Warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds with this incredible crockpot chili recipe. Ideal for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers, this dish combines tender meats, beans, and a medley of spices, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Let the flavors meld together as you enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen. Perfect for busy days, this recipe is a must-try for chili lovers everywhere!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 10g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked.
2. Drain excess fat, if necessary, and set aside.
3. In the crockpot, combine the cooked meat, kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans.
4. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice to the pot.
5. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic.
6. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
7. Stir everything to combine well.
8. Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
10. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground turkey with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version. You can also use different types of beans or add bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This delicious chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve over rice or with warm crusty bread.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip browning the meat; it adds depth of flavor.
– Avoid overcooking; check for doneness as recommended.
– Use fresh spices for better flavor.
– Don’t forget to adjust seasoning before serving.
– Avoid watery chili by draining the beans properly.
Helpful Tips
– Prep ingredients in advance to save time.
– Use a variety of beans for added texture.
– Adjust spice levels according to your preference.
– Add a splash of vinegar or lime juice before serving for brightness.
FAQs
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili goes well with cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. You can also top it with cheese and sour cream.
Can I use canned beans?
Absolutely! Canned beans are convenient and save time. Just be sure to rinse them before adding to the chili.
How do I make it spicier?
Add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to increase the heat level to your liking.
Can I freeze leftover chili?
Yes, chili freezes well. Store it in airtight containers, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Conclusion
This crockpot chili recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it delivers bold flavors and comforting warmth. Try it today and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!
Crockpot Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 28 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese sour cream, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat, if necessary, and set aside.
- In the crockpot, combine the cooked meat, kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans.
- Add the diced tomatoes with their juice to the pot.
- Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Stir everything to combine well.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
