Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively game day gathering. This easy slow cooker chili combines lean ground beef, hearty beans, and rich tomato sauce, creating a robust flavor that simmers beautifully in your slow cooker. With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chili Base
• For the Beans and Tomatoes
• For Garnish
• How to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
• Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
• Step 3: Cook Your Chili
• Step 4: Serve Warm
• How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• With Toppings
• As a Chili Bar
• In a Bread Bowl
• How to Perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Best Side Dishes for Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Reheating Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes this Classic Slow Cooker Chili unique?
• Can I customize my Classic Slow Cooker Chili?
• How spicy is this Classic Slow Cooker Chili?
• How long does it take to make Classic Slow Cooker Chili?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of homemade chili seasoning and slow cooking ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving at parties, potlucks, or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields 10 servings, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or meal prepping for the week.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust spices or add your favorite toppings to make this chili your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth cooking. Having the right equipment makes all the difference when preparing Classic Slow Cooker Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for achieving tender beef and developing deep flavors over several hours.
• Large skillet: Allows for sautéing meat and vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Spatula: Useful for breaking up the ground beef during cooking and mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

• 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

For the 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and sauté for 4-5 minutes until it releases its fat. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for another 4-5 minutes until tender.
4. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds while stirring constantly.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the beef mixture from the skillet to a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), diced tomatoes and green chilis (with their juice), and tomato sauce into the slow cooker.
3. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Cook Your Chili

1. Cover your slow cooker lid securely.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.
3. Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Once cooked to perfection, serve your Classic Slow Cooker Chili warm with optional garnishes like fresh parsley or shredded cheese! Enjoy!

How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Serving Classic Slow Cooker Chili can elevate your meal experience. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance the flavors and presentation of your dish.

With Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Add a generous sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack for creaminess.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy finish that balances the spice.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions bring a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the chili’s heat and adds healthy fats.

As a Chili Bar

• Cornbread Muffins: Offer cornbread muffins on the side for dipping and soaking up the chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Provide crispy tortilla chips for an added crunch and fun scooping option.
• Hot Sauce Selection: Set out various hot sauces for guests to customize their spice level.

In a Bread Bowl

• Bread Bowls: Serve your chili in hollowed-out bread bowls for a unique and edible presentation.

How to Perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili

To make your Classic Slow Cooker Chili truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality meats to enhance flavor.
• Brown the Beef First: Browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth and richness.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Start with the suggested spices, then taste and adjust as needed during cooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for 15-20 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Pairing your Classic Slow Cooker Chili with delicious sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some top choices:

1. Cornbread: A sweet, buttery cornbread perfectly complements the spiciness of chili.
2. Rice: Serve white or brown rice underneath your chili for heartiness and texture.
3. Salad: A fresh green salad offers a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty chili.
4. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds freshness and balances flavors nicely.
5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a cool touch that pairs well with spicy dishes.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The melt-in-your-mouth cheese is fantastic when dipped into chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can help you make the best Classic Slow Cooker Chili. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using low-quality meat: Low-quality ground beef can result in a greasy chili. Choose lean beef (90/10 or 93/7) for the best flavor and texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each batch of chili can taste different. Always taste your chili before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for optimal flavor.
• Not sautéing vegetables: Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavors. Don’t skip this step!
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Adding too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.
• Rushing the cooking time: Cooking on high may sound tempting, but it’s better to allow the chili to cook slowly on low for richer flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Classic Slow Cooker Chili in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Allow the chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Transfer chili to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Classic Slow Cooker Chili unique?

This recipe combines tender ground beef with beans and homemade spices, resulting in a robust flavor that stands out among other chilis.

Can I customize my Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or even switch out meats if desired for a personal touch.

How spicy is this Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted by using more or less chili powder and including additional hot peppers if you prefer a spicier kick.

How long does it take to make Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

Total cooking time is around 3 hours and 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal ready after work.

Final Thoughts

The Classic Slow Cooker Chili is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize it with different beans, meats, or spices based on your preferences. This hearty meal is sure to please family and friends alike—give it a try!

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