A warm, one-pot wonder that practically cooks itself
Let’s be honest—some days are just plain full. Between errands, crafting, work, or family life, dinner can feel like just one more thing on your list. That’s where this slow cooker chili comes in. It’s hearty, flavorful, and requires almost no effort. Just toss everything in, let it simmer low and slow, and come home to the cozy smell of comfort food ready to serve.
This recipe has been a go-to in my kitchen for years—perfect for chilly evenings, potlucks, game days, or anytime you want a warm bowl of goodness with zero fuss.
🛒 Ingredients
Basic Chili Base:
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1 lb ground beef or turkey
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained & rinsed
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1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans, drained & rinsed
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2 tbsp chili powder
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1 tsp cumin
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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Optional: pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat
Add-In Ideas:
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1/2 cup frozen corn
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1 diced bell pepper
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1 small can of green chiles
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Dash of Worcestershire or hot sauce for depth
👩🍳 Instructions
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Brown the meat (optional):
In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey with onion and garlic. Drain any excess fat. (You can skip this step and add everything raw to the slow cooker, but browning adds flavor.) -
Add everything to the slow cooker:
Dump all ingredients into your slow cooker. Give it a good stir to mix everything. -
Cook low and slow:
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Low for 6–8 hours
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Or high for 3–4 hours
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Taste and adjust:
Before serving, give it a taste. Want it spicier? Add a little more chili powder or hot sauce. Too thick? Stir in a splash of broth or water.
🧀 Favorite Toppings
Chili is all about the extras! Try these on top:
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Chopped green onions
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Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread crumbles
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Sliced jalapeños
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Fresh cilantro
🥖 What to Serve With It
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Cornbread muffins
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Baked potatoes (serve chili on top!)
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Tortilla chips or crackers
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Simple green salad
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Buttered rolls or crusty bread
🧊 Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips
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Store: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days
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Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months
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Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth as needed
🍂 A Bowl Full of Cozy
This slow cooker chili is more than just dinner—it’s the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell like home. It’s a weeknight lifesaver, a game-day crowd-pleaser, and a big ol’ bowl of comfort when you need it most.
So plug in that slow cooker, set it, forget it, and let the magic happen.