Favorite Slow Cooker Chili
A hearty, flavorful slow cooker chili with ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for cozy gatherings and satisfying meals with bold, warming flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck and drain the fat.
- Put all ingredients in the slow cooker in the order listed.
- Stir once to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 10 to 12 hours or on high for 5 to 6 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce. If you're short on time, precooked ground beef can be used instead of browning fresh meat. Feel free to substitute kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans based on your preference. Adjust the chili powder according to your spice tolerance, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or sour cream. It pairs beautifully with warm cornbread or a side of Pear, Endive And Pecan Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it over rice or with tortilla chips for added texture. This dish is perfect for game day gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion the chili into freezer-safe containers and it can last for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Slow Cooker Chili contains roughly 1537 calories, with 110g protein, 186g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (244% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and protein (221% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1916mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground chuck with lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
How can I thicken the chili if it's too watery?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it in, allowing it to cook until thickened.
What toppings go well with this chili?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, diced onions, jalapeños, sour cream, and avocado. You can also try adding crushed tortilla chips for crunch or a dollop of guacamole for creaminess. For a sweet touch, consider serving it alongside a slice of warmed cornbread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).