Hearty Slow Cooker Chili: A Tex-Mex Family Favorite in 8 Hours

The Ultimate Slow Cooker Chili Recipe: A Hearty Tex-Mex Classic

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of slow cooker chili on a cool evening. This delicious recipe combines ground beef, beans, and a perfect blend of spices that simmer together all day, creating deep, rich flavors that will satisfy the whole family. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it until dinner!

Why This Crockpot Chili Recipe Works

The slow cooker method allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully while requiring minimal effort on your part. The low, slow cooking process tenderizes the beef and allows the beans to absorb all those wonderful spices without becoming mushy. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal that’s even better the next day!

Key Ingredients for Perfect Slow Cooker Chili

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio works best)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with juices
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, but balances the acidity)

Suggested Toppings

• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Sour cream
• Diced green onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Diced avocado
• Jalapeño slices
• Corn chips or tortilla strips

How to Make the Best Slow Cooker Chili

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease but leave a little for flavor.
2. Add the diced onions and green peppers to the same skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker.
4. Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
5. Stir in all the spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar if using.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop.
7. About 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
8. Serve hot in bowls with your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips for Outstanding Crockpot Chili

• Brown the beef well: Don’t skip this step! Browning creates a deep flavor base that’s essential for great chili.
• Bloom the spices: For even more flavor, add the dried spices to the beef and vegetables in the skillet for the last minute of cooking before transferring to the slow cooker. This “blooms” the spices and intensifies their flavors.
• Don’t peek! Every time you lift the slow cooker lid, you add 20-30 minutes to the cooking time as heat escapes.
• Thickness control: If your chili is too thick, add more beef broth. If it’s too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Common Questions About Slow Cooker Chili

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, many people find that chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze slow cooker chili?

Yes! This chili freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey makes a leaner alternative. You might want to add an extra tablespoon of olive oil when browning to compensate for the lower fat content.

How can I make this chili spicier?

Increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños with the other vegetables. You can also stir in some hot sauce toward the end of cooking.

Nutrition Information

The Perfect Slow Cooker Chili for Any Occasion

Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd on game day, meal prepping for a busy week ahead, or simply craving a comforting bowl of homemade goodness, this slow cooker chili recipe has you covered. The combination of tender beef, hearty beans, and aromatic spices creates a satisfying dish that gets better with every bite. Give your family the gift of coming home to the irresistible aroma of chili simmering all day in the slow cooker!

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes