Slow Cooker Beef Chili

Hearty, warming, and packed with bold flavors, this slow-cooker beef chili is a cold-weather staple. It features a robust blend of ground beef, beans, and spices that meld together beautifully over hours of gentle cooking.

• Prep time: 23 minutes
• Cook time: 223 minutes
• Total time: 246 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through, then drain the excess fat.
2. Add the browned beef to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in the onion, garlic, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste.
4. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, and beef broth.
5. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

Tips

• Brown your beef thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure the best flavor and texture.
• If you like a thicker chili, leave the lid off for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
• Serve with toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro to add brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, diced bell peppers or corn are excellent additions that add color and nutrition.

Is this chili spicy?

The spice level is moderate; you can reduce the cayenne pepper for a milder version or add diced jalapeños for more heat.

Can I use dry beans?

It is not recommended to use dry beans in a slow cooker unless they have been soaked and pre-boiled, as they may not soften properly.