Chili cooked in a crockpot is the ultimate comfort food! With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish warms you from the inside out. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this crockpot chili recipe is simple to prepare and full of delicious surprises. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the enticing aroma filling your kitchen. Get ready to serve up a bowl of happiness!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 4 hours on high in the crockpot.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of this chili contains approximately 300 calories, 20g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Brown the ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat, draining the fat.
2. Transfer the meat to the crockpot.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the crockpot.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and all the beans.
5. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
7. Cover the crockpot with the lid.
8. Set the cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
9. Stir occasionally if possible to meld the flavors.
10. Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. You can also swap canned beans for dried beans, just ensure they are cooked before adding them to the crockpot.
Serving and Pairings
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added flavor. A fresh salad on the side complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip browning the meat; it adds depth of flavor.
– Avoid overcooking; check the chili occasionally.
– Don’t underestimate seasoning; taste as you go!
– Use low-sodium canned goods to control salt levels.
– Don’t forget to stir occasionally for even cooking.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance flavor.
– Let the chili sit for a few minutes before serving for better texture.
– Experiment with spices to customize heat levels.
– Make it a day ahead for deeper flavors.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the meat with additional beans or lentils and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix before cooking for an extra kick.
Is it possible to cook chili overnight?
Yes, if your crockpot has a timer, you can set it to cook on low overnight and enjoy it in the morning.
Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, you can use frozen beans and vegetables, but ensure they are thawed for even cooking.
What toppings work best?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, cilantro, avocado, and sour cream, which enhance the overall flavor of the chili.
Conclusion
This crockpot chili recipe is not only easy to make but also delivers a delicious, hearty meal perfect for any occasion. With a blend of savory ingredients, each bowl is a warming delight. Enjoy the rich flavors and the comfort of a home-cooked meal with minimal effort!
Crockpot Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 28 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 6 oz tomato paste
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese sour cream, green onions
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat, draining the fat.
- Transfer the meat to the crockpot.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the crockpot.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and all the beans.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid.
- Set the cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Stir occasionally if possible to meld the flavors.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Nutrition
