This crockpot beef chili is warm, simple, and hands-off. You brown beef, add beans, tomatoes, and spices, then let the slow cooker do the rest. If you like easy beef meals, you may also enjoy this beef tacos recipe guide for another quick weeknight option.
why make this recipe
This recipe is easy and filling. You can set the crockpot and forget it. The flavors get better the longer it cooks, and it feeds a group or gives good leftovers. For simple beef ideas and tips, see these wagyu beef breakfast recipes for more ways to cook beef.
how to make Crockpot Beef Chili
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any extra fat.
- Put the browned beef into the crockpot.
- Add onion, garlic, beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
- Stir all ingredients well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
If you want ideas for side dishes, you can learn about what food goes well with wagyu beef and adapt the pairings to this chili.
Ingredients :
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
Directions :
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the browned beef to the crockpot.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot with optional toppings.
how to serve Crockpot Beef Chili
Serve the chili hot in bowls. Top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or chopped green onions. You can also serve it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for texture. For topping ideas and ways to change the finish, check what toppings for beef tacos and adapt those toppings for your chili.
how to store Crockpot Beef Chili
Let the chili cool to room temperature, then put it in airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
tips to make Crockpot Beef Chili
- Brown the beef first to add more flavor.
- Taste before serving and add salt as needed.
- If you like thicker chili, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes or mash some beans to thicken.
- Use low heat for a longer, richer flavor.
- For more simple beef meal ideas, you can revisit the beef tacos recipe guide for extra inspiration.
variation (if any)
- Use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork instead of all beef.
- Add a can of corn or diced bell peppers for more texture.
- For extra heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne.
- Use pinto or black beans instead of kidney beans.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen ground beef?
A: It is best to thaw and brown frozen beef first. Browning adds flavor and removes excess fat.
Q: Can I make this on the stove instead of a crockpot?
A: Yes. Simmer the chili on low for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld.
Q: How do I make the chili less spicy?
A: Reduce the chili powder or use mild chili powder. You can also add a little sugar or extra tomatoes to balance heat.
Q: Can I add other beans or vegetables?
A: Yes. Pinto beans, black beans, corn, and bell peppers all work well.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, use a larger slow cooker and increase cooking time slightly if needed.
Crockpot Beef Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Put the browned beef into the crockpot.
- Add onion, garlic, beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
- Stir all ingredients well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
- Serve hot with optional toppings of shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.