Slow Cooker Chili – Easy and Flavorful Comfort Soup

Discover a hearty slow cooker chili recipe perfect for cozy meals. Simple steps and rich flavors make this chili a go-to comfort food.

Why You’ll Love It

This slow cooker chili is the ultimate comfort food: warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this chili offers satisfying richness with every spoonful. The slow cooking allows spices and ingredients to meld perfectly, making it tastier with time. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized to suit your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (substitute with plant-based meat or lentils for vegan option)
• 1 onion, chopped (yellow, white, or red will all work)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh gives best flavor, but jarred works)
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted tomatoes add smokiness)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (black beans or pinto beans are great swaps)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth (or water if needed)
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, but recommended)
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan, sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. Transfer the meat and onion mixture to your slow cooker.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir everything well to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. Stir occasionally if you can during cooking.
7. Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Expert Tips

Use lean ground meat to reduce greasiness, or go plant-based for a vegetarian chili. If your chili is too thick, stir in a little broth or water to loosen it. For a deeper flavor, let it rest for 30 minutes before serving. Make this chili ahead in the morning, and you’ll have a perfect meal ready at dinnertime.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze chili in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or microwave.

Variations

• Vegan: Skip the meat and use extra beans or lentils. Use vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your broth and chili powder are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Simply omit dairy toppings or use coconut-based alternatives.
• Spice Level: Adjust or omit cayenne pepper for a milder version.

FAQ

Can I make slow cooker chili without meat?

Yes! You can substitute meat with beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles for a delicious vegetarian chili.

How long does slow cooker chili take to cook?

Typically, it cooks for 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high, allowing flavors to blend perfectly.

What is the best way to reheat slow cooker chili?

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Is slow cooker chili healthy?

It can be! Using lean meat or plant-based protein and plenty of beans keeps it nutritious and filling.

Can I freeze leftovers of this chili?

Absolutely. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months for best quality.

If you tried this slow cooker chili, please leave a comment below! We’d love to hear your tips, favorite variations, or how it turned out. Don’t forget to save and share this cozy comfort food recipe.