There’s something magical about the aroma of Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans wafting through your kitchen. Imagine a hearty bowl filled with tender beef, zesty spices, and a medley of beans simmering away, creating a symphony of flavors that makes your mouth water. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day, promising comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. For more inspiration, check out this Spicy Chorizo Sweet Potato Chili recipe.
Now, let’s be real: who doesn’t love the idea of tossing ingredients into a pot and letting magic happen while you binge-watch your favorite show? The anticipation of that first bite is almost as satisfying as finding an extra fry at the bottom of the takeout bag. Whether it’s game day or a cozy night in, this chili will make you feel like a culinary superstar without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- The flavor profile is rich and robust, combining spices that dance on your palate.
- The vibrant colors make it visually enticing, ensuring it steals the spotlight at any gathering.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice or with crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option; it provides the perfect base for our chili.
- Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes for texture; they add a tangy sweetness to balance the spices.
- Canned Beans: A mix of kidney and black beans adds heartiness; rinse them well to cut down on sodium.
- Onion: Chopped onion adds depth; sautéing them before adding enhances their sweetness.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic goodness; nothing beats that smell when cooking.
- Cumin: This spice gives the chili its signature warmth; use freshly ground for potent flavor.
- Chili Powder: A must-have for heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance—be brave!
For the Garnish:
- Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spices perfectly.
- Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some cheese on top for melty goodness—because cheese makes everything better.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. sausage and rice casserole recipe.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat before transferring it to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re translucent and fragrant—your kitchen will smell divine!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In your slow cooker, combine the browned beef, sautéed onions and garlic, canned tomatoes (with juices), beans (drained), cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. slow cooker garlic parmesan meatballs.
Step 4: Add Liquid
Pour in about one cup of beef broth or water to help everything meld together beautifully while cooking.
Step 5: Set It and Forget It
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat for about six to eight hours or high heat for three to four hours. Go ahead and binge that show you’ve been meaning to catch up on!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once done cooking, stir well before serving. Ladle into bowls topped with sour cream and shredded cheese for that extra indulgence.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans is not just your average chili; it’s a flavor explosion that practically cooks itself!
- With minimal effort and maximum taste, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet to lock in flavor. Then, toss everything into the slow cooker, layering the beans, tomatoes, and spices. Let it simmer low and slow for a few hours until it’s thick and hearty.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this recipe! Swap out black beans for pinto beans or add some diced bell peppers for extra crunch. A dash of hot sauce can also turn up the heat if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or pop it in the microwave until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground beef to reduce grease while keeping flavor.
- Add spices gradually to find your perfect heat level.
- Always taste before serving—adjust seasoning to your preference for a personalized touch!
Sometimes I whip up this Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans for game night; it always wins rave reviews from my friends. It’s hard not to smile when everyone’s enjoying a big bowl of comfort food together!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans?
To prepare Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans, you’ll need ground beef, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt. You can also add jalapeños for heat or corn for sweetness. slow cooker honey garlic chicken Make sure to have your slow cooker ready to bring all these flavors together. This combination creates a hearty and nourishing dish that is perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans?
Cooking Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans typically requires about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and robust chili. It’s a great option for busy days since you can set it in the morning and come home to a warm meal. Adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker model for best results.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans?
Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans! After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Freezing is an excellent way to save leftovers and ensure you always have a delicious meal ready.
What toppings go well with Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans?
Enhance your Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans by adding various toppings. Some popular choices include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. You can also serve it with tortilla chips or cornbread for a complete meal experience. These toppings not only add flavor but also create a beautiful presentation that your family and guests will love.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans:
In summary, Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans is an easy and flavorful recipe that brings comfort food to any table. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, this dish offers both convenience and taste. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows all the flavors to develop fully while you focus on other tasks. cozy crock pot chili recipe Whether serving it at a gathering or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this chili is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Enjoy making this delightful recipe!
Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans
Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Beans is a comforting dish that delivers rich flavors and warmth in every bowl. With tender ground beef, zesty spices, and a hearty mix of beans, this chili simmers to perfection in your slow cooker, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Simply set it and forget it while you indulge in your favorite activities. Top with sour cream and cheese for an indulgent finish!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Total Time: 5 minute
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.
- Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in the same skillet until translucent and fragrant.
- In the slow cooker, combine browned beef, sautéed onions and garlic, diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Customize your chili by adding diced bell peppers or swapping out beans based on your preference. Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of chili powder or adding jalapeños for extra heat.




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