Here’s a mouthwatering crockpot chili recipe that will warm your soul. Perfect for chilly evenings or game-day gatherings, this dish is rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor. It’s easy to prepare and lets your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy your day. Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful 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) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of this crockpot chili contains approximately:
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 8g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet; sauté until softened.
- Transfer the meat and vegetables to the crockpot.
- Add the drained beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the crockpot.
- Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything well to combine.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir occasionally if possible, and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Once cooked, serve hot with your favorite toppings.
- Enjoy your hearty bowl of chili!
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option. Additionally, use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies for added flavor, or swap beans for lentils for a different texture.
Serving and Pairings
This delicious chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice. Top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store 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 until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking may lead to mushy beans—stick to the recommended cooking times.
- Not browning the meat can result in less flavor; always brown first.
- Skip the salt until the end to avoid over-salting.
- Using dried beans instead of canned can alter the texture.
- Not tasting before serving may lead to an unseasoned dish.
Helpful Tips
- Let the chili sit for an hour after cooking for flavors to meld.
- Use fresh herbs as a garnish for added freshness.
- Experiment with spices like smoked paprika for unique flavors.
- Adjust spiciness by adding hot sauce or jalapeños.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the meat with plant-based protein or additional beans to make it vegetarian.
How can I thicken the chili?
To thicken the chili, you can mash some of the beans or add cornmeal.
Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers and onions; just add them directly to the crockpot without thawing.
What toppings work best with chili?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and fresh cilantro.
How long does chili last in the fridge?
Chili can last up to 4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This crockpot chili recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days, it delivers comfort and flavor that everyone will love. Gather your ingredients, set your crockpot, and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home as it cooks!
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 diced tomatoes
- 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet; sauté until softened.
- Transfer the meat and vegetables to the crockpot.
- Add the drained beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the crockpot.
- Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything well to combine.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir occasionally if possible, and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Once cooked, serve hot with your favorite toppings.
- Enjoy your hearty bowl of chili!