Diced tomatoes (with juices): 15 oz can
Kidney beans: 15 oz can, drained and rinsed
Black beans: 15 oz can, drained and rinsed
Beef or chicken broth: 1 cup
Chili powder: 2 tablespoons
Ground cumin: 1 tablespoon
Paprika: 1 teaspoon
Oregano: 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper: To taste
Red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional, for heat)
Optional Additions
Corn: 1 cup, for a touch of sweetness
Bell peppers: 1 cup diced, for added texture
Cocoa powder: 1 teaspoon, for depth of flavor
Beer: ½ cup, for a unique richness
Toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or jalapeño slices
Tips for Success
Brown the meat first: Searing the ground beef or turkey before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor and texture.
Don’t skip the spices: Toasting the spices in the pan with the meat releases their full aroma.
Layer ingredients wisely: Place harder vegetables like onions and peppers on the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.
Adjust heat levels: Customize the spiciness by varying the amount of chili powder, red pepper flakes, or adding fresh chili peppers.
Let it simmer: Cooking on low for 6-8 hours brings out the best flavors.
Instructions
Brown the meat: In a skillet, cook ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, cook the diced onion and garlic until softened.
Combine ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the browned meat, sautéed aromatics, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, broth, and spices. Stir well to combine.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.
Description
This slow cooker chili is hearty, robust, and packed with layers of flavor. The tender ground meat, creamy beans, and rich tomato base are elevated by a warm blend of spices. Each bite offers a comforting combination of savory, smoky, and slightly tangy notes, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving, based on 8 servings)
Calories: 320
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 580mg
Conclusion and Recommendation
Slow cooker chili is a versatile and hearty meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining. Its slow-cooked richness and customizable ingredients ensure it satisfies every palate. Pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete, comforting meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken, and opt for low-sodium beans and broth. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding zucchini or carrots. This healthier approach maintains the dish’s comforting qualities while making it more nutrient-dense.
Savor the warmth and flavor of this slow cooker chili—it’s a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl!
