Go Back Email Link
Hearty crockpot chili made with ground beef, beans, and tomatoes topped with shredded cheese
Isaac blogger

Easy Crockpot Chili

This easy crockpot chili is a hearty, comforting meal made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and warm spices. With minimal prep and slow cooker cooking, it’s perfect for busy days, meal prep, and cozy family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories:
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef or turkey
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 –3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • Salt & pepper
  • Optional: cayenne or red pepper flakes

Method
 

  1. Before You Begin
  2. Prepare your slow cooker and ingredients as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.
    Use visual cues such as gentle bubbling and tender texture to confirm doneness.
  3. Brown meat in a skillet; drain excess fat.
  4. Add meat, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker.
  5. Stir in tomatoes, beans, and all spices.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chili is hot throughout and gently bubbling when stirred.
  7. Serve with toppings of choice.

Notes

Browning meat first improves flavor and texture.
• Cooking on LOW produces the best flavor development.
 
• Chili thickens slightly as it cools.
• Mash a few beans near the end if you prefer thicker chili.
 
• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and store up to 4 days.
 
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot throughout.