Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Published: May 24, 2025

by eva

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This easy recipe brings together ground beef, beans, and a delightful blend of spices to create a rich, hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. Ideal for game days, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, this chili simmers effortlessly in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy robust flavors with minimal effort. With its customizable ingredients and quick prep time, it’s a dish everyone will love!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Cooking: Simply add your ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work.
Rich Flavor: The homemade chili seasoning infuses every bite with deep, savory notes.
Feeding a Crowd: Perfect for serving 10 people, making it ideal for parties or family dinners.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite beans or add extra veggies for a personal touch.
Leftover Friendly: Tastes even better the next day! Great for meal prep and leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this Classic Slow Cooker Chili recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Large skillet
Spatula
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: The star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while developing rich flavors over time.
Large skillet: Essential for browning meat and sautéing vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker.
Spatula: Perfect for breaking up ground beef and mixing ingredients effectively.

Ingredients

For the Chili

2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp cumin powder
2 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper
15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans), drained and rinsed
30 oz diced tomatoes, with their juice
10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis, with their juice
30 oz tomato sauce

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sauté for 4-5 minutes. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks until it releases its fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for another 4-5 minutes until tender. Then add minced garlic, cumin powder, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds while stirring constantly.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the beef mixture into your slow cooker. Add in black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), diced tomatoes with green chilis (with juice), and tomato sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Once cooked, taste your chili. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Serving Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit any palate. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your chili game.

Top It Off

Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for a creamy, tangy finish.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and balances the spice.
Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a crunchy contrast and vibrant color.

Pair with Crunchy Sides

Tortilla Chips: Serve crispy tortilla chips for scooping up the chili.
Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread complements the dish perfectly with its sweetness.
Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks can be a fun way to enjoy every last drop of chili.

Add Some Spice

Jalapeños: Offer sliced jalapeños for those who enjoy an extra kick in their bowl.
Hot Sauce: Set out various hot sauces for guests to customize their heat level.

How to Perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Perfecting your Classic Slow Cooker Chili takes just a few extra steps. Here are some tips to help you achieve chili perfection.

Bold seasoning: Use fresh spices for better flavor. Freshly ground spices can enhance the taste significantly.
Slow cook longer: Allow the chili to simmer longer for deeper flavors. The longer it cooks, the more robust it becomes.
Brown the meat well: Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth. This step enhances both flavor and texture.
Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings during cooking. Don’t hesitate to tweak ingredients based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Classic Slow Cooker Chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, cornbread is a classic companion that complements chili’s spicy notes.
Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as a mild base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers coolness and richness, balancing out the chili’s warmth.
Salad: A crisp garden salad adds freshness and crunch to your meal.
Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad contrasts nicely with spicy chili, making each bite enjoyable.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Melty grilled cheese sandwiches provide comfort and satisfaction alongside your chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Classic Slow Cooker Chili experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the meat first can lead to a less flavorful chili. Always sauté the beef until browned to enhance its taste.
Overlooking Seasoning Adjustments: Every ingredient has its own flavor profile. Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout cooking for a balanced chili.
Ignoring Bean Preparation: Not rinsing canned beans can result in excess sodium and a mushy texture. Always drain and rinse your beans before adding them.
Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Cheap canned tomatoes can affect the overall flavor of your chili. Opt for high-quality diced tomatoes for a richer taste.
Not Cooking Long Enough: Under-cooking in the slow cooker means flavors won’t meld properly. Ensure you cook it for at least 3 hours on high or 6 hours on low.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Classic Slow Cooker Chili last?

Classic Slow Cooker Chili lasts about 4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I customize my Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

Absolutely! You can add different beans, vegetables, or spices according to your preference.

What are good toppings for Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

Consider sour cream, shredded cheese, diced onions, or fresh cilantro as tasty toppings.

Is Classic Slow Cooker Chili healthy?

Yes, it can be made healthy by using lean meats and adding more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Slow Cooker Chili is not only hearty but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card