Hearty Homemade Chili Recipe in the Crockpot
Chili is the ultimate comfort food, especially when it’s made from scratch in a crockpot. This hearty homemade chili recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering with friends and family. With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, it’s bound to become a staple in your home. Plus, the crockpot makes it even easier to create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Make Chili in a Crockpot?
Crockpot cooking is a fantastic way to develop deep flavors in your meals. As the ingredients simmer together over several hours, they meld perfectly, creating a rich and hearty dish. Not only does this method save you time, but it also allows you to prepare meals ahead of time, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked meat to the crockpot and add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve hot, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro.
Tips for the Perfect Chili
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier chili, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to taste.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or additional beans.
Storing and Reheating
This chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
This hearty homemade chili recipe is sure to be a hit at your next meal. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, your crockpot will be your best friend in the kitchen. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite toppings, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!
