Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Why Make This Recipe

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, as you can simply set it and forget it. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, enjoying a cozy night in, or need a meal for busy weekdays, this chili is the ideal choice. Plus, it fills your home with a warm and inviting aroma that makes everyone excited for dinner.

How to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 medium onions (chopped finely, about 2 cups)
• 1 red bell pepper (cut into 1/2 inch cubes)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
• 1/4 cup chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 pounds 85% lean ground beef
• 1 can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed, 15 ounces each)
• 1 can pinto beans (drained and rinsed, 15 ounces each)
• 28 ounces diced tomatoes with juice
• 28 ounces tomato puree

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, coriander, pepper flakes, oregano, and cayenne. Cook while stirring until the vegetables soften and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Increase heat to medium-high and add half the beef. Cook while breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until it’s no longer pink and just starting to brown, about 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Add the remaining beef and cook, breaking it up, until no longer pink, another 3 to 4 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into the crockpot.
6. Add the beans, tomatoes, tomato puree, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the crockpot. Stir everything to combine.
7. Cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Serve your chili hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or avocado. It goes well with bread, cornbread, or over rice for a filling meal. You can also offer tortilla chips on the side for some crunch.

How to Store Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Adjust the spices to suit your taste; if you like spicier chili, add more red pepper flakes or cayenne.
• For a thicker chili, reduce the amount of tomato puree.
• You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition.

Variation

You can customize this chili by adding different beans, such as black beans or chickpeas. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a combination of beans and skip the meat entirely.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this chili ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chili a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stove or in the crockpot before serving.

Q: Is this chili spicy?
A: The spice level can be adjusted based on your preferences. Use less cayenne pepper or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder chili.

Q: Can I cook it on high if I don’t have time for low?
A: Yes, you can cook it on high for 4-5 hours if you’re short on time, but low cooking enhances the flavors.

Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Classic Slow Cooker Chili!

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