Slow Cooker Chili
Looking for an easy and delicious comfort food recipe? Look no further than this hearty Slow Cooker Chili! Packed with flavor and perfect for those chilly nights, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, 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 topped with your favorite chili toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, and green onions.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g
Get ready to warm up with a bowl of this delicious Slow Cooker Chili! Don’t forget to save this recipe for later and share it with your friends who love a good bowl of chili. Enjoy!
Popular questions:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a healthier option. - Can I add more vegetables to this chili?
Feel free to add diced bell peppers, carrots, or celery for added flavor and nutrition. - Can I make this chili spicy?
You can increase the amount of chili powder or add additional spices like cayenne pepper for extra heat. - Can I freeze leftover chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well. Simply store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - Can I use different beans?
You can customize this recipe by using your favorite beans such as pinto beans or garbanzo beans. - Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Simply omit the ground beef and use extra beans or tofu as a meatless alternative. - Can I double the recipe?
You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch of chili, just make sure your slow cooker can accommodate the extra volume. - Can I cook this chili on the stovetop?
You can simmer the chili on the stovetop for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. - Can I substitute water for beef broth?
You can use water as a substitute for beef broth, but you may need to adjust the seasoning to taste. - Can I add corn to this chili?
You can add canned or frozen corn kernels for a sweet and crunchy addition.
Helpful tips:
- For a richer flavor, brown the ground beef with onions and garlic before adding to the slow cooker.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
- Top your chili with avocado slices, tortilla strips, or jalapenos for added texture and color.
- Serve the chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal.
- For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last hour of cooking to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, adding more chili powder or cumin as needed.
- Make this chili ahead of time and reheat for an easy weeknight dinner or game day snack.
- Store leftover chili in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients such as corn, bell peppers, or different types of beans.
- Experiment with different toppings like Greek yogurt, pickled jalapenos, or crushed tortilla chips for a fun twist on traditional chili.
Expert Secrets:
- Cook the onions until they are translucent before adding the ground beef for a sweeter and more flavorful base.
- Add a splash of coffee or dark beer for a depth of flavor and richness in your chili.
- Toast the spices in a dry skillet before adding them to the chili for a more intense aroma and taste.
- Simmer the chili on low for an extended period of time to allow the flavors to meld together and develop complexity.
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor or add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a spicy kick.
- For a healthier version, use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of beef and increase the amount of vegetables in the chili.
- Garnish the chili with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness and color.
- Experiment with different types of beans such as cannellini beans, chickpeas, or lentils for unique texture and flavor combinations.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of lime juice right before serving for a tangy contrast to the rich chili flavors.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings and spices to suit your personal taste preferences, making each batch of chili your own special creation.