There’s nothing quite like coming home to the warm, comforting aroma of a hearty Slow Cooker Chili simmering away all day. This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a filling meal with minimal effort. Using ground beef, beans, and a medley of spices, this chili hits all the right notes—rich, robust, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your taste and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Let’s dive in!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Slow Cooker Chili stands out because it balances simplicity with bold, rich flavors. The slow cooker allows the spices and ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a deep, savory taste that’s better than any quick stovetop version. Using two types of beans—kidney and black beans—adds textural variety and extra protein. The addition of fresh bell pepper and optional jalapeño gives it a gentle crunch and just the right amount of heat, but you can always dial it up or down. It’s a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s incredibly versatile and perfect year-round.

Your Shopping Guide

Ground beef (1 pound): Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option or regular ground beef for richer flavor.
Onion (1 medium): Yellow or white onions work well for a slightly sweet base.
Garlic (2 cloves): Freshly minced garlic packs the best punch.
Kidney beans (1 can, 15 oz): Drained and rinsed to reduce excess sodium.
Black beans (1 can, 15 oz): Also drained and rinsed for the same reason.
Diced tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz): Use fire-roasted if you want a smoky depth.
Chili powder (2 tablespoons): Choose a quality blend for authentic flavor.
Cumin (1 tablespoon): Ground cumin adds earthiness and warmth.
Oregano (1 teaspoon): Dried oregano brings a subtle herbaceous note.
Salt and pepper: To taste; use sea salt or kosher salt for best results.
Bell pepper (1, chopped): Any color—red, yellow, or green—adds sweetness and crunch.
Jalapeño pepper (1, chopped, optional): Adds heat if you like your chili spicy. Remove seeds for milder flavor.
Beef broth (1 cup): Provides moisture and enhances the beef flavor; low sodium recommended.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Slow cooker: Essential for the low-and-slow cooking that makes this chili so tender and flavorful.
Skillet or frying pan: For browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic.
Cutting board and knife: To chop onions, peppers, and garlic.
Measuring spoons and cups: For precise spice and liquid measurements.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and combining ingredients.
Can opener: To open canned beans and tomatoes.

Build Slow Cooker Chili Step by Step

Step 1: Prep your ingredients

Chop the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Mince the garlic cloves so they’re ready to go.

Step 2: Brown the ground beef

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat to keep the chili from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Sauté onion, garlic, and peppers

In the same skillet, add a splash of oil if needed and sauté the onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic until soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine ingredients in the slow cooker

Transfer the browned beef, sautéed vegetables, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Cook low and slow

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors deepen.

Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning

Before serving, taste the chili and adjust salt, pepper, and chili powder to your liking.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.

Seasonal Twists

Fall/Winter: Add diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for extra heartiness.
Summer: Stir in fresh corn kernels or diced zucchini for a light, fresh touch.
Spring: Toss in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving.
Spicy kick: Use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce instead of jalapeño for smoky heat.

What I Learned Testing

Browning the beef first really builds a deeper umami flavor than just adding raw ground beef to the slow cooker.
Rinsing canned beans cuts down on sodium and prevents the chili from becoming too thick or starchy.
Cooking on low heat for the full 6-8 hours allows all the spices to really meld together, creating a richer taste.
Adding fresh peppers sautéed with onions softens their bite and enhances sweetness.

How to Store & Reheat

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the chili thickens too much during storage.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lean alternative. Just brown it the same way and watch cooking times, as poultry can dry out faster. You might want to add a bit more broth for moisture.

Is it okay to skip the jalapeño if I don’t like spicy food?

Yes, you can leave out the jalapeño, and your chili will still be flavorful and delicious. If you want some mild heat without the spice, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika instead.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the beef and vegetables, then add the rest of the ingredients and cook on the chili or manual setting for about 20-25 minutes. Quick-release the pressure and it’s ready to serve.

What can I serve with this Slow Cooker Chili?

Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or steamed rice. For a lighter option, try a fresh green salad. If you’re looking for more hearty comfort food ideas, check out my Homemade Sloppy Joes or Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce And Basil.

What to Make After This

Homemade Sloppy Joes – a perfect sandwich to follow your chili night.
Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce And Basil – fresh and vibrant for a lighter dinner option.
Classic cornbread – the ultimate sidekick for any chili recipe.
Loaded baked potatoes – top with chili, cheese, and sour cream for a filling meal.

The Takeaway

This Slow Cooker Chili recipe is a staple you’ll want on repeat. It’s simple to prep, flexible with ingredients, and delivers a warm, comforting meal every time. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this chili promises rich flavor with minimal fuss. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to come home to a dish that’s ready to enjoy. Plus, with delicious seasonal twists and easy storage options, it’s as adaptable as it is tasty. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite chili recipe!

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