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Crock pot chili with toppings on rustic kitchen table

Crock Pot Chili

A hearty and comforting slow cooker chili made with pantry-friendly ingredients. It’s freezer-friendly, family-approved, and perfect for meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Resting Time 0 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course, Slow Cooker Meals
Cuisine: American
Calories: 330
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb – Ground beef or ground turkey – lean
  • 1 – Onion – chopped
  • 2 cloves – Garlic – minced
  • 1 – Green bell pepper – diced
  • 1 can – Black beans – drained and rinsed
  • 1 can – Kidney beans – drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 15 oz – Crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup – Beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp – Chili powder
  • 1 tsp – Cumin
  • 1/2 tsp – Smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp – Cayenne pepper – optional
  • 1 tsp – Salt
  • 1/2 tsp – Black pepper

Equipment

  • 1 Crock Pot 6-quart preferred
  • 1 Skillet (for browning meat)
  • 1 Wooden spoon (for stirring)
  • 1 Measuring spoons – for spices

Method
 

  1. Brown the ground meat in a skillet with chopped onion and garlic.
  2. Transfer the meat mixture to the crock pot.
  3. Add black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, bell pepper, broth, and all spices.
  4. Stir to combine and cover with lid.
  5. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
  6. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs.

Notes

  • To deepen flavor, add 1 tsp of cocoa powder or a splash of soy sauce.
  • This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months.
  • Leftovers improve with time, perfect for next-day meals.