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Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Classic Slow Cooker Chili That’ll Warm Your Heart and Home

Enjoy a hearty bowl of Classic Slow Cooker Chili, effortlessly blending rich flavors perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 hours
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Substitute with olive oil for a healthier option.
  • 2 medium Onions, chopped finely Use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 1 whole Red Bell Pepper, cut into ½ inch cubes Green bell peppers can be used for a different flavor profile.
  • 6 cloves Garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used in a pinch (1 teaspoon).
For the Spices
  • 0.25 cup Chili Powder Adjust the quantity for preferred spice level.
  • 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin Coriander can be a mild substitute.
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Coriander Omit if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Omit or use less for a milder chili.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Marjoram can be used for similar effects.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust for spice preference.
For the Protein
  • 2 pounds 85% Lean Ground Beef Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative.
For the Beans
  • 1 can (15 ounces) Red Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed Can substitute with black beans.
  • 1 can (15 ounces) Pinto Beans, drained and rinsed Other beans like cannellini can be used.
For the Tomatoes
  • 28 ounces Diced Tomatoes with Juice Use fresh tomatoes with juice as an alternative.
  • 28 ounces Tomato Puree Tomato sauce may work in place of puree.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste preferences.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large Pan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 2 finely chopped onions, 1 diced red bell pepper, and 6 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
  2. Stir in ¼ cup of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 2 teaspoons of ground coriander, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and ½ teaspoon of cayenne. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the spices become aromatic.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add 2 pounds of 85% lean ground beef to the pan. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, for about 3-4 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
  4. Once the beef is browned, carefully transfer all the contents from the pan into your slow cooker.
  5. Stir in 1 can of red kidney beans, 1 can of pinto beans, 28 ounces of diced tomatoes along with their juice, and 28 ounces of tomato puree. Add ½ teaspoon of salt and mix everything thoroughly.
  6. Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. Adjust spices to taste.

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