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–+ servings
Crockpot Chili

Irresistibly Hearty Crockpot Chili for Cozy Nights

This Crockpot Chili is a hearty, delicious meal perfect for cozy nights, offering robust flavors and endless customization options.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 lb Ground Beef or Turkey Substitute with ground chicken or pork for a lighter flavor.
  • 1 large Sweet Onion Substitute with yellow or white onion if preferred.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best, but powdered can work.
  • 4 cups Low-Sodium Beef Broth Feel free to swap for chicken or vegetable broth.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste No direct substitute, but reduce liquids if omitted.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies Choose canned tomatoes based on desired heat level.
  • 1 can Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes Use regular diced tomatoes if fire-roasted isn’t available.
For the Beans
  • 1 can Dark Red Kidney Beans Substitute with black beans or other favorites.
  • 1 can Pinto Beans Consider chickpeas or lentils for variation.
For the Spice Blend
  • 2 tbsp Chili Powder Adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 1 tbsp Ground Cumin A must-have for authentic chili flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika Use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked.
  • 1 tbsp Brown Sugar Honey or maple syrup can be used as alternatives.
  • 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust based on taste for a warm kick.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cayenne Adjust based on taste for a warm kick.
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt Tailor to your personal preference.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Tailor to your personal preference.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese
  • 1 cup Sour Cream
  • 0.5 cup Sliced Green Onions
  • 1 unit Lime For squeezing over the chili.

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Chili
  1. Brown the meat in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart until no longer pink. Add the chopped onion halfway through to soften.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Drain excess grease from skillet.
  3. Transfer the meat and onion mixture to the crockpot, scraping up any browned bits.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk the beef broth and tomato paste together until smooth, then pour over the meat in the crockpot.
  5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beans, and spices. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
  6. Cover and set the crockpot to cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Add salt and pepper to taste during the last 30 minutes.
  7. Once cooked, stir the chili and serve with optional toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 24gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Chili freezes beautifully for meal prep. Portion and label containers for easy use later.

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