This Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is such a simple and satisfying meal. It’s packed with hearty ground beef, tender beans, and a mix of spices that make every bite warm and flavorful. There’s something really comforting about a slow-cooked chili that fills your home with a cozy, inviting smell.
I love using the crockpot for this recipe because it lets all the flavors blend together perfectly while I get to focus on other things. Plus, it’s an easy way to have dinner ready when you walk through the door after a busy day. I usually add a little extra chili powder for some kick, but you can adjust it to make it mild or spicy, whatever you like.
My favorite way to enjoy this chili is with a big scoop of sour cream and some shredded cheese on top, maybe even a few crackers or cornbread on the side. It’s the kind of meal that’s great for sharing with family or friends, especially when the weather turns chilly. It always makes the whole table feel cozy and happy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star protein that makes the chili hearty. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For plant-based eaters, use lentils or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein.
Kidney Beans: These add texture and fiber. You can swap them for black beans, pinto beans, or a mix. Just be sure to rinse canned beans well to reduce salt and improve flavor.
Chili Powder & Spices: Chili powder is essential for that classic chili flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine. Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat.
Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes: These give the chili a rich tomato base. If preferred, you can use crushed tomatoes or add a bit of tomato paste for more depth.
How Do You Get Flavorful Chili in a Crockpot? Tips for Layering Flavors
The secret to rich chili is building flavor step-by-step:
- Brown the beef first: Browning adds a nice depth. Don’t skip this by adding raw meat straight to the crockpot.
- Sauté onions and garlic: This softens them and brings out sweetness before slow cooking.
- Use fresh spices: Add chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the meat mixture so the slow heat wakes up the flavors.
- Simmer low and slow: Cooking on low for several hours lets everything blend well. Resist the urge to rush it.
Before serving, always taste and tweak your seasoning—sometimes a little salt or chili powder can make all the difference.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crockpot/slow cooker – it’s the heart of this recipe and makes cooking hands-free.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions before slow cooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – easy for stirring and breaking up meat without scratching your pans.
- Can opener – to quickly open canned beans, tomatoes, and tomato sauce.
- Measuring spoons – for precise use of spices to get the flavor just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter chili that still tastes great.
- Add diced bell peppers or corn for extra crunch and a sweet touch.
- Stir in a bit of cocoa powder or dark chocolate to deepen the chili’s flavor complexity.
- Top with jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer your chili with a spicy kick.
Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices & Seasonings:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let your crockpot work its magic for 6 to 8 hours on low heat, or 3 to 4 hours on high. This easy slow cooking means you can set it early and have a warm, tasty meal ready by dinner time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef and Onion:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook it until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell the garlic’s delicious aroma.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Put the ground beef in the skillet and break it apart with a spoon. Keep cooking until the meat is nicely browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s extra fat, drain it to keep your chili hearty but not greasy.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked beef, onions, and garlic into your crockpot. Then add drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
4. Slow Cook Your Chili:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking helps all the flavors blend together beautifully and the beans and beef to become tender.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, taste your chili and add a little more salt or chili powder if needed. Serve it hot with your choice of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some sliced green onions on top for a perfect finish. Enjoy your comforting crockpot chili!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Chili?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw it before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps the beef brown evenly without steaming.
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything and refrigerate the chili for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving to keep the flavors fresh.
How Should I Store Leftover Chili?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Use Different Beans or Meat?
Yes! Black beans, pinto beans, or a mix work great. You can also swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute depending on your preference.
