chili distinctly flavorful and balanced.

2 tbsp chili powder Provides the signature spice that gives Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili its mild heat and robust character.

1 tsp garlic powder Complements fresh garlic by adding extra savoriness, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor without overwhelming other ingredients.

1 tsp dried oregano Offers a subtle herbal note that rounds out the spices, contributing to the comforting, homey feel of the dish.

1 1/2 tsp salt or to taste Seasoning that enhances all flavors, but adjustable so you can tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.

1/2 tsp black pepper Adds a touch of heat and complexity, helping to balance the richness of the beef in your Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili.

15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed Supplies fiber and plant-based protein, improving texture and making the chili more filling and nutritious.

30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans), drained and rinsed These beans add heartiness and tradition, packed with protein and fiber for a wholesome meal.

30 oz diced tomatoes with juice Brings moisture and acidity, creating a chunky base that melds flavors and adds a fresh, tangy element.

10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice Introduces a hint of spice and brightness, elevating the chili’s taste while keeping it family-friendly.

30 oz tomato sauce Serves as the liquid foundation, thickening the chili and carrying the spices for a smooth, cohesive finish.

Instructions

1-First Step: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients Start by pulling together all the ingredients for your Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves ahead of time, as this helps everything move quickly. This initial setup, or mise en place, ensures you can adapt for dietary needs, like using low-sodium options if you’re watching salt intake.

2-Second Step: Brown the Beef Mixture Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the 2 lb of lean ground beef. Sauté it for about 4-5 minutes until it releases fat, breaking it up with a spatula for even cooking. This step enhances the flavor and texture of your Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili, making it safer and more delicious, and it’s easy to modify for spicier versions by adding extra seasonings here.

3-Third Step: Add Onions and Aromatics Once the beef is partially cooked, stir in the diced onion and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until it’s tender. Then, mix in the 3 minced garlic cloves along with the spices: 2 tsp cumin powder, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds more, stirring constantly to release their aromas, which you can adjust for milder preferences to suit kids or those new to Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili.

4-Fourth Step: Transfer to the Slow Cooker Move the beef mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker for the next phase. Add the drained and rinsed beans (15 oz can black beans and 30 oz kidney beans), along with the 30 oz diced tomatoes with juice, 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice, and 30 oz tomato sauce. Stir everything together to combine, which allows flavors to blend nicely and lets you tweak for thinner consistency if needed.

5-Fifth Step: Cook and Serve Set your slow cooker to high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, depending on your schedule. This slow cooking method tenderizes the beef and melds the ingredients, making your Hearty Crockpot Beef Chili even better for meal prep. Once done, taste and adjust seasoning, then serve warm with toppings like cheese or avocado, adapting for various dietary twists as you go.

Notes

🌟 For a thinner consistency, stir in extra beef broth or tomato sauce near the end of cooking.
🌶️ To make it spicier, add an extra tablespoon of chili powder and 1/4 to 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, or serve hot sauce on the side.
🍳 Browning the beef before slow cooking improves flavor, texture, and food safety.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Slow Cooker Cooking Time: 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low
Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 340
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 889mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 13g
Protein: 33g
Cholesterol: 56mg

Keywords: slow cooker chili, beef chili, hearty chili, classic chili