Classic Slow Cooker Chili

An enticing bowl of Classic Slow Cooker Chili is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply enjoying a cozy night in. This hearty dish combines ground beef, beans, and rich tomato sauce, creating a meal that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker. With its robust flavors and tender texture, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The homemade chili seasoning brings out deep, satisfying flavors that will warm you up.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves 10, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep for the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level according to your taste.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own, with cornbread, or over rice for a hearty meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Using the right equipment ensures that everything goes smoothly and helps you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the meat and sautéing vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker.

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

• 2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp cumin powder
• 2 Tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Beans and Tomatoes

• 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans), drained and rinsed
• 30 oz diced tomatoes, with their juice
• 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis, with their juice
• 30 oz tomato sauce

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sauté for 4-5 minutes. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks until it releases its fat.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for another 4-5 minutes until tender. Then add minced garlic along with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds while stirring constantly.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), diced tomatoes and green chilies (with their juice), and tomato sauce. Stir everything together well.

Step 4: Cook Your Chili

Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Taste your chili before serving; adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm with your favorite garnishes!

How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Serving Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit any occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, this chili can be enjoyed in various ways that elevate the meal.

Top It Off

• Sour cream: A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Shredded cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully over hot chili.
• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro gives a fresh, herbal note.

Accompany with Bread

• Cornbread: Sweet, crumbly cornbread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy chips provide a great contrast to the chili’s softness.

Serve in Unique Ways

• Chili dogs: Spoon chili over hot dogs for a fun twist on classic comfort food.
• Stuffed baked potatoes: Fill baked potatoes with chili for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Perfecting your Classic Slow Cooker Chili involves a few simple tips that enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some helpful suggestions:

• Bold seasoning: Use fresh spices for maximum flavor impact.
• Brown the meat: This step adds depth and richness to your chili.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the chili to cook longer develops deeper flavors.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings before serving to achieve your ideal taste.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Pairing side dishes with Classic Slow Cooker Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Rice: A scoop of fluffy white or brown rice complements the chili’s texture.
2. Salad: A crisp green salad provides freshness and lightness alongside the hearty chili.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with spicy chili.
4. Biscuit: Flaky biscuits are perfect for dipping into the chili’s rich sauce.
5. Pickled jalapeños: These add an extra kick for those who enjoy more heat.
6. Grilled vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies offer a delicious contrast to the warm chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Classic Slow Cooker Chili from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the beef and onion enhances the flavors. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for depth.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste your chili before serving. Adjust the seasonings if needed to ensure robust flavor.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Quality matters! Use fresh vegetables and good-quality beef for the best results.
• Overloading the slow cooker: Ensure you don’t overfill. Too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking and texture.
• Ignoring cook time recommendations: Each slow cooker is different. Follow recommended times for best results, whether on high or low.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Classic Slow Cooker Chili different?

This chili features a homemade blend of spices that enhances its flavor compared to store-bought mixes.

Can I make Classic Slow Cooker Chili without meat?

Absolutely! Substitute beans or lentils for ground beef to create a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does Classic Slow Cooker Chili last?

When stored properly, it can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I customize my Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

Yes! Feel free to add more vegetables, adjust spiciness, or swap beans based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust its spiciness level. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike!

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Classic Slow Cooker Chili

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• Author: Leslie
• Total Time: 34 minute
• Yield: About 10 people 1x

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Description

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a warm and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from game days to cozy family dinners. This hearty meal features a delicious blend of lean ground beef, beans, and rich tomato sauce, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. With its robust flavors and easy preparation, this chili recipe is bound to become a staple in your home. Customize it with your favorite toppings or enjoy it on its own for a comforting bowl of goodness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lb lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 15 oz can black beans
• 30 oz kidney beans
• 30 oz diced tomatoes
• 30 oz tomato sauce
• Chili seasoning (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano)
• Salt and pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for about 4-5 minutes until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for another 4-5 minutes until tender. Stir in minced garlic and spices; cook for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Transfer the beef mixture into a slow cooker and add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato sauce. Mix well.
4. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
5. Taste before serving; adjust seasoning as necessary.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours on low (or 4 hours on high)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: About 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider garnishing with sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro. You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting beans or lentils for the ground beef.