If you are searching for a comforting and hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than the Best Slow Cooker Chili Recipe. This chili recipe strikes the perfect balance between bold spices, tender meat, and rich tomato flavors, all melded together over hours of slow cooking. It’s incredibly easy to make and deeply satisfying, turning simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients into a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or cozy nights in. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become your go-to favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Best Slow Cooker Chili Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role: from the savory ground beef that provides a hearty base, to the colorful beans and tomatoes that add texture and depth. The blend of spices introduces warmth and character, making the chili richly flavorful without overwhelming your palate.
- 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey): Provides a juicy, meaty foundation that absorbs all the spices beautifully.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aroma when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant depth that complements the chili’s bold flavors.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes: Contributes chunks of tangy juiciness and vibrant color.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Ensures a smooth base and rich tomato flavor throughout.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Adds robust tomato richness and helps build the chili’s texture.
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Offers hearty bites and a lovely contrast in texture.
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds earthiness and extra protein for a filling meal.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the savory depth and keeps everything moist.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor with a subtle sweetness.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami richness and a touch of tang.
- 2 tbsp chili powder: The primary seasoning that gives this chili its signature warmth and complexity.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Adds a fragrant smokiness that pairs perfectly with the chili powder.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Intensifies the smoky notes with gentle heat.
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a bit of a spicy kick.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors.
- 1 tsp oregano: Infuses a subtle herbaceous touch.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds background heat and complexity.
- 1 tbsp brown sugar: Counters acidity and enhances overall richness.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional): Provides sweetness and a pop of color.
How to Make Best Slow Cooker Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. This browning step is crucial because it builds flavor through caramelization, creating that savory foundation for the chili. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the chili hearty but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor base by mellowing the sharpness of the raw onion and releasing the sweet, rich aroma of garlic that’s essential in chili.
Step 3: Slow Cooker Assembly
Transfer the browned beef, onion, and garlic into your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and all the spices. Stir everything together thoroughly so that every ingredient is evenly distributed. This assembly is where the magic begins as all those flavors start marrying together.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover your slow cooker and let it do its thing. Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours for deep, tender flavors or on high for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time. Occasionally stirring will help keep everything uniform and prevent sticking on the sides. Slow cooking allows the spices to infuse and all components to melt into one fantastic bowl of chili.
Step 5: Adjust & Thicken
When the cooking time is up, taste your chili and adjust the seasonings to your preference. If you want a thicker consistency, simply take the lid off and allow it to cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. This extra step concentrates the flavors and gives you that perfect hearty texture.
Step 6: Serve
Finally, ladle your Best Slow Cooker Chili Recipe into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Whether it’s shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, or creamy avocado, these garnishes make the dish feel extra special and personal.
How to Serve Best Slow Cooker Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes are where you can get creative and add contrasting textures and flavors. Cheese melts beautifully on hot chili, sour cream adds creaminess, sharp green onions provide freshness, and avocado lends a silky richness. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of brightness that wakes up every bite.
Side Dishes
The Best Slow Cooker Chili Recipe shines as a main dish but pairs wonderfully with several sides. Classic cornbread is a warm, crumbly partner that’s perfect for soaking up every bit of chili. A simple green salad can lighten the meal, while tortilla chips or crusty bread add crunch and make it a fun, casual feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or a family dinner with flair, try serving your chili in mini bread bowls, baked potatoes topped with chili, or even over steamed rice for a comforting twist. You can also offer a chili bar with various toppings and sides so everyone can customize their bowl exactly how they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chili is a gift that keeps on giving. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and you’ll have quick, flavorful meals ready to enjoy with minimal effort.
Freezing
This chili freezes beautifully, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge for convenient enjoyment.
Reheating
Reheat the chili gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often to heat evenly without burning. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if it feels too thick. Microwaving is also an option—just heat in short bursts while stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works perfectly in the Best Slow Cooker Chili Recipe. Just brown it carefully as it tends to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
How spicy is this chili?
The recipe includes chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper, which gives a moderate warmth. You can adjust the cayenne pepper to taste or skip it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Do I need to soak the beans?
No soaking required since this recipe uses canned beans. Just drain and rinse the beans before adding them to reduce sodium and improve texture.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to brown the beef and onions, then pressure cooking for about 20 minutes followed by a natural release. It’s a fantastic quicker alternative to slow cooking.
What toppings do you recommend?
My personal favorites are shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and fresh green onions. You can also add jalapeños or crushed tortilla chips for extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Best Slow Cooker Chili Recipe—it’s more than just a meal; it’s a go-to comfort classic that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table every time. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and bursting with rich, balanced flavors, this chili will soon be your trusted favorite to nourish and delight family and friends with minimal fuss. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Best Slow Cooker Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This best slow cooker chili recipe combines ground beef with a flavorful blend of tomatoes, beans, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a hearty, comforting dish ideal for meal prep or cozy family dinners, delivering layers of smoky, savory, and mildly spicy flavors with minimal hands-on cooking.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
Tomatoes and Beans
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is thoroughly browned. Drain the excess fat to reduce grease and create a better texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, releasing its flavor.
- Slow Cooker Assembly: Transfer the beef, onion, and garlic mixture into the slow cooker. Add all canned tomatoes (diced, crushed, and sauce), kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, oregano, black pepper, brown sugar, and chopped bell pepper if desired. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours, allowing flavors to meld deeply. Alternatively, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. Stir occasionally during the cooking process if possible to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust & Thicken: After cooking, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or spices. For a thicker chili, leave the slow cooker uncovered and cook for an additional 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or sliced avocado for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using ground turkey instead of beef creates a leaner chili option.
- Drain and rinse beans to reduce sodium content.
- The optional cayenne pepper adds heat but can be omitted to make the chili milder.
- Leftover chili stores well and tastes even better the next day.
- Toppings like cheese and sour cream add richness but can be omitted for a dairy-free diet.
