Slow Cooker Chili for Busy Weeknights (Print Version)
Hearty slow cooker chili recipe, perfect for busy families. Minimal prep for a delicious, comforting meal that's ready when you are.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 360 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 380 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
2 lbs lean ground beef (90/10)
02 -
1 (15-oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
03 -
1 (15-oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
→ Aromatic & Veggie Boosters
04 -
1 large yellow onion, chopped
05 -
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
06 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
→ Signature Spice Blend
07 -
3 tbsp chili powder
08 -
1 tbsp ground cumin
09 -
1 tsp dried oregano
10 -
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
11 -
1 tsp salt
12 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
→ Rich Simmering Liquids
13 -
1 (28-oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
14 -
1 (15-oz) can crushed tomatoes, undrained
15 -
1 cup beef broth
16 -
2 tbsp tomato paste
# Instructions:
01 -
Brown 2 lbs lean ground beef (90/10) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat thoroughly. This initial step is crucial for developing a rich, savory base for your Best Slow Cooker Chili for Busy Families.
02 -
Add 1 large yellow onion, chopped, and 1 large green bell pepper, chopped, to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 4 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
03 -
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add 1 (15-oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained, 1 (15-oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained, 1 (28-oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained, 1 (15-oz) can crushed tomatoes, undrained, 1 cup beef broth, and 2 tbsp tomato paste.
04 -
Stir in 3 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (if using). Mix all ingredients thoroughly to ensure the flavors meld perfectly for your Best Slow Cooker Chili for Busy Families.
05 -
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The longer cook time on low allows the flavors to deepen and become incredibly rich, making this the Best Slow Cooker Chili for Busy Families.
06 -
Once cooked, stir the chili well. Ladle into bowls and serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Enjoy this comforting and easy meal!
# Notes:
01 -
For a leaner option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
02 -
Leftover chili stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
03 -
Serve with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
04 -
To add a smoky depth, consider adding 1/2 tsp smoked paprika along with the other spices.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
6-quart slow cooker
02 -
large skillet
03 -
cutting board
04 -
chef's knife
05 -
measuring cups
06 -
measuring spoons
07 -
can opener
08 -
wooden spoon
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 346 kcal
Total Fat: 12 g
Total Carbohydrate: 28 g
Protein: 28 g