Hearty Slow-Cooker Beef Chili

Hearty Slow-Cooker Beef Chili: A Comfort Food Classic

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more satisfying than a warm, hearty bowl of beef chili. With its rich flavors and cozy appeal, this Hearty Slow-Cooker Beef Chili is undoubtedly the perfect dish to bring comfort to your table. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving a low-effort dinner, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.

One of the best things about slow-cooker recipes is their ability to simplify busy days. Not only can you set it, forget it, and come back to a kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of simmering spices, but the slow-cooking process also allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully. In addition, this method ensures the flavors develop fully over time. As a result, you get a dish that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying.

What makes this chili especially unique is its balance of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. For instance, ingredients like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika create a robust base. Meanwhile, the addition of fresh bell peppers, garlic, and diced tomatoes provides brightness and depth. Furthermore, to customize the heat level, you can easily adjust the jalapeño or leave it out altogether.

Moreover, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly versatile. For example, you can serve it with a side of cornbread, over rice, or topped with shredded cheese and sour cream. On top of that, it’s perfect for game days, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners. In short, it’s a recipe for any occasion.

So, if you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal that’s guaranteed to please, this Hearty Slow-Cooker Beef Chili is just the recipe you need. Not only is it comfort food at its finest, but once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. After all, it’s easy, delicious, and made to impress!

INGREDIENTS
1 ½ lb ground beef
3 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
3 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 ½ cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 red bell peppers, diced
1 cup beef broth or water
3 tbsp chili powder
1 ½ tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp ground cumin
1 ½ tsp smoked paprika
¾ tsp oregano
1 jalapeño, diced (optional, for spice)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste after cooking)

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prepare the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned, about 6 min. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onions, garlic, red bell peppers, and jalapeño (if using). Sauté for 5 min until softened and fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the beef for added flavor.
3. Combine the ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
4. Add liquid and seasoning: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low heat for 6–8 hours, or on high heat for 3–4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken beautifully.
6. Adjust seasoning: About 30 min before serving, taste the chili and adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices if needed. If the chili is too thick, stir in a splash of beef broth.
7. Serve and garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or diced green onions to complement the rich flavors.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Brown the beef for extra flavor: Don’t skip browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker. This step not only enhances the flavor but also helps to create a deeper, richer taste by sealing in the juices.
• Layer the spices strategically: For the best results, evenly distribute the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika throughout the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure every bite is infused with bold, savory flavor.
• Customize the texture and heat: If you prefer a spicier chili, consider adding an extra diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. To adjust the thickness, add a splash of beef broth during cooking or mash a portion of the beans for a naturally thickened texture.