Slow Cooker Hearty Beef And Bean Chile
A hearty, flavorful chili with beef and beans, slow-cooked to perfection. Ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with a rich, smoky taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned. Pour off excess fat.
- Combine cooked beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato soup, diced tomatoes, water, red kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin in a 3.5-quart slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of brown sugar. If you're looking for a lighter option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey. You can also use canned black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans if you prefer. Don't hesitate to adjust the chili powder to your taste for a milder or spicier kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty beef and bean chile with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. You can also top it with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for an extra burst of flavor. This dish is perfect for gatherings and game day, alongside other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chile can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Freezing is also an option; just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Slow Cooker Hearty Beef And Bean Chile contains roughly 854 calories, with 39g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), and calcium (89% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 828mg per serving (36% 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 use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust as needed for a thoroughly cooked dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or serve with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra spice.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or additional beans, and use vegetable broth instead of water. This will maintain the hearty texture while making it suitable for vegetarians.
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).