Slow Cooker Spicy Chili Recipe: Hearty Beef Comfort in a Bowl

Spicy Chili Recipe Overview

If you’re craving a comforting dinner with a fiery twist, this spicy chili recipe will hit the spot. Slow-cooked to perfection, it blends hearty ground beef, kidney beans, chili powder, and cayenne pepper into a bowl of pure satisfaction.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 4 hours 10 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 10 servings

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (15-oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28-oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the diced onion and chopped bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for 1 minute.
3. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours (or HIGH for 2–3 hours) until flavors meld.
6. Give the chili a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve piping hot with your favorite toppings.

Serving & Topping Ideas

• Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• Chopped scallions or cilantro
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt dollop
• Crunchy tortilla chips or cornbread on the side

Pro Tips for the Best Spicy Chili Recipe

• Layer your spices: Toast chili powder in the skillet for a minute to unlock deeper flavor.
• Adjust the heat: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra kick without overpowering the chili.
• Bean swap: Replace kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans for variation.
• Make ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge and reheat gently.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping, this slow cooker spicy chili recipe delivers a hearty, comforting American classic with a spicy kick that everyone will love.