Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe for Busy Weeknights
Nothing beats a warm bowl of chili after a long, busy day! This easy Crockpot chili recipe is the perfect solution for weeknights when you want something hearty, delicious, and effortless to make. Just toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a mouth-watering, flavorful chili that the whole family will love. Minimal prep, maximum flavor!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this tasty chili. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so you might already have them on hand!
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 can of tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, jalapeños
Pro Tip: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to your chili.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Brown the Ground Meat – In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) until browned. Drain any excess fat and transfer it to the Crockpot.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings – Add chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to coat the vegetables and meat with seasonings.
Pro Tip: To save time, you can also add raw ground meat directly to the Crockpot, but browning it first brings out more flavor.
Step 2: Add Beans and Tomatoes
Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the Crockpot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Set and Forget
Cover your Crockpot and set it to Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours. The longer the chili cooks, the more flavorful it becomes, allowing all the spices to blend beautifully.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once your chili is done cooking, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it hot with your favorite toppings!
Perfect Pairings and Topping Ideas
Elevate your bowl of chili with some tasty toppings and side pairings:
- Shredded cheese – for a creamy, cheesy layer on top
- Sour cream – to add a touch of cool creaminess
- Chopped green onions – for a fresh, mild bite
- Tortilla chips or cornbread – perfect for scooping and dipping
Pro Tip: For a hearty chili variation, add a cup of corn kernels or some chopped zucchini during the last hour of cooking.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weeknights
This Crockpot chili recipe is all about convenience without sacrificing flavor. Here’s why it’s a go-to for busy nights:
- Hands-off Cooking – Just prep, set, and forget. The Crockpot does all the work while you handle your day.
- Hearty and Nutritious – Packed with protein from the beans and meat and loaded with vitamins from the veggies.
- Customizable – Adjust spices, add extra veggies, or try a different protein for variety.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
This chili stores well and even tastes better the next day!
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe bags or containers.
When you’re ready to eat, just reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
With this easy Crockpot chili recipe, you’ll have a cozy, filling meal without the fuss. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen all day and the simplicity of having dinner ready right when you need it!
