Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chili: Hearty Comfort Food

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Slow Cooker Ground Beef is a fantastic way to prepare a hearty meal that is both comforting and easy to make. This Classic Slow Cooker Chili recipe combines lean ground beef, beans, diced tomatoes, and a flavorful blend of chili spices for a satisfying dish. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners as it simmers all day to develop rich flavors, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal with minimal effort. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ground Beef

There are numerous reasons to love this slow cooker beef recipe. Firstly, it’s a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy families. Secondly, the combination of ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that is both hearty and satisfying. This recipe is also packed with protein from the ground beef and beans, ensuring it keeps you full. Additionally, it’s flexible; you can add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize it according to your taste. Surprising guests with a delicious dish has never been easier, and it’s perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy easy slow cooker ground beef meals throughout the week. Lastly, it’s a family favorite, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Ground Beef

Gather these items:

2 lb lean Ground Beef (90/10 or 93/7)
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
30 oz kidney beans (two 15oz cans), drained and rinsed
30 oz diced tomatoes with juice
10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice
30 oz tomato sauce
2 tsp cumin powder
2 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper

How to Make Slow Cooker Ground Beef Step-by-Step

Step 1: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the ground beef for 4-5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it releases its fat and is no longer pink.
Step 2: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender. Add the minced garlic along with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly and cook for an additional 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
Step 3: Transfer the cooked beef mixture from the skillet into a 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 4: Into the slow cooker, add the drained and rinsed black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juice, diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice, and tomato sauce. Stir everything together to combine well.
Step 5: Cook the chili on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
Step 6: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the chili warm for a hearty meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Ground Beef

Keep these in mind:

Always brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker to enhance the flavor.
Feel free to add chopped bell peppers or corn for added sweetness and texture.
Consider using low-sodium beans and tomatoes for a healthier option, especially if you are monitoring sodium intake.
For extra heat, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to your chili.

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chili: Hearty Comfort Food - Slow Cooker Ground Beef - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Ground Beef

There are several delicious ways to enjoy your slow cooker recipes with ground beef. Serve it over rice for a filling meal, or use it as a topping for baked potatoes. You can also pair it with cornbread for a classic touch or use it as a filling for tacos, making a great ground beef tacos slow cooker method!

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Ground Beef

To store any leftovers, allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, simply warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through. This chili is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Ground Beef

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Ground Beef?

The secret lies in browning the ground beef and spices before adding them to the slow cooker. This enhances the depth of flavor significantly.

Can I make Slow Cooker Ground Beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Ground Beef?

Make sure not to overfill your slow cooker, as it can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended cooking times for the best results.

Variations of Slow Cooker Ground Beef You Can Try

Here are some variations to consider: You can make a slow cooker beef and vegetable stew by adding carrots and potatoes. For a healthier option, use lean turkey instead of beef. You might also experiment with different beans or add a splash of hot sauce for extra kick!

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chili: Hearty Comfort Food - Slow Cooker Ground Beef - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Slow Cooker Maple Brown or Sizzling Cheesy Beef Rice. If you’re interested in meal prep, you might also enjoy Creamy Vegetable Soup for a healthy option!