These hearty bowls of crock pot chili are packed with protein and fiber, making them a satisfying dinner option that the entire family will love. You can let your slow cooker do the work for you, yielding a cozy, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends.
There’s something magical about coming home to the warm, savory scent of chili wafting through the house. It reminds me of cool autumn evenings, laughter shared over warm bowls, and the comfort of being together around the table. This recipe is not just about filling your tummy; it’s about creating cherished moments. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious, family-friendly chili that you’ll be making time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This Cozy Chili Recipe
This chili recipe is beloved for its ease and flavor. You’ll have a meal on the table in just 4-6 hours, and the best part? It’s made with simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. This one-pot wonder allows for easy cleanup, making it a trusted choice for busy families.
How to Make the Best Crock Pot Chili
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Cozy Crock Pot Chili
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Hearty bowls of crock pot chili packed with protein and fiber, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 stalk celery (chopped)
- 1 onion (finely diced)
- 1½ Tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ Tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 (15-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can dark red kidney beans
- 1 (15-ounce) can beef broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can refried beans
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for serving)
- Chopped onions (for serving)
- Green onions (for serving)
- Sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
- In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, brown and crumble the ground beef along with the chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
- Drain any excess grease, then transfer the beef mixture to a 4-quart (or larger) crock pot.
- Open all the canned ingredients: the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dark red kidney beans (don’t rinse or drain), refried beans, and beef broth. Pour them into the crock pot, breaking up the refried beans.
- Add chili powder, cumin, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything together thoroughly. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
- Cover with the lid and cook on low for about 4-6 hours, allowing flavors to develop.
- Before serving, taste and make adjustments to seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and top each bowl with your favorite toppings.
Notes
For a richer flavor, let your chili simmer longer. You can also add jalapeños or hot sauce for spice and sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro for bright flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 stalk celery (chopped)
- 1 onion (finely diced)
- 1 ½ Tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ Tablespoon minced garlic
- 15-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
- 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 15-ounce can dark red kidney beans
- 15-ounce can beef broth
- 15-ounce can refried beans
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for serving)
- Chopped onions (for serving)
- Green onions (for serving)
- Sour cream (for serving)
Directions:
- In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, brown and crumble the ground beef along with the chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
- Drain any excess grease, then transfer the beef mixture into a 4-quart (or larger) crock pot.
- Open all the canned ingredients: the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dark red kidney beans (don’t rinse or drain), refried beans, and beef broth. Pour them right into the crock pot. Make sure to break up the refried beans!
- Add the chili powder, cumin, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything together thoroughly. Taste, and add more salt and pepper if needed.
- Cover with the lid and cook on low for about 4-6 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop.
- Before serving, taste again and make adjustments to seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and top each bowl with your favorite toppings.
Serving Suggestions for Your Delightful Chili
This chili is perfect served straight from the pot! Consider setting up a toppings bar with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream to let everyone customize their bowls. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or even over baked potatoes.
How to Store This Delicious Chili
Leftovers? No problem! Allow your chili to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, or you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Handy Tips for Your Perfect Chili
For an even richer flavor, let your chili simmer longer, the depth of taste increases beautifully with time. If you’re looking to make it spicier, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro right before serving can also brighten up the flavors.
Variations to Delight Your Taste Buds
Feel free to mix things up! Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even use plant-based meat for a vegetarian version. You can experiment by adding other beans like black beans or pinto beans, or toss in some corn for extra sweetness and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage are great substitutes if you prefer something different.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you check the labels on your canned products, this chili can easily be gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Certainly! Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply up the amount of beans for a meat-free version.
There you have it! A simple, cozy chili recipe that brings the family together and warms the heart. I can’t wait for you to try this and create your own special moments around the table!