Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.1 from 148 reviews

If you are craving a hearty, flavorful, and downright comforting meal that you can set and forget, this Crockpot Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender ground beef melding perfectly with a mix of rich tomatoes, spicy chili seasoning, and hearty beans—all slowly simmered to bring out deep, mouthwatering flavors that fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s ideal for busy days or feeding a crowd, and every spoonful offers a beautiful balance of texture and warmth that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in building the depth and heartiness of this Crockpot Chili Recipe. From the savory ground beef to the vibrant tomatoes and the perfect hint of spice, every component enhances the overall taste, texture, and even color, making this chili irresistibly delicious.

2 pounds lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a rich, meaty base for the chili.
1 small yellow or white onion (diced): Adds sweetness and savoriness that complements the meat beautifully.
1 tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses a robust aromatic kick that elevates the chili’s flavor profile.
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Gives a luscious, thick tomato foundation that coats every ingredient in flavor.
1 (15.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Offers texture and bursts of juicy tang to balance the richness.
2 tablespoons chili seasoning: Blends spices perfectly for that warm, spicy kick essential to chili.
1 (15.5 oz) can dark red kidney beans (rinsed and drained): Adds creamy, earthy beans that bulk up the chili and add fiber.
1 (15.5 oz) can light red kidney beans (rinsed and drained): Brings variety in texture while complementing the dark beans beautifully.

How to Make Crockpot Chili Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. Be sure to break it up with a spatula as it cooks so you get nice, even browning. When the beef starts to brown, toss in your diced onion and keep stirring until the onion softens and the meat is fully cooked. Last, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until fragrant—this step builds a flavorful foundation that makes all the difference in your chili.

Step 2: Transfer to Crockpot and Drain Grease

Once your meat and onions are perfectly cooked, transfer everything carefully into your slow cooker. Don’t forget to drain away excess grease before adding the other ingredients. This step helps keep the chili hearty without becoming greasy, ensuring every bite is just right.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Seasoning

Now, add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chili seasoning, and both types of kidney beans directly to the crockpot. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so all the flavors start mingling even before the slow cooking begins. This combination is what brings the chili to life, with the beans lending creaminess and the tomatoes creating a rich, savory sauce.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 8 to 10 hours, or high for 4 to 5 hours if you’re short on time. This long, slow cooking process is what tenderizes the beef further and lets the flavors marry together into something truly spectacular. The patience here will reward you with an incredibly satisfying, cozy meal.

Step 5: Serve Hot With Toppings

Once the cooking time is up, ladle your beautiful crockpot chili into bowls and elevate it with your favorite toppings. Whether it’s shredded cheese melting on top, creamy avocado slices, or a sprinkle of fresh green onions, these extras add freshness, creaminess, and a pop of color that complements the rich chili perfectly.

How to Serve Crockpot Chili Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing isn’t just about looks—it transforms your chili into a feast for the senses. For this Crockpot Chili Recipe, I recommend adding shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for melty richness, cool avocado slices for creamy contrast, and fresh chopped green onions or cilantro for a bright pop of freshness. Sour cream or a dash of hot sauce also add nice layers of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

When it comes to sides, think simple yet complementary. Warm cornbread is a classic pairing, offering a slightly sweet, crumbly texture that balances the chili’s spice. Tortilla chips provide satisfying crunch, while a crisp green salad can add a light, refreshing contrast to the hearty chili. Rice or baked potatoes work beautifully too if you want something more filling.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make your Crockpot Chili Recipe extra fun, try serving it in mini bread bowls or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comfort food twist. You can also spoon chili over loaded nachos topped with jalapeños, olives, and extra cheese for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or game-day snack. Turning it into a chili bar with various toppings lets everyone customize their bowl and makes mealtime feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Crockpot Chili Recipe makes plenty of servings, and leftovers are absolute gold. Store any extra chili in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes fantastic the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating to recombine all the tasty juices.

Freezing

Chili freezes beautifully, making it perfect for batch cooking. Portion the cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a comforting meal, thaw overnight in the fridge or defrost in the microwave before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Crockpot Chili Recipe gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, heating in intervals and stirring between each to ensure even heating. If the chili seems a bit thick after storage, stir in a splash of broth or water to bring back that perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! This Crockpot Chili Recipe is very versatile and will work beautifully with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, though beef gives a richer flavor. Just brown the meat the same way before adding it to the slow cooker.

What if I don’t have chili seasoning?

You can easily substitute with a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust amounts based on your preferred spice level to keep that signature chili warmth.

How thick should the chili be?

Chili consistency can vary, but this recipe typically results in a thick, stew-like texture that’s hearty and filling. If it gets too thick for your liking after cooking or reheating, just stir in a little broth or water to loosen it up.

Can I add vegetables to this crockpot chili?

Definitely! Diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini can be fantastic additions. Add firmer vegetables at the beginning and softer ones later in the cooking process to avoid overcooking.

What toppings do you recommend for serving?

Classic toppings include shredded cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Don’t be afraid to get creative with jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s meal prep for a busy week, a cozy family dinner, or feeding friends at a casual get-together, this Crockpot Chili Recipe is a true winner. Its ease, robust flavors, and comforting warmth make it one of my all-time favorite dishes to whip up and share. Grab your slow cooker, gather these simple ingredients, and get ready for a meal that’ll surely bring smiles all around the table. Happy cooking!