Best 2 Classic Slow Cooker Chili Recipes

**Classic Slow-Cooker Chili: A Symphony of Flavors and Comfort**

Indulge in the timeless classic that epitomizes comfort food - the Classic Slow-Cooker Chili. As the name suggests, this culinary delight is prepared with tender chunks of beef, a medley of beans, and an array of spices, all simmered together in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen over time. The result is a hearty, soul-satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

This recipe collection offers a variety of chili variations, each with its unique twist on the traditional recipe. From the classic beef chili, brimming with ground beef and a blend of spices, to the vegetarian chili, packed with colorful veggies and beans, there's a chili recipe for every taste preference. The turkey chili offers a leaner alternative, while the white chicken chili adds a creamy touch with its base of chicken broth and white beans.

For those who like their chili with a kick, the spicy chili recipe incorporates a combination of chili peppers to create a fiery sensation. And for those who prefer a milder flavor, the mild chili recipe tones down the heat while still delivering a rich and satisfying taste.

No matter which recipe you choose, the Classic Slow-Cooker Chili is sure to become a family favorite. With minimal preparation and hands-off cooking, this dish lets you savor the delicious aromas filling your kitchen as it slowly cooks, making it the perfect meal to warm your heart and bring people together.

Let's cook with our recipes!

SLOW COOKER CHILI

Slow Cooker Chili image

One of my most popular recipes and for good reason! This is the best chili I've ever tasted! Slow cooking it allows for the flavors to meld and the most tender beef. Try it tonight and see why everyone loves this! Recipe makes about 12 cups.

Provided by Jaclyn

Categories Soup

Time 6h25m

Number Of Ingredients 17

Ingredients

1 Tbsp olive oil
2 lbs lean ground beef
1 large yellow onion, (finely chopped)
3 cloves garlic, (finely minced)
2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes with green chilies*
3 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce
1/2 cup beef broth
2 Tbsp chili powder
2 1/2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp paprika
2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp ground coriander
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, (drained and rinsed)
1 (15 oz) can light red kidney beans, ( drained and rinsed)
Shredded cheddar cheese, (for serving)

Steps:

Heat olive oil in a large and deep non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add onion and saute 3 minutes, then add garlic and saute 30 seconds longer. Pour onions into a 6 or 7 quart slow cooker (I like this one HERE).
Return skillet to medium-high eat, add beef and cook stirring occasionally until beef has browned.
Drain most of fat from beef, leaving about 2 Tbsp in with beef (this is optional, I think it ads flavor but you can drain it all if you'd prefer). Pour browned beef into slow cooker.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cocoa powder, sugar, coriander and season mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover with lid and cook on low heat for 5 - 6 hours.
Stir in dark and light red kidney beans and allow to heat through, about 2 minutes. Serve warm with desired toppings.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 415 kcal, Carbohydrate 38 g, Protein 32 g, Fat 14 g, SaturatedFat 5 g, Cholesterol 73 mg, Sodium 595 mg, Fiber 11 g, Sugar 8 g, ServingSize 1 serving

SLOW COOKER CHILI II

Slow Cooker Chili II image

The slow cooker is a great way to make chili. This beefy chili is packed with beans, veggies, and spice.

Provided by Danelle

Categories Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes Chili Recipes Beef Chili Recipes

Time 8h15m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 16

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
¾ cup diced onion
¾ cup diced celery
¾ cup diced green bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 (10.75 ounce) cans tomato puree
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans with liquid
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans with liquid
½ tablespoon chili powder
½ teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon dried basil
¾ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
⅛ teaspoon hot pepper sauce

Steps:

Place the beef in a skillet over medium heat, and cook until evenly brown. Drain grease.
Place the beef in a slow cooker, and mix in onion, celery, green bell pepper, garlic, tomato puree, kidney beans, and cannellini beans. Season with chili powder, parsley, salt, basil, oregano, black pepper, and hot pepper sauce.
Cover, and cook 8 hours on Low.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 272.9 calories, Carbohydrate 33.4 g, Cholesterol 34.4 mg, Fat 7.6 g, Fiber 10.9 g, Protein 18.9 g, SaturatedFat 2.7 g, Sodium 975 mg, Sugar 4.9 g

Tips and Conclusion

Crafting a flavorful and hearty slow-cooker chili requires careful attention to ingredient selection, preparation, and cooking techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your chili game:

Choosing the Right Beans: Opt for a combination of beans, such as kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans, to add texture and depth of flavor. Consider using canned or dried beans, depending on your time constraints.
Selecting Quality Meat: Choose high-quality ground beef or turkey for a leaner option. Ensure the meat is fresh and free from excessive fat.
Adding Spices and Seasonings: Experiment with a variety of spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper to achieve your desired level of heat. Don't forget to incorporate herbs like oregano, thyme, and bay leaves for added complexity.
Sautéing Vegetables: Before adding vegetables to the slow cooker, sautéing them in a pan with some oil enhances their flavor and prevents them from becoming mushy.
Building Layers of Flavor: Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, starting with a layer of beans, followed by meat, vegetables, and liquids. This layering technique allows the flavors to meld and develop.
Simmering Time: Cook the chili on low heat for at least 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Longer cooking time results in tender meat and well-blended flavors.
Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the beans or add a cornstarch slurry. For a thinner chili, add more broth or water.
Garnish and Serve: When serving, garnish your chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños. Accompany it with cornbread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal.

In conclusion, creating a classic slow-cooker chili is a culinary journey that allows for creativity and experimentation. Whether you prefer a traditional beef chili or a vegetarian version, the key is to use fresh ingredients, layer flavors, and simmer the chili for an extended period to achieve a rich and satisfying dish. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and embark on a culinary adventure that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds.