Crock Pot Chili
Looking for a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out? This crock pot chili is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender meat, beans, and spices that meld together beautifully over hours of slow cooking. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 300 calories, 20g protein, 10g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 10g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef to the crock pot.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans.
5. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix all ingredients well to combine.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
8. Stir occasionally if possible, to blend flavors.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired before serving.
10. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, feel free to replace kidney and black beans with your favorite bean varieties or add corn for a sweet crunch.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice for a complete meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not browning the meat properly can result in less flavor.
- Adding too much liquid can make the chili soupy; use just enough.
- Forgetting to season can lead to bland chili.
- Overcooking can cause the beans to become mushy.
- Not letting it sit after cooking can prevent flavors from melding.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different types of beans.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Let the chili sit overnight for deeper flavor.
- Consider adding bell peppers for additional veggies.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more beans or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
How can I make my chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Is it okay to leave chili in the crock pot overnight?
It’s not recommended to leave chili in the crock pot overnight after cooking, as bacteria can grow. Store leftovers promptly.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but dried beans need to be soaked and cooked separately before adding to the chili to ensure they are tender.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, and a fresh salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for dipping.
Conclusion
This crock pot chili recipe is the perfect way to bring warmth and flavor to your table. With minimal effort and maximum taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting aromas and delicious flavors that make this dish a must-try!
Crock Pot Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 28 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese sour cream, green onions
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Transfer the beef to the crock pot.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix all ingredients well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir occasionally if possible, to blend flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired before serving.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
