Classic Slow Cooker Chili
An easy and comforting dish, Classic Slow Cooker Chili is perfect for family dinners, game days, or a cozy night in. This recipe features ground beef, hearty beans, and a rich tomato sauce seasoned to perfection. The best part? You can set it and forget it—just let the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this chili without any fuss.
- Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a robust flavor that warms you from the inside out.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it on its own, over rice, or with cornbread for a complete meal anyone will love.
- Perfect for Large Gatherings: This recipe serves 10, making it ideal for potlucks or family parties.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare ahead of time and let the flavors meld together in the slow cooker.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: It allows for low-and-slow cooking that enhances flavors while tenderizing the meat.
- Large skillet: Perfect for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker.
Ingredients
For the Chili Base
- 2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Beans and Tomatoes
- 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans), drained and rinsed
- 30 oz diced tomatoes, with their juice
- 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis, with their juice
- 30 oz tomato sauce
How to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sauté for 4-5 minutes. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks until it releases its fat.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for another 4-5 minutes until tender. Then add minced garlic along with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds while stirring constantly.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), diced tomatoes with green chilis (with their juice), and tomato sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.
Step 5: Final Touches
Taste your chili once it’s done cooking; adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm with your favorite toppings!
How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili
Serving Classic Slow Cooker Chili is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it a satisfying meal. Here are some great ideas for serving this hearty dish.
With Toppings
- Shredded Cheese – Add a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy texture that complements the chili.
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast to the spice of the chili.
- Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions add color and a mild onion flavor.
As a Chili Bar
- Cornbread Muffins – Serve warm cornbread muffins on the side for a delightful combination.
- Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips can be used for scooping, adding a fun element to your meal.
- Pickled Jalapeños – For those who like it spicy, provide pickled jalapeños as an optional topping.
In a Bowl
- Over Rice – Serve the chili over steamed rice for a filling meal.
- With Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices can balance the heat and add richness.
How to Perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili
To make your Classic Slow Cooker Chili even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Seasoning – Don’t be shy with your spices. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preference to enhance the flavors.
- Quality Meat – Use lean ground beef for less grease. Opt for 90/10 or 93/7 ground beef for best results.
- Cook Low and Slow – For maximum flavor, cook on low heat for at least 6-8 hours. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Variety – Consider mixing different beans or adding veggies like bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
- Taste Before Serving – Always taste your chili before serving. Adjust salt and spices as needed for optimal flavor.
- Store Properly – Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Classic Slow Cooker Chili
Pairing your Classic Slow Cooker Chili with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some perfect options to consider.
- Cornbread – Sweet or savory cornbread makes an ideal accompaniment that pairs well with chili’s spice.
- Garden Salad – A light garden salad offers freshness that balances the richness of the chili.
- Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a hearty base when topped with chili and cheese.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Crispy grilled cheese sandwiches are perfect for dipping into your bowl of chili.
- Rice Pilaf – A fluffy rice pilaf adds an aromatic touch that complements the flavors in the chili.
- Coleslaw – The crunch of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Classic Slow Cooker Chili, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Skipping the Browning: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a gray, unappetizing color. Always sauté the meat first for better flavor.
- Overseasoning at Once: Adding too much seasoning initially can make it difficult to adjust later. Start with less, taste as you go, and adjust accordingly.
- Not Using Enough Liquid: Slow cookers need moisture to work effectively. Ensure you have enough liquid from tomatoes and beans to prevent burning.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high for too long can dry out the chili. Stick to recommended times for the best texture and flavor.
- Overloading the Cooker: Filling your slow cooker beyond its capacity can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the recipe’s serving size for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Classic Slow Cooker Chili
- Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months—just remember to label them!
Reheating Classic Slow Cooker Chili
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a popular dish, and many people have questions about it.
Can I make Classic Slow Cooker Chili without meat?
Yes! You can substitute meat with more beans or vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
What toppings pair well with Classic Slow Cooker Chili?
Common toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and fresh cilantro.
How do I spice up my Classic Slow Cooker Chili?
You can add jalapeños, hot sauce, or additional chili powder for extra heat according to your taste.
How long does Classic Slow Cooker Chili last in the fridge?
This chili lasts about 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
Classic Slow Cooker Chili is not only hearty but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite beans, veggies, or spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. So grab your slow cooker and give this recipe a try!
Classic Slow Cooker Chili
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on low (or 4 hours on high)
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or cozy nights in, this easy crockpot chili combines lean ground beef, a medley of beans, and rich tomato sauce seasoned with aromatic spices. The best part? You can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over several hours. This recipe serves 10, making it an excellent choice for potlucks or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans), drained and rinsed
- 30 oz diced tomatoes, with their juice
- 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis, with their juice
- 30 oz tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for about 4-5 minutes. Break it apart as it cooks.
- Add diced onion and sauté until tender (4-5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and spices; cook for another 30 seconds.
- Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and chili powder. Mix well.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
- Taste before serving; adjust seasonings if necessary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 368
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 879mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
