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Ultimate Comfort: Easy Crockpot Chili
Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this delectable slow cooker chili recipe. This homemade chili is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more. Slow cooking is the secret to unlocking the true essence of this easy chili recipe, making it a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (or alternative protein option like ground turkey)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
- 2 Tablespoons chili powder
- 1 Tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional for chili heat: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes
How to Make Easy Crockpot Chili
This easy chili method guides you through creating a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
- Brown the Meat: Start by browning the ground beef (or your chosen alternative protein option) in a skillet over medium-high heat, making sure to crumble it as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. This step is crucial for proper browning techniques and developing deep flavor.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef to your crockpot (a 4-6 quart slow cooker is ideal). Add the diced onions and minced garlic. Stir to combine.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce), kidney beans (drained and rinsed), chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. This blend of chili spices is essential.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded and the chili has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Once the crockpot chili instructions are complete, your easy chili method is ready to serve. Ladle the rich, hearty chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as shredded cheese, diced onions, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
Essential Tools
- Slow Cooker (4-6 quart): The central piece of crockpot specifications.
- Skillet: For browning meat before adding to the slow cooker.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring and mixing.
- Can opener: For canned ingredients.
- Sharp knife: For chopping vegetables.
- Cutting board: For prepping ingredients.
- Ladle: For serving the chili.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measuring equipment of liquids, dry ingredients, and spices and seasonings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the key ingredients in a Chicken Noodle Casserole?
A: Chicken, egg noodles, and creamy sauce are the main parts. The sauce often has cream of chicken soup, milk, and spices. Some recipes add carrots, celery, and peas too.
Q: Is Chicken Noodle Casserole a nutritious meal?
A: Yes, it’s very good for you. It has chicken for protein, which helps muscles. It also has veggies for fiber and vitamins. Some recipes use whole grains for more nutrition, making it a nutritious meal.
Q: Can Chicken Noodle Casserole be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make it early and freeze it. It’s great for busy days or when you need a quick meal. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to bake. This is a fantastic make-ahead chicken noodle casserole option.
Q: How can Chicken Noodle Casserole leftovers be repurposed?
A: Leftovers are great for many things! You can top baked potatoes, make quesadillas, or even a creamy soup. They’re also good for a quick lunch or as a salad topping. Explore recipes using leftover chicken noodle casserole for creative meal ideas.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with Chicken Noodle Casserole?
A: Try a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or dinner rolls. These add flavor and variety to your meal and make the casserole even better.
Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Category: Main Course, Comfort Food
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (or alternative protein option like ground turkey)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
- 2 Tablespoons chili powder
- 1 Tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional for chili heat: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes
Equipment:
- 4-6 quart slow cooker (crockpot)
- Large skillet (for browning meat)
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Can opener
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions:
- Brown Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, crumbling it as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), rinsed and drained kidney beans (and black beans, if using). Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, onion powder (if using), garlic powder (if using), salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine all the chili ingredients.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chili is thickened and the flavors are well-melded. Stir occasionally if possible.
- Serve: Ladle the hot homemade chili into bowls. Serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, fresh cilantro, or cornbread. Enjoy this delicious comfort food!
Notes:
- Meat Doneness: Ensure the ground beef is fully cooked and drained before adding to the slow cooker to prevent excess grease.
- Beans: Feel free to use your favorite bean varieties. If using dried beans, they will need to be soaked and cooked separately before adding to the chili.
- Flavor Boost: For a richer flavor, you can add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder or a splash of brewed coffee to the chili.
- Consistency: If the chili is too thin, remove the lid for the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate. If it’s too thick, stir in a little beef broth or water.
- Make Ahead & Freezing: This crockpot chili is excellent for meal prep. It can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen chili for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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