15 Slow Cooker Chili Recipe Ground Beef: Delicious Comfort in Every Bowl

Slow cooker chili is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or feeding a crowd. The beauty of slow cooker chili lies in its simplicity and versatility – you can customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a staple recipe for any home cook. From classic beef chili to vegetarian options and everything in between, these 15 slow cooker chili recipes are sure to warm your soul and become family favorites.

1. Classic Beef Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.

Nutritional Benefits:

Classic beef chili is a hearty and protein-rich dish that’s perfect for satisfying hunger and warming you up on chilly days. Beef provides essential nutrients like iron and protein, while beans add fiber and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

2. Vegetarian Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In the slow cooker, combine black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, diced onion, diced bell peppers, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as avocado slices, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Nutritional Benefits:

Vegetarian chili is a nutritious and flavorful option that’s packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. Beans are a great source of protein and fiber, while vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to this hearty dish.

 

3. Turkey Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground turkey with diced onion and minced garlic until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked turkey mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro.

Nutritional Benefits:

Turkey chili is a lean and protein-packed alternative to traditional beef chili, making it a healthier option for those watching their fat intake. Turkey is low in saturated fat and calories but high in protein, making it a nutritious choice for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

4. White Chicken Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime

Preparation:

1. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and top with diced onion, minced garlic, white beans, diced green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
5. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
6. Add chopped fresh cilantro and lime juice to the slow cooker and stir until well incorporated. 7. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on low heat. 8. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, and tortilla strips.

Nutritional Benefits:

White chicken chili is a lighter alternative to traditional beef chili, with lean chicken breasts providing a healthy dose of protein. White beans add fiber and creaminess to the dish, while diced green chilies provide a subtle heat and flavor. This chili is low in fat and calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for a cozy meal.

5. Spicy Chipotle Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, minced chipotle peppers, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and sliced jalapeños.

Nutritional Benefits:

Spicy chipotle chili is a bold and flavorful option that’s perfect for chili lovers who enjoy a kick of heat. Chipotle peppers add smokiness and spiciness to the dish, while beef provides protein and essential nutrients. This chili is sure to warm you up on cold days and satisfy your cravings for something spicy and satisfying.

6. Beef and Bean Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a skillet, brown the stew beef with diced onion and minced garlic until browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a side of cornbread.

Nutritional Benefits:

Beef and bean chili is a hearty and satisfying option that’s perfect for meat lovers. Stew beef adds richness and flavor to the dish, while beans add fiber and texture. This chili is a comforting meal that’s sure to warm you up on cold nights and keep you full and satisfied.

7. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili

Ingredients:

• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In the slow cooker, combine diced sweet potatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt and chopped fresh cilantro.

Nutritional Benefits:

Sweet potato and black bean chili is a vegetarian-friendly option that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, while black beans provide protein and fiber. This chili is a wholesome and delicious meal that’s perfect for meatless Mondays or any day of the week.

8. Beef and Beer Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 bottle (12 oz) beer
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, beer, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.

Nutritional Benefits:

Beef and beer chili is a hearty and robust option that’s perfect for beer lovers. The addition of beer adds depth and richness to the dish, while beef provides protein and essential nutrients. This chili is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

9. Three-Bean Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In the slow cooker, combine black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

1. Serve hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.

Nutritional Benefits:

Three-bean chili is a vegetarian-friendly option that’s packed with protein and fiber from the beans. Beans are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making this chili a nutritious and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for meatless Mondays or any day when you want a hearty and flavorful dish.

10. Smoky Chicken and White Bean Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime

Preparation:

1. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker and top with diced onion, minced garlic, white beans, diced green chilies, chicken broth, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove chicken thighs from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
5. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir until well incorporated.
6. Add chopped fresh cilantro and lime juice to the slow cooker and stir until well combined.
7. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on low heat.
8. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.

Nutritional Benefits:

Smoky chicken and white bean chili is a flavorful and satisfying option that’s packed with protein and fiber. Chicken thighs add richness and flavor to the dish, while white beans provide texture and creaminess. This chili is perfect for cold winter nights or anytime you want a comforting and delicious meal.

11. Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In the slow cooker, combine black beans, diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, diced onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of pepitas.

Nutritional Benefits:

Pumpkin and black bean chili is a unique and flavorful option that’s perfect for fall. Pumpkin puree adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish, while black beans provide protein and fiber. This chili is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal for the whole family.

12. Beef and Barley Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup pearl barley
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a skillet, brown the stew beef with diced onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic until browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, pearl barley, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a side of crusty bread.

Nutritional Benefits:

Beef and barley chili is a hearty and filling option that’s perfect for a comforting meal. Stew beef adds richness and flavor to the dish, while barley provides texture and heartiness. This chili is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

13. Vegan Quinoa Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In the slow cooker, combine rinsed quinoa, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, diced onion, diced bell peppers, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.

Nutritional Benefits:

Vegan quinoa chili is a nutritious and protein-packed option that’s perfect for plant-based eaters. Quinoa is a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent alternative to meat. This chili is also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal for vegans and omnivores alike.

14. Sausage and Pepper Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add diced onion, diced bell peppers, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. 5. Serve hot with a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil.

Nutritional Benefits:

Sausage and pepper chili is a flavorful and hearty option that’s perfect for lovers of Italian cuisine. Italian sausage adds richness and spice to the dish, while bell peppers provide sweetness and color. This chili is a satisfying and comforting meal that’s sure to please your taste buds.

15. Lentil and Vegetable Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In the slow cooker, combine rinsed lentils, diced onion, diced carrots, diced celery, diced bell pepper, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.

Nutritional Benefits:

Lentil and vegetable chili is a nutritious and budget-friendly option that’s packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, while vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This chili is a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking for a healthy and delicious dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in chili?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in chili. It provides a similar texture and flavor while reducing the fat content of the dish.

2. How long can I store leftover chili in the refrigerator?

Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to the fridge.

3. Can I freeze chili for later use?

Yes, chili can be frozen for later use. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.

4. How can I thicken chili if it’s too thin?

If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered on the stovetop for an additional 15-20 minutes, or by adding a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and simmering until thickened.

5. Can I customize the spice level of chili?

Yes, you can customize the spice level of chili by adjusting the amount of chili powder, cumin, and other spices according to your preference. If you like it spicy, add more chili powder or chopped chili peppers. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of spice added.

6. Can I make chili in advance for a party or gathering?

Yes, chili is a great dish to make in advance for parties or gatherings. You can prepare it a day or two ahead of time and reheat it just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for an even more delicious dish.

7. What are some popular toppings for chili?

Popular toppings for chili include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped green onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and tortilla strips. You can also serve it with a side of cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.

8. Are there any vegetarian alternatives to meat in chili?

Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian alternatives to meat in chili, including beans (such as black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas), lentils, tofu, tempeh, and textured vegetable protein (TVP). These ingredients add protein, fiber, and texture to the dish while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.

9. Can I make chili in a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, chili can be made in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot for a quicker cooking time. Simply follow the recipe instructions as usual, but adjust the cooking time according to the manufacturer’s instructions for your pressure cooker.

10. What are some serving suggestions for chili?

Chili can be served on its own as a hearty main dish, or paired with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado. It also goes well with sides like cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for dipping.

11. Is chili a healthy meal option?

Chili can be a healthy meal option, especially when made with lean protein sources like turkey or chicken, and plenty of vegetables and beans. It’s high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice for lunch or dinner.

12. Can I make chili without beans?

Yes, chili can be made without beans if you prefer. You can simply omit the beans from the recipe or substitute them with additional vegetables, meat, or other protein sources like tofu or tempeh.

13. Can I add beer to chili?

Yes, adding beer to chili can add depth of flavor and richness to the dish. It’s a popular ingredient in many chili recipes, especially those with beef or sausage. Just be sure to use a beer that you enjoy drinking, as the flavor will come through in the final dish.

14. Can I make chili in a Dutch oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, chili can be made in a Dutch oven on the stovetop or in the oven for a quicker cooking time. Simply follow the recipe instructions as usual, but adjust the cooking time and temperature according to your Dutch oven and stovetop or oven settings.

15. Are there any gluten-free alternatives to serve with chili?

Yes, there are plenty of gluten-free alternatives to serve with chili, such as cornbread made with gluten-free flour, gluten-free tortilla chips, or rice. You can also serve it over baked potatoes or sweet potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Slow cooker chili is a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer classic beef chili, vegetarian options, or unique variations like pumpkin and black bean chili, there’s a recipe to suit every taste and dietary preference. With these 15 flavorful recipes and helpful FAQs, you’ll be ready to whip up a delicious batch of slow cooker chili that’s sure to impress your family and friends.