This hearty and flavorful chili is a breeze to prepare in the crockpot. Loaded with ground beef, beans, and classic spices, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped green onions
- Diced avocado
- Crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
- Brown the Meat:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the Crockpot:
- Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot. Add the onion, garlic, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth.
- Add the Seasonings:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Cook the Chili:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings. Serve with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- For a smoky flavor, add a diced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
- Use ground chicken or sausage for a flavorful twist.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.