Slow Cooker Hearty Chili (Print Version)

Hearty beef and bean chili with tomatoes and spices simmers all day for effortless comfort food.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1 pound ground beef

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced

→ Beans & Legumes

05 - 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
06 - 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed

→ Tomatoes & Liquids

07 - 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
08 - 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
09 - 1 cup beef broth

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 2 tablespoons chili powder
11 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
14 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
15 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
16 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat. This step is optional but recommended for enhanced flavor development.
02 - Transfer cooked beef, diced onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, drained kidney beans, drained black beans, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
03 - Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper into the slow cooker.
04 - Stir all ingredients until well combined, ensuring even distribution of spices throughout.
05 - Cover slow cooker and cook on LOW setting for 6-8 hours, or alternatively on HIGH setting for 3-4 hours.
06 - Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
07 - Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Optional garnishes include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Minimal Prep: Only 15 minutes of active preparation required before the slow cooker takes over.
  • Hearty & Healthy: High in protein (28g) and naturally gluten-free if you check your labels.
  • Versatile: Easy to adapt for vegetarians or to adjust the heat level to your preference.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe yields 6 servings and leftovers freeze exceptionally well.
02 -
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, making this an ideal make-ahead meal.
  • Allergen Safety: Always double-check ingredient labels on beef broth and canned tomatoes to ensure they are gluten-free and soy-free.
  • Flavor Balance: If the chili is too thick after cooking, add a splash more beef broth until your desired consistency is reached.
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