Picture a chilly evening where the warmth of a cozy home is filled with the pleasing aroma of spices simmering in a pot. This is what a Hearty Crockpot Chili means to me. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the smiles on their faces as they took their first bites filled my heart with joy. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring people together, to share stories, and to create lasting memories. With each spoonful, you can taste the love and comfort that comes from home-cooked food. This recipe is special because it’s simple to make, yet it offers depth of flavor that warms you from the inside out.
why make this recipe
Making Hearty Crockpot Chili is a fantastic way to enjoy a filling and delicious meal with minimal effort. This recipe is great for those busy weekdays when you want something hearty waiting for you at the end of the day. You can prepare it in the morning, set your crockpot, and let it do the work while you go about your day. It’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or even a cozy night in. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can adjust it to suit your tastes or the ingredients you have on hand.
how to make Hearty Crockpot Chili
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (or turkey for a healthier option)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro
Directions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or turkey) until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- In your crockpot, combine the cooked ground meat, sautéed onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper over the top of the mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
- Once the cooking time is complete, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
- Serve the chili hot, with your choice of optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs.
how to serve Hearty Crockpot Chili
Hearty Crockpot Chili is best served hot. You can ladle it into bowls and top it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh chopped herbs like cilantro and green onions. It goes well with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or rice. Enjoy it with family and friends for a truly delightful meal.
how to store Hearty Crockpot Chili
To store any leftover chili, let it cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
tips to make Hearty Crockpot Chili
- For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth.
- Adjust the spices to suit your taste; you can add more cayenne for extra heat or skip it for a milder flavor.
- You can add corn, zucchini, or any other vegetables for added nutrition.
- To thicken the chili, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot or add a little tomato paste.
variation
You can easily customize this chili recipe. Try adding red wine for depth of flavor, or switch up the beans based on what you have. Some people enjoy adding chocolate or coffee for a richer taste. If you love a smokier flavor, consider using smoked paprika or adding some chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef in the chili? Yes, you can use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option, and it will still taste great.
2. How do I make the chili spicier? You can add more cayenne pepper or throw in some jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
3. Can I make this chili in a regular pot instead of a crockpot? Yes, you can! Just follow the same steps, but simmer it on the stove for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Hearty Crockpot Chili
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (or turkey for a healthier option)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 each bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 2 cans 14.5 ounces each diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can 15 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
Spices
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings
- shredded cheese
- sour cream
- chopped green onions
- cilantro
Method
Preparation
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or turkey) until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Cooking
- In your crockpot, combine the cooked ground meat, sautéed onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper over the top of the mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
- Once the cooking time is complete, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Serving
- Serve the chili hot, with your choice of optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs.