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This slow cooker beef chili is super cozy, perfect for cold nights when you want something comforting. The flavors get richer with hardly any work, making it great for busy evenings or lazy weekends.
I tried this right after getting my slow cooker as a gift and was hooked by how the flavors grew with almost no fuss. Now it’s a regular go-to that fills the house with cozy vibes.
What to Grab
- 1 lb of 80% lean ground beef: juicy and full of flavor, leaner meat might dry out so keep this ratio
- Green and red bell peppers: add sweetness and bright hues, pick firm ones without soft spots
- 1 big yellow onion: gives a gentle sweetness that softens when you cook it
- 4 garlic cloves: add great aroma, fresh is best for punchy flavor
- 2 cans diced tomatoes: give saucy brightness, no salt added is good if you watch sodium
- 1 can kidney beans: adds creaminess and fiber, rinse and drain to cut extra salt and starch
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: lays down that smoky, spicy flavor base
- 1 tablespoon cumin: brings a warm, earthy taste
- Smoked paprika plus ½ teaspoon cayenne: for smoky heat and a gentle spice kick, tweak to your liking
- Salt and fresh ground pepper: natural flavor boosters that balance everything out
How to Make It
The smoky paprika and cumin combo smells so welcoming from the start. This chili reminds me of family nights, everyone gathered after being outside, sharing stories over warm bowls of this filling dish.
Keeping It Fresh
Swap Ideas
Best Things to Serve
Where It Comes From
Seasonal Twists
Let the slow cooker do its thing but wait 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This short pause lets the flavors settle down and thickens the chili just right, so every spoonful is rich and delicious.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which beef cut should I pick for this?
Go with ground beef around 80% lean to keep it juicy with plenty of flavor in each bite.
- → Can I swap the kidney beans for something else?
Sure thing, black beans or pinto beans work great and bring a similar taste and feel.
- → How do I make it spicier or milder?
Change the cayenne pepper amount to your liking. You can also toss in red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- → Is browning the beef really needed before slow cooking?
Yep, browning beef gives it a nice caramelized edge and cuts down on extra grease for a better taste.
- → What are good toppings for this?
Try shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for a fresh and creamy touch that balances the strong flavors.
- → Can I cook this faster?
You can speed it up by cooking on high for 3-4 hours but going low and slow for 6-8 hours really makes it taste better and more tender.