Best Crockpot Chili

Nothing beats a warm and hearty bowl of chili on a chilly fall evening! This crockpot chili recipe is the perfect comfort food that is easy to prepare and will have your tastebuds dancing with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
• Add the beef to the crockpot along with the onion, bell pepper, garlic, beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

Popular Questions:

• Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

A: Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a healthier option.

• Q: Can I add more vegetables to this chili?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add in additional veggies like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

• Q: Can I make this chili spicy?

A: If you like your chili on the spicier side, you can add more chili powder or even some diced jalapenos for a kick.

• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, this chili freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

A: Yes, you can use dried beans, but make sure to soak and cook them before adding to the chili.

• Q: Can I make this chili vegetarian?

A: Absolutely! Just omit the ground beef and use additional beans or even tofu for a meat-free version.

• Q: Can I cook this chili on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

A: Yes, you can easily simmer this chili on the stovetop for about 1-2 hours until all the flavors meld together.

• Q: How can I thicken the chili?

A: You can add a cornstarch slurry or mix in some masa harina to thicken the chili to your desired consistency.

• Q: Can I add beer to this chili?

A: Adding a bottle of dark beer can add a rich depth of flavor to the chili.

• Q: Can I make this chili in an Instant Pot?

A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot with a shorter cooking time.

Helpful Tips:

• For extra flavor, brown the ground beef with some diced bacon.
• Add a dollop of barbecue sauce for a touch of sweetness.
• Top with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy texture.
• Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Adjust the spices to your taste preferences – more chili powder for heat or more cumin for a smoky flavor.
• Let the chili simmer longer for even more robust flavor.
• Experiment with different types of beans like pinto or garbanzo beans.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
• Add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
• Serve with a side of cornbread or over a baked potato for a twist.

Expert Secrets:

• Slow cooking allows for all the flavors to meld together beautifully, so be patient and let it simmer for the full cooking time.
• Adjust the seasonings as needed – taste and add more chili powder, cumin, or salt as necessary.
• Use quality ingredients for the best flavor – opt for organic diced tomatoes and high-quality spices.
• Consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a rich depth of flavor.
• Stirring occasionally throughout the cooking process helps distribute the flavors evenly.
• Let the chili cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.
• Leftover chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.
• Store any extra chili in single-serve containers for easy reheating later on.
• Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking – avocado, jalapenos, or a squeeze of lime all work beautifully.
• Consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for an easy meal on a busy day.