Crock Pot Chili is the kind of dish that fills your home with the warm, inviting smell of spices and simmered goodness all day long. It’s packed with hearty beans, tender ground beef, and a nice mix of tomatoes and peppers that come together slowly in the crock pot to create a bowl of comfort. The best part is how easy it is to prepare—just toss everything in, set it, and let the crock pot do the work.
I love making Crock Pot Chili on busy days when I don’t have time to stir a pot on the stove. It’s so satisfying to come home to the aroma of a meal that’s been cooking all afternoon. I usually add a little extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce if I’m feeling bold, but you can always keep it mild for the whole family. It’s a flexible recipe that feels like a warm hug in a bowl!
Serving this chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice makes for a filling meal that everyone enjoys. I also like topping mine with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh chopped green onions for a little extra flavor and texture. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers because it’s simple, tasty, and so easy to share.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein and adds richness. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use extra beans or lentils instead.
Beans: Kidney beans add texture and fiber. If you don’t have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans work well too. Just make sure to rinse canned beans to cut down on salt and preserve flavor.
Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce: Both help create the thick, tasty base. If you want a chunkier chili, use diced tomatoes with mild green chilies. Crushed tomatoes can be a good substitute for sauce.
Chili Powder & Spices: These give chili its warm, spicy flavor. If you don’t have chili powder, use a mix of paprika, cumin, and a little cayenne pepper. Adjust heat to your taste.
How Can I Make the Best Chili in a Crock Pot?
The key to great crock pot chili is layering flavors and slow cooking to let everything meld together.
- Brown the meat first: Cooking ground beef with onions and garlic adds depth and removes extra fat.
- Use low heat: Cooking on low for 6-8 hours develops the richest flavor and tender beans.
- Don’t lift the lid: Opening the crock pot lets heat escape, increasing cooking time. Stir only if needed.
- Season to taste at the end: Slow cookers can mellow spices, so taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet – I use it to brown the ground beef, which adds flavor and removes excess fat.
- Crock Pot – The main tool for slow cooking the chili, making it hands-off and easy.
- Can opener – To open the beans, tomatoes, and tomato sauce quickly.
- Measuring spoons and cups – For accurate spice and liquid amounts.
- Stirring spoon or spatula – To mix everything together in the crock pot.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add spices: Mix in cinnamon or cocoa powder for a richer, smokier flavor.
- Include vegetables: Chop in bell peppers, corn, or diced zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
- Different proteins: Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or vegetarian crumbles for variety.
- Top toppings: Finish with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
How to Make Crock Pot Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crock pot chili recipe requires about 10-15 minutes of prep time to brown meat and chop ingredients. Then, it slow cooks for 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. This hands-off cooking gives the flavors plenty of time to blend together beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat and Sauté Veggies:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep your chili from being greasy.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
Transfer the cooked beef mixture into your crock pot. Add drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Pour in the beef broth or water.
3. Cook the Chili:
Stir everything together well to combine. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If you can, give it a gentle stir once or twice during cooking to keep flavors evenly mixed.
4. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste your chili and add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you like it spicier. Serve in bowls topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a spoonful of sour cream, and chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it first! Thaw frozen ground beef in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cook it immediately after thawing to ensure safety and best texture.
Can I Make Crock Pot Chili Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chili and let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Cool leftover chili completely and keep it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying it again.
Can I Add More Vegetables or Use Different Beans?
Yes! Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also swap kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or a mix depending on your taste preferences.
