Introduction

This classic slow cooker chili is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for busy days. Combining tender ground beef with a blend of beans, tomatoes, and warming spices, it simmers to perfection with minimal effort. It’s ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Classic Slow Cooker Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
1 large onion (diced)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
2 tsp cumin powder
2 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
15 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed)
30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans, drained and rinsed)
30 oz diced tomatoes (with their juice)
10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis (with their juice)
30 oz tomato sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the ground beef until it releases its fat, about 4-5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
Step 2: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and seasonings—cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release the flavors. Transfer this mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the drained and rinsed beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice, and tomato sauce to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth, add a splash of beer or coffee to the slow cooker before cooking.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add diced bell peppers or corn for additional texture and sweetness.
For a spicier chili, include chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.

Storage

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Chili also freezes well—place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this chili without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can simmer the chili on the stovetop over low heat for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the flavors develop and the chili thickens.

Do I need to rinse canned beans before adding them?

Rinsing canned beans helps reduce excess sodium and removes the canning liquid, which can affect the chili’s texture and flavor. It’s recommended to rinse and drain beans before using.

Classic Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 87 reviews

This Classic Slow Cooker Chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Combining lean ground beef, a variety of beans, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices, this chili simmers slowly to develop deep, rich flavors. It’s an easy, comforting meal that can be prepared in advance and left to cook all day in your slow cooker, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Author: Dylan
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours on High or 6-8 hours on Low
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

2 lb lean Ground Beef (90/10 or 93/7)
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced

Spices and Seasonings

2 tsp cumin powder
2 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper

Beans and Tomatoes

15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans), drained and rinsed
30 oz diced tomatoes with their juice
10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis with their juice
30 oz tomato sauce

Instructions

Brown the Beef: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring and breaking the beef apart with a spatula until it releases its fat and is lightly browned.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and all the seasonings — cumin powder, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release the flavors.
Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked beef mixture into a 6-quart slow cooker.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Into the slow cooker, add the drained and rinsed black beans and kidney beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, diced tomatoes with green chilis, and tomato sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
Cook the Chili: Cook on high heat setting for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the chili to simmer and the flavors to meld.
Final Seasoning and Serving: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished as desired with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Notes

For a spicier chili, add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Beans can be replaced or combined with other varieties like pinto or navy beans.
Serve chili with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Keywords: slow cooker chili, classic chili recipe, ground beef chili, easy chili, slow cooker recipes, stew, comforting meals