Go Back
Crockpot Chili Recipe Easy, Hearty Slow Cooker Meal for Cozy Nights

Crockpot Chili

A hearty, slow‑cooked chili that delivers deep, rich flavor with minimal effort — perfect for busy days and comforting dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey lean
  • 2 cans beans (kidney, black, or pinto) drained and rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • salt and pepper to taste
Optional Flavor Boosters
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder optional
  • 1/2 cup dark beer or coffee optional substitute for some liquid
  • 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce optional
  • 1 tsp brown sugar or molasses optional

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add to the slow cooker.
  3. Add drained beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the slow cooker.
  4. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  5. If using, add optional flavor boosters like cocoa powder, beer or coffee, chipotle, and brown sugar.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
  7. Once cooked, ladle the chili into bowls and serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.

Notes

Feel free to customize your Crockpot Chili with your favorite ingredients and heat level.