Description

This Classic Crockpot Beef Chili is a hands-off comfort food that simmers all day, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. Enjoy tender, flavorful chunks of beef in a rich tomato and bean base, perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15)
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 cups beef broth or stock
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper (green preferred), chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
In the same skillet, add a little olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Transfer the browned ground beef and sautéed vegetables into a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
Add the rinsed kidney beans, pinto beans, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), dried oregano, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Place the lid on the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Once cooking is complete, remove the bay leaf, stir the chili, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve in bowls with your favorite toppings.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 350
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 800 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 10 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: Browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics is essential for depth of flavor. Adjust the spice level to your preference, and don't hesitate to taste and adjust seasonings before serving.