Do I have to brown the meat first for Crock Pot Chili?

No, you don’t have to brown the meat, but it does add extra flavor. Browning the beef before adding it to the Crock Pot helps develop a richer, deeper taste. If you're short on time, you can skip this step and simply add the raw meat directly to the slow cooker.

Can I skip the beans or use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can skip the beans if you prefer a meatier chili. Canned beans are a great alternative to dried beans, as they save time and are just as tasty. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the slow cooker to avoid excess sodium.

How do I make Crock Pot Chili spicier or milder?

To make your chili spicier, add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce. For a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit any spicy peppers or hot sauce. Taste as you go to achieve your preferred heat level.

Can I make Crock Pot Chili in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make Crock Pot Chili in an Instant Pot. Simply use the 'Slow Cook' function on your Instant Pot and follow the same recipe. You can also speed up the cooking process by using the 'Pressure Cook' function, which will cook the chili in a fraction of the time.

How long will leftover Crock Pot Chili keep in the fridge?

Leftover chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–5 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to store it for a longer period, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Crock Pot Chili: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Busy Nights

Description

A rich, hearty **Crock Pot Chili** made with lean ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, simmered to perfection for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cans (15 oz each) of beans (kidney, black, or pinto)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Brown the ground beef in a pan and drain any excess fat.
Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the Crock Pot.
Add all remaining ingredients to the Crock Pot and stir.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Serve with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

Notes

For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
If you prefer a leaner version, substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
This chili freezes well; store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 350
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 900mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 50mg