Classic Slow Cooker Chili

An easy and delicious Classic Slow Cooker Chili is perfect for cozy nights in, game days, or potlucks. This flavorful dish features tender beef, hearty beans, and a rich tomato base that all come together seamlessly in your slow cooker. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit anyone’s taste—just the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on hand!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chili Base
• For Beans and Tomatoes
• For Garnish
• How to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Step 1: Brown the Beef
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
• Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
• Step 5: Cook the Chili
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Toppings
• Accompaniments
• How to Perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Best Side Dishes for Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Reheating Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this Classic Slow Cooker Chili recipe special?
• Can I customize my Classic Slow Cooker Chili?
• How long does Classic Slow Cooker Chili take to cook?
• What toppings go well with Classic Slow Cooker Chili?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply sauté the ingredients, combine them in the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and simmering time enhances the chili’s taste, making it incredibly satisfying.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or meal prep for the week ahead.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and lean beef, this chili is wholesome and nourishing.
• Easily Customizable: Adjust spices, add extra vegetables, or swap proteins to suit your dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this Classic Slow Cooker Chili recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having these essentials will ensure smooth cooking and delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for hands-free cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing the overall flavor of your chili.
• Spatula: Perfect for breaking up ground beef while cooking and mixing ingredients evenly.

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 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

PIN THIS!

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. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks until it releases its fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for another 4-5 minutes until tender. Next, 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: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), diced tomatoes with green chilis (with their juice), and tomato sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Cook the Chili

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

Step 6: Serve

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

How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Serving Classic Slow Cooker Chili is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it a satisfying meal. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for a creamy finish.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast to the chili’s spices.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a crunchy texture and a pop of color.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices can elevate the dish with their smooth flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds freshness and brightness to each serving.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread pairs perfectly with chili for dipping.
• Rice: Serve the chili over rice to create a hearty meal that soaks up all the flavors.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips can be used for scooping up chili, adding a delightful crunch.
• Salad: A light salad balances the richness of the chili with fresh greens and vegetables.

How to Perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Perfecting your Classic Slow Cooker Chili involves attention to detail and a few important tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your chili game.

• Use Quality Meat: Choosing lean ground beef ensures your chili is both flavorful and not too greasy.
• Brown the Beef Well: Sautéing the beef until browned adds depth to the overall flavor.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allowing your chili to simmer for several hours enhances its richness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste before serving; you may want to tweak the spices based on your preference.
• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans for added texture and flavor variety.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Pairing side dishes with Classic Slow Cooker Chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this hearty dish.

1. Cornbread: A classic companion that’s easy to make and perfect for soaking up chili juices.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf adds substance and is great at balancing the chili’s spiciness.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides an aromatic addition and perfect for scooping up every bite.
4. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that contrasts beautifully with rich chili flavors.
5. Baked Potatoes: Serving chili over baked potatoes creates a filling dish that’s comforting and delicious.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies add a healthy touch while complementing the robust flavors of the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Classic Slow Cooker Chili, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor or texture of your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your chili turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the ground beef first can lead to a greasy texture. Always sauté the beef until browned for richer flavors.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Adding all ingredients without tasting can result in bland chili. Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
• Overloading the Slow Cooker: Packing too many ingredients in the slow cooker can prevent proper cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for the chili to simmer effectively.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap canned goods or spices can compromise flavor. Opt for high-quality tomatoes and fresh spices for a better outcome.
• Not Planning Ahead: Forgetting to prepare in advance leads to rushed cooking times. Take time to prep ingredients so everything is ready when you start.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Classic Slow Cooker Chili can last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze portions for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Classic Slow Cooker Chili recipe special?

This recipe combines savory ground beef with beans and homemade seasoning for a rich flavor profile that appeals to chili lovers.

Can I customize my Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables, different types of beans, or even spices like cayenne pepper for extra heat.

How long does Classic Slow Cooker Chili take to cook?

Cooking time varies; it typically takes 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low in the slow cooker.

What toppings go well with Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

Consider garnishing with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give this simple recipe a try and enjoy its comforting flavors at your next gathering!

---