Best Slow Cooker Chili Ever

Name: Best Slow Cooker Chili Ever
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your evenings with this hearty Best Slow Cooker Chili Ever recipe that’s bursting with flavors. Packed with tender beef, zesty tomatoes, and a blend of spices, this chili simmers to perfection in your slow cooker, making it a convenient and delicious option for busy nights. Perfectly seasoned and incredibly satisfying, it's sure to be a family favorite that you'll come back to again and again.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-27T12:00:15.481Z

This chili is a fantastic choice for family dinners.

The Perfect Comfort Food

Chili is often considered the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe takes it to the next level. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it provides warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or need a fulfilling meal for game day, this slow cooker chili is the perfect choice that brings everyone together.

The use of a slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste profile. The prolonged cooking time means the spices can fully infuse the beef and beans, resulting in a sumptuous dish that's bursting with flavor. Plus, the convenience of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your chili is simmering to perfection.

Meal Prep Made Easy

This chili recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile for meal prepping. You can whip up a large batch on Sundays and enjoy it throughout the week. This makes it a fantastic option for individuals or families looking to save time without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. It can easily be stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for later use.

When reheating, you'll find that the flavors deepen even further, making it a great leftover option. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready in minutes. This chili pairs wonderfully with rice, cornbread, or even over baked potatoes, allowing you to mix up your serving options throughout the week.

Family-Friendly Flavor

One of the best aspects of this slow cooker chili is its appeal to the whole family. Most kids love the comforting blend of beef and beans, and the mild spice level makes it accessible for young taste buds. You can always adjust the amount of chili powder or add toppings to suit everyone's palate, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

It's also an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables without anyone noticing. Consider adding bell peppers or carrots to the mix for an extra nutritional boost. They’ll soften during the slow cooking process, blending seamlessly in both texture and flavor. With this recipe, mealtime can be a delightful family experience where everyone is satisfied.

Ingredients

Chili Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients create a perfect blend of flavors.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

In your slow cooker, combine the browned beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until all flavors meld together.

Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Cooking Tips for Best Results

To ensure the best results, always use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh vegetables can significantly enhance the overall flavor of your chili. Additionally, be mindful of the seasoning; adjusting the salt and pepper to your liking can make all the difference in your dish's overall flavor balance.

For an extra layer of richness, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste to the mixture. This simple addition deepens the tomato flavor and helps thicken the chili. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for a bold flavor punch.

Serving Suggestions

This slow cooker chili is delicious on its own, but there are countless serving suggestions to elevate your meal. Serve it with warm, crusty bread or cornbread to soak up all those lovely flavors. A refreshing green salad on the side can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the chili.

If you're hosting an event, consider setting up a chili bar where guests can top their bowls with a variety of garnishes such as avocado slices, diced onions, or shredded cheese. This fun, interactive component can make your meal more engaging and enjoyable for all.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this chili easy to prepare, but it also brings a wealth of nutritional benefits to your table. Ground beef is a fantastic source of protein and iron, which are essential for muscle building and maintaining energy levels. The beans add fiber, contributing to a healthy digestive system.

The tomatoes provide essential vitamins such as vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant recognized for its heart-health benefits. This makes your chili not only a tasty meal but also a nourishing one. Enjoying a bowl of this hearty dish can be both satisfying and beneficial for your overall well-being.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, this chili freezes well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add for more flavor?

Try adding bell peppers, corn, or even some cocoa powder for depth.