Effortless Weeknight Winner: Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chili Recipe

Chili is a quintessential comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings, game days, or simply when you crave a hearty and satisfying meal. While traditional chili recipes often require simmering on the stovetop for hours, this slow cooker ground beef chili recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich, flavorful chili that’s ready when you are. This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking with different beans, vegetables, and spice levels. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why Use a Slow Cooker for Chili?

Using a slow cooker (also known as a Crock-Pot) for chili offers several advantages:

* **Hands-off Cooking:** The slow cooker does most of the work, freeing you up to attend to other tasks. Simply dump the ingredients in, set the timer, and let it simmer.
* **Enhanced Flavor:** The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and deepen, resulting in a richer, more complex chili than you might achieve with stovetop cooking.
* **Tender Beef:** Slow cooking ensures that the ground beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
* **Convenience:** You can prepare the chili in the morning and have a hot, delicious meal waiting for you when you get home from work.
* **Easy to Scale:** Slow cooker chili is easy to scale up or down to feed a crowd or just a few people.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for this slow cooker ground beef chili recipe:

* **Ground Beef:** 2 pounds of ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio is recommended for flavor, but leaner options can be used). Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth of flavor, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
* **Onion:** 1 large yellow onion, chopped. Onions provide a savory base for the chili.
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor.
* **Bell Pepper:** 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional, but adds sweetness and texture). Red, yellow, or orange bell peppers can also be used.
* **Canned Tomatoes:** 2 (28-ounce) cans of crushed tomatoes. Crushed tomatoes form the base of the chili sauce.
* **Tomato Paste:** 2 (6-ounce) cans of tomato paste. Tomato paste adds richness and depth of flavor.
* **Canned Beans:** 1 (15-ounce) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15-ounce) can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans, drained and rinsed (or use your favorite combination of beans). Beans add protein, fiber, and texture to the chili.
* **Chili Powder:** 2-3 tablespoons of chili powder (adjust to your desired spice level). Chili powder is the key spice in chili, providing a warm, earthy flavor.
* **Cumin:** 2 teaspoons of ground cumin. Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chili powder.
* **Oregano:** 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Oregano adds an herbaceous flavor to the chili.
* **Cayenne Pepper:** 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat). Adjust to your desired spice level.
* **Beef Broth:** 1 cup of beef broth (or water). Beef broth adds moisture and flavor to the chili.
* **Worcestershire Sauce:** 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Worcestershire sauce adds a savory and umami flavor.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Salt and pepper enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **Optional Toppings:** Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro, avocado, tortilla chips.

Equipment Needed

* **Slow Cooker:** A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is recommended.
* **Large Skillet:** For browning the ground beef (optional).
* **Wooden Spoon or Spatula:** For stirring.
* **Can Opener**
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons**
* **Cutting Board**
* **Knife**

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide on how to make this delicious slow cooker ground beef chili:

**Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef (Optional)**

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Drain off any excess grease.
2. If desired, add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

**Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker**

1. Transfer the browned ground beef (and onion and bell pepper, if cooked) to the slow cooker.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

**Step 3: Cook the Chili**

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking on low will result in a more tender and flavorful chili.

**Step 4: Check for Doneness and Adjust Seasoning**

1. After the chili has cooked, check to make sure the ground beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
2. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to your liking.

**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**

1. Serve the chili hot, topped with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro, avocado, and tortilla chips.

Tips and Variations

* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to your desired spice level. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed.
* **Bean Variations:** Feel free to use your favorite type of beans, such as great northern beans, cannellini beans, or even lentils.
* **Vegetable Variations:** Add other vegetables to the chili, such as corn, zucchini, or diced tomatoes.
* **Meat Variations:** You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the ground beef.
* **Smoked Paprika:** Add 1-2 teaspoons of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
* **Cocoa Powder:** Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for a richer, more complex flavor.
* **Coffee:** Add 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee for a deeper, more intense flavor.
* **Liquid Smoke:** A dash of liquid smoke can add a smoky element if you didn’t brown the beef.
* **Thickening Chili:** If your chili is too thin, remove the lid from the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the chili during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the ground beef and add more beans and vegetables for a vegetarian version.
* **Add Beer:** Adding a bottle of your favorite beer can bring a lot of flavor to the chili.
* **Leftovers:** Chili tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Serving Suggestions

* **Classic Chili:** Serve in bowls topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped onions.
* **Chili Cheese Fries:** Top a bed of french fries with chili and shredded cheese.
* **Chili Dogs:** Serve chili on hot dogs with your favorite toppings.
* **Chili Mac:** Combine chili with cooked macaroni and cheese.
* **Chili Nachos:** Top tortilla chips with chili, shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings.
* **Chili Baked Potatoes:** Top baked potatoes with chili and your favorite toppings.

Detailed ingredient information and possible substitutes

* **Ground Beef:**
* **Description:** The foundation of the chili, providing protein and a rich, meaty flavor. Using a blend with some fat (like 80/20) helps keep the chili flavorful and prevents the beef from drying out during the long cooking process. Leaner ground beef (90/10 or higher) can be used, but consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet while browning to compensate for the lack of fat.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Ground Turkey:** A leaner alternative to ground beef, offering a similar texture and flavor profile. Opt for ground turkey with some fat content or add a little olive oil to prevent dryness.
* **Ground Chicken:** Another leaner option, but the flavor is milder than ground beef or turkey. Season generously with spices to enhance the taste.
* **Plant-Based Ground Meat:** Several plant-based ground meat alternatives are available, made from soy, pea protein, or other vegetable sources. These can be used as a direct substitute for ground beef.
* **Shredded Beef:** Pre-cooked or leftover shredded beef, such as chuck roast, can be added towards the end of the cooking time for a hearty and flavorful chili.
* **Diced Steak:** Small cubes of beef steak are also a good choice.
* **Onion:**
* **Description:** Provides a foundational aromatic flavor that builds depth into the chili. Yellow onions are a common choice, offering a balanced sweetness and sharpness.
* **Substitutes:**
* **White Onion:** Milder and slightly sweeter than yellow onions. A suitable substitute if you prefer a less pungent flavor.
* **Red Onion:** Offers a sharper, more assertive flavor. Best used in moderation or caramelized before adding to the chili.
* **Shallots:** Have a delicate, sweet flavor with a hint of garlic. Can be used in combination with or as a substitute for onions.
* **Onion Powder:** In a pinch, use 1-2 teaspoons of onion powder as a substitute. However, fresh onions provide a superior texture and flavor.
* **Garlic:**
* **Description:** Adds a pungent, aromatic note that complements the other spices and ingredients. Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Garlic Powder:** Use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic. While convenient, garlic powder lacks the complexity of fresh garlic.
* **Jarred Minced Garlic:** A convenient alternative to fresh garlic, but the flavor may be less intense.
* **Garlic Paste:** Another pre-prepared option that offers a concentrated garlic flavor.
* **Asafoetida (Hing):** A pungent spice used in Indian cuisine that can mimic the flavor of garlic and onion. Use sparingly, as it has a strong odor when raw but mellows out when cooked.
* **Bell Pepper:**
* **Description:** Adds sweetness, a mild vegetal flavor, and a touch of color and texture. Green bell peppers are common, but red, yellow, and orange bell peppers offer a sweeter flavor.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Other Sweet Peppers:** Anaheim peppers, poblano peppers (mild), or Italian frying peppers can be used for a similar sweet pepper flavor.
* **Spicy Peppers:** For a spicier chili, add jalapenos, serranos, or other chili peppers (adjust the amount to your desired heat level). Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.
* **Zucchini or Squash:** Adds a similar texture and mild flavor. Diced zucchini or squash can be added along with the other vegetables.
* **Canned Tomatoes (Crushed):**
* **Description:** Forms the base of the chili sauce, providing acidity and tomato flavor. Crushed tomatoes offer a smoother texture than diced tomatoes.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Diced Tomatoes:** Can be used instead of crushed tomatoes. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the diced tomatoes with an immersion blender before adding them to the slow cooker.
* **Tomato Sauce:** Can be used as a partial substitute for crushed tomatoes, but it may result in a thinner chili. Reduce the amount of beef broth accordingly.
* **Canned Whole Tomatoes:** Can be crushed by hand or blended before adding to the slow cooker.
* **Fresh Tomatoes:** If using fresh tomatoes, peel, seed, and chop them before adding them to the chili. You may need to add a little tomato paste to thicken the sauce.
* **Tomato Paste:**
* **Description:** Concentrated tomato flavor that adds richness and depth to the chili. Enhances the overall tomato taste and helps thicken the sauce.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Tomato Sauce:** Can be used in a larger quantity, but it will not provide the same concentrated flavor and thickening effect. You may need to simmer the chili for a longer time to reduce the liquid.
* **Sun-Dried Tomato Paste:** Offers an even more intense tomato flavor. Use sparingly, as it can be quite strong.
* **Roasted Red Peppers:** Can add a sweet and smoky depth of flavor. Blend roasted red peppers into a paste and add them to the chili.
* **Canned Beans (Kidney, Pinto, Black):**
* **Description:** Provides protein, fiber, and texture to the chili. A combination of different beans adds complexity and visual appeal.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Other Bean Varieties:** Great Northern beans, cannellini beans, chickpeas, or even lentils can be used. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some beans may require longer to soften.
* **Dried Beans:** Can be used instead of canned beans. Soak the dried beans overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the slow cooker.
* **Corn:** Adds sweetness and texture to the chili. Canned, frozen, or fresh corn can be used.
* **Chili Powder:**
* **Description:** A blend of spices that typically includes ground chili peppers, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and paprika. Provides the characteristic flavor of chili.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Individual Spices:** Create your own chili powder blend by combining ground chili peppers (such as ancho, chipotle, or New Mexico), cumin, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, and other spices to your liking.
* **Ancho Chili Powder:** Made from dried ancho chili peppers. Offers a mild, fruity flavor with a hint of heat.
* **Chipotle Chili Powder:** Made from smoked jalapeno peppers. Provides a smoky and moderately spicy flavor.
* **Cumin:**
* **Description:** Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chili powder and other spices.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Caraway Seeds:** Offers a similar earthy flavor, but with a slightly bitter note.
* **Garam Masala:** A blend of spices used in Indian cuisine. Can be used in small amounts to add warmth and complexity.
* **Oregano:**
* **Description:** Adds an herbaceous flavor to the chili.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Marjoram:** Offers a similar flavor to oregano, but with a slightly sweeter and more delicate note.
* **Thyme:** Another herb that can be used in chili, but it has a more distinct flavor. Use sparingly.
* **Italian Seasoning:** A blend of herbs that typically includes oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Can be used as a convenient substitute.
* **Cayenne Pepper:**
* **Description:** Adds heat to the chili. Use sparingly, as it is quite potent.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** A coarser form of cayenne pepper. Can be used to add both heat and texture.
* **Chili Oil:** Adds both heat and flavor. Drizzle a small amount of chili oil over the chili before serving.
* **Hot Sauce:** A variety of hot sauces can be used to add heat and flavor. Choose a hot sauce that complements the other flavors in the chili.
* **Beef Broth:**
* **Description:** Adds moisture and flavor to the chili.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Chicken Broth:** Can be used as a substitute, but it will slightly alter the flavor of the chili.
* **Vegetable Broth:** Suitable for vegetarian chili. Adds a savory flavor without the meatiness of beef broth.
* **Water:** Can be used in a pinch, but it will result in a less flavorful chili. Consider adding extra spices or a bouillon cube to compensate.
* **Worcestershire Sauce:**
* **Description:** Adds a savory, umami flavor to the chili.
* **Substitutes:**
* **Soy Sauce:** Offers a similar savory flavor. Use sparingly, as it is quite salty.
* **Fish Sauce:** Another umami-rich sauce that can be used in small amounts. Adds a distinct flavor that may not be suitable for all palates.
* **Marmite or Vegemite:** Concentrated yeast extracts that provide a strong umami flavor. Use sparingly, as they are quite salty and intense.
* **Coconut Aminos:** A soy-free alternative to soy sauce. Offers a slightly sweeter flavor.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 350-450 per serving (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Protein: 25-35 grams
* Fat: 15-25 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
* Fiber: 10-15 grams

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.*

Conclusion

This slow cooker ground beef chili recipe is a surefire way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a game-day crowd-pleaser, or a comforting dish on a cold day, this chili is sure to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and effortless meal!