Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Directions:
In a pan over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or turkey). Break it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the cooked meat to the slow cooker.
Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), diced onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Pour in the broth and mix everything well.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
Serve with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chili
Slow Cooker Chili is a comforting dish that is full of flavor and nutrition. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy days. You can easily throw everything into your crockpot in the morning and come home to a warm, delicious meal. The combination of beans, meat, and vegetables makes it hearty and satisfying, while the spices add warmth and depth. This dish is great for feeding a crowd or for enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.
Nutriments benefits
Chili is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. Here are a few benefits of the main ingredients:
Beans are a great source of protein and fiber, which are beneficial for heart health and digestive health. They help keep you full for longer, which can be important if you’re watching your weight.
Ground beef or ground turkey provides essential proteins for muscle growth and repair. Turkey is leaner and lower in calories than beef if you want a lighter option.
Vegetables like onions and bell peppers are full of vitamins A and C, which are important for immune health and skin health.
Overall, this chili is a nutritious meal that will help you fuel your day.
What to Serve With Slow Cooker Chili
You can enjoy Slow Cooker Chili on its own, but if you want to make it a complete meal, here are some great sides to consider:
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the chili. You can bake it or even make cornbread muffins for easy serving.
Rice: Serving chili over rice can make the meal more filling. Brown rice or white rice both work well.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips can be a fun accompaniment. You can also sprinkle some chips on top of the chili for added texture.
Salad: A green salad can provide a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the chili.
How to store Slow Cooker Chili
If you have leftovers, storing Slow Cooker Chili is easy. Here’s how:
Let the chili cool down to room temperature.
Transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure the lid is on tightly.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
You can also freeze leftover chili. Here’s what to do:
Pour the cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
Leave some room at the top because the chili will expand as it freezes.
Label and date the containers.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove or microwave until heated through.
Tips and mistakes to avoid
Avoid overcooking: Slow cookers vary in temperature. If you cook on high, be careful not to go over the suggested time, as this can cause the chili to dry out.
Don’t forget the flavors: Taste the chili before serving. You can always adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if necessary.
Experiment with beans: You can add other beans like pinto beans or navy beans for variety. Just make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly.
Don’t skip the browning: Browning the meat beforehand adds a depth of flavor to your chili, so it’s worth the extra step.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients in this chili:
Vegetarian Chili: Swap the ground meat for more beans or lentils. Add extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or corn.
Spicy Chili: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you like it hot.
White Chili: Use chicken instead of beef and add white beans and green chilies for a lighter, unique take.
FAQs
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, using canned beans is convenient and saves time. Just be sure to rinse and drain them before adding to your slow cooker.
How can I make chili thicker?
If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the chili during the last hour of cooking. Alternatively, you can let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
Can I leave the chili cooking overnight?
It’s not recommended to leave chili cooking overnight in the slow cooker. Most models are designed to be used for either low or high settings for a limited time. Cooking it for too long may lead to overcooked flavors and textures.
In summary, Slow Cooker Chili is a delicious, hearty meal perfect for any day. It’s an easy recipe that uses simple ingredients and offers plenty of flavor and nutrition. With its flexibility and ease of storage, it’s a perfect dish to make ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week!