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Slow Cooker Chili Recipe (Hearty and Easy!)

Slow Cooker Chili

Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience: Slow Cooker Chili! This hearty dish is perfect for chilly days, game nights, or simply when you're craving something warm and delicious. Made with tender ground beef (or turkey), a medley of beans, and a rich, flavorful broth, this chili is not just easy to prepare but also deeply satisfying.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chili
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 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 (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 bell pepper bell pepper diced

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large Skillet
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Chopping Board and Knife
  • Can Opener
  • Serving Bowls and Utensils

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef (or turkey). Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is starting to brown, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your chili from becoming greasy.
  2. Step 2: Carefully transfer the cooked meat mixture into your slow cooker. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for your chili.
  3. Step 3: Next, add the drained kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the slow cooker. These ingredients will contribute to the chili's hearty texture and deep flavor.
  4. Step 4: Add 2 cups of beef broth to the slow cooker. This liquid will help to cook the ingredients evenly and create a delicious, rich sauce.
  5. Step 5: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). These spices are what give your chili its distinctive flavor, so don’t skip this step!
  6. Step 6: Finally, stir in the diced bell pepper. Once everything is combined, cover the slow cooker with its lid.
  7. Step 7: Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors will meld together.
  8. Step 8: Once the cooking time is up, serve your Slow Cooker Chili hot. It can be enjoyed as is or garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce when you’re mixing in your spices.