If you are searching for the best Crock-Pot chili, this slow cooker classic delivers rich flavor, hearty texture, and easy preparation all in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or cozy weekends, this chili simmers low and slow to build a deep, satisfying flavor the whole family will love.
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Why You’ll Love This Best Crock pot Chili
This recipe checks every box for a dependable, crowd-pleasing meal. It is simple to prepare, uses everyday pantry ingredients, and turns out consistently delicious every time.
First, the slow cooker does most of the work. Once the beef is browned and everything is added, you can walk away and let the flavors develop naturally. Second, the balance of spices creates a bold chili taste without being overpowering. It is flavorful but still family-friendly.
You will also appreciate how versatile this chili is. Serve it on its own, over baked potatoes, with cornbread, or as a topping for hot dogs or nachos. It stores well, freezes beautifully, and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients for Best Crock pot Chili
Main Ingredients
- 2 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth, optional for thinner chili
- 1 can (15 oz) dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Chili Seasoning Blend
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or ground chicken can replace the beef. For extra depth, use a mix of beef and ground turkey. If pork is ever mentioned in similar recipes, substitute with ground turkey or extra beef to keep it family friendly.
If you want to avoid added sugar, you may reduce or omit it. The sugar simply balances acidity from the tomatoes and spices. For extra vegetables, diced bell peppers or zucchini can be added without changing the cooking time.
If alcohol is used in other chili recipes, replace it with beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened and lightly translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Sauce
Pour the diced tomatoes with green chilies and tomato sauce into the slow cooker. Add the beef broth if you prefer a slightly thinner chili. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Season the Chili
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, coriander, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly so the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chili.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours. This slow cooking time allows the flavors to deepen and the chili to thicken naturally.
Step 6: Add the Beans
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the kidney beans. Cover and continue cooking until the beans are heated through.
Step 7: Taste and Serve
Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Pro Tips for Success
- Browning the beef first is essential for flavor. Do not skip this step.
- Use good quality chili powder since it is the dominant spice.
- Let the chili rest for 10 to 15 minutes after cooking for thicker texture.
- Add beans near the end to prevent them from becoming overly soft.
- For thicker chili, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last 30 minutes.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Chili: Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or extra chili powder.
- Smoky Chili: Add smoked paprika or a small amount of chipotle powder.
- Bean Loaded Chili: Add black beans or pinto beans alongside the kidney beans.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in corn, bell peppers, or diced carrots.
- Lower Carb: Reduce beans and add more ground meat or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This Best Crockpot Chili is incredibly versatile. Serve it in bowls with classic toppings for a comforting meal. Spoon it over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes for a hearty dinner. It also works well as a topping for hot dogs, burgers, or nachos.
For side dishes, cornbread, dinner rolls, or tortilla chips are excellent choices. A simple green salad or coleslaw adds a fresh contrast to the rich chili.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Allow the chili to cool completely before storing. Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To freeze, place cooled chili in freezer safe containers or zip top bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Best Crock-Pot Chili
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A rich, hearty slow cooker chili made with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and a bold blend of spices simmered to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth, optional
- 1 can (15 oz) dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chopped onion until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Transfer the onion and garlic to the crockpot.
- In the same skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain excess grease.
- Add the cooked beef to the crockpot.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth if using.
- Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, coriander, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours.
- Stir in the kidney beans during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, brown the beef first and allow the chili to rest briefly before serving to thicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~415 |
| Protein | ~32 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~38 g |
| Fat | ~14 g |
| Fiber | ~8 g |
| Sodium | ~980 mg |
Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Best Crockpot Chili
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili is perfect for making ahead. In fact, the flavors improve after resting overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
You can cook it on high for about 3 to 4 hours, but low heat is recommended for the best flavor forcing spices to blend more slowly.
How do I thicken chili if it is too thin?
Let it cook uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes. You can also mash a small portion of the beans and stir them back in.
Is this chili freezer friendly?
Absolutely. This recipe freezes very well and is ideal for meal prep. Freeze in portion sized containers for easy reheating.
Can I make this chili without beans?
Yes. Simply omit the beans and add extra ground beef or vegetables. Cooking time remains the same.
Final Thoughts
This Best Crockpot Chili is a reliable, comforting recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you are feeding a crowd or preparing meals for the week, this slow cooker chili is a proven favorite that never disappoints. Once you try it, it is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.