Hearty Slow Cooker Chili

Crockpot Beef

Simply Crockpot • Beef

This slow cooker beef chili is rich, hearty, and packed with bold flavor. Made with tender ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and warm spices, it’s the perfect crockpot chili for game day, meal prep, or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients Instructions Tips Storage FAQ

Slow Cooker Beef Chili

Prep Time15 minutes

Cook Time6–8 hours

Total Time6 hours 15 minutes

Servings6–8

Why You’ll Love This Chili

  • Thick, hearty, and full of bold flavor.
  • Perfect for feeding a crowd.
  • Easy slow cooker recipe with minimal prep.
  • Even better the next day.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1½ tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Ingredient notes:
• Lean ground beef works best.
• Swap beans based on preference.
• Add cayenne if you like heat.

Instructions

  1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
  2. Add cooked beef to the crockpot.
  3. Add onion, garlic, beans, tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices.
  4. Stir well to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Tip: For thicker chili, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last 30 minutes.

Tips & Variations

  • Extra heat: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
  • Smoky flavor: Add chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
  • Low-carb: Reduce or skip beans.
  • Toppings: Cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop or microwave.

FAQ

Can I skip browning the beef?

Browning adds flavor, but you can add raw beef directly if short on time.

How do I thicken chili?

Let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or mash some beans.

Is this chili spicy?

It’s mild to medium—adjust spice to taste.

More Crockpot Beef Recipes

Looking for more hearty slow cooker meals? Browse our full collection of crockpot beef recipes. Browse Beef Recipes →

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