Classic Slow Cooker Chili: The Ultimate Comfort Food Fix

If you’ve ever found yourself reveling in the aroma of a slowly simmering pot, you’re not alone. Classic Slow Cooker Chili has been a staple in my kitchen, evoking memories of cozy evenings and family gatherings. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition that warms both the heart and home.

For me, Classic Slow Cooker Chili encapsulates the essence of comfort and simplicity. From the moment you brown the ground beef to the final stir before serving, every step in the process feels like a cherished ritual. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether you’re enjoying it on a bustling game day or a quiet night in.

Cooking shouldn’t be complicated, and that’s why I love this Classic Slow Cooker Chili. With its rich flavors and straightforward preparation, it’s a recipe that invites creativity while also delivering on taste. The blend of spices, the hearty mix of beans, and the vibrant vegetables come together to create a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and nostalgic.

Every pot of Classic Slow Cooker Chili tells a story, a narrative of flavors that has been perfected over time. It’s a dish that celebrates the beauty of homemade cooking, inviting you to savor each spoonful. Let’s dive into the fundamentals of creating this timeless recipe.

Classic Slow Cooker Chili

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• Author: Aria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours
• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Discover how to make the perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili with this easy recipe. Learn the secrets to a hearty and delicious meal that your whole family will love!

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Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (900 g)
• 2 green bell peppers, diced (2)
• 1 large onion, diced (1)
• 2 jalapeños, diced with seeds and white insides removed (optional) (2)
• 1 15oz can kidney beans (425 g)
• 1 15oz can black beans (425 g)
• 1 15oz can diced tomatoes (425 g)
• 1 46oz can tomato juice (1.3 L)
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) chili powder
• 2 teaspoons (10 ml) cumin
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) onion powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) ground pepper
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Warm a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Let it brown for 8 to 10 minutes until mostly cooked with minimal pink remaining. Remove any excess liquid and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. Place the diced green bell peppers and onion into the slow cooker. Without draining, add the kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Incorporate the chili powder, cumin, onion powder, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, ground pepper, and, if desired, red pepper flakes.
3. Gradually pour in the tomato juice. Gently stir all the ingredients until well combined. Set to cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours.

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Notes

• For a spicier flavor, add diced jalapeños with seeds and white insides removed to suit your heat preference.
• Enhance the taste by toasting chili powder, cumin, and other spices in a dry skillet before adding to the slow cooker.
• Adjust the chili’s thickness by adding more tomato juice or water to achieve desired consistency.

Classic Slow Cooker Chili: The Heart of Comfort Cooking

Fundamentals

The foundation of a great Classic Slow Cooker Chili lies in its ingredients. Starting with 2 pounds of ground beef, this dish promises a robust and savory flavor. The addition of green bell peppers and a large onion enhances the dish with a fresh and slightly sweet undertone.

The choice of beans is crucial. A 15-ounce can each of kidney beans and black beans offers a satisfying texture and contrast. These beans, rich in protein and fiber, are essential for the hearty nature of chili. A can of diced tomatoes and a generous 46-ounce can of tomato juice bring a tangy depth and a perfect base for the spices.

Spices are the soul of the chili. With two tablespoons of chili powder leading the charge, supported by cumin, onion powder, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper, the blend creates a warm, aromatic profile. For those who crave an extra kick, red pepper flakes and jalapeños offer an optional fiery boost.

Preparation/setup

Begin by warming a skillet over medium heat, adding the ground beef. Break it apart as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly for about 8 to 10 minutes. Once it’s mostly cooked with just a hint of pink, remove any excess liquid and transfer the beef to your slow cooker.

Next, add the diced green bell peppers and onion directly into the slow cooker. Without draining, pour in the kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes. This method ensures that all the flavorful juices are retained, adding depth to the chili.

Now, it’s time to incorporate the spices. Add the chili powder, cumin, onion powder, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper. If you prefer a spicier chili, include the red pepper flakes and jalapeños. Gradually pour in the tomato juice, stirring gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Set the slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6 to 8 hours.

Mastering the Art of Slow Cooking

Technique

The beauty of Classic Slow Cooker Chili lies in the art of slow cooking. This technique allows flavors to meld and deepen over time, creating a rich and cohesive dish. The key is patience; letting the chili cook slowly ensures that each ingredient contributes its unique essence to the final product.

Slow cooking also tenderizes the meat, allowing it to absorb the spices fully. The gradual heat helps break down the fibers, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This method is ideal for busy days when you can set it and forget it, returning to a beautifully cooked meal.

Tips/tricks

For a thicker chili, consider mashing some of the beans before adding them to the slow cooker. This will naturally thicken the dish without the need for additional ingredients.

Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking. If you’re serving a crowd with varied spice preferences, offer toppings like sour cream or shredded cheese to help mellow the heat. Alternatively, you can serve the chili with a side of Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole for a complementary dish that pairs perfectly.

If you’re a fan of experimenting with flavors, try adding a dash of cocoa powder or a square of dark chocolate. This adds a surprising depth and richness that complements the spices beautifully.

Perfecting Your Classic Chili

Perfecting results

A successful Classic Slow Cooker Chili balances flavors and textures. Taste your chili about an hour before it’s done to adjust the seasoning if necessary. Adding more salt or spices at this stage allows them to integrate fully before serving.

Don’t underestimate the power of a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving. This adds a refreshing brightness that enhances all the other flavors.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your chili is too thin, remove the lid of the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes to let some liquid evaporate. Conversely, if it’s too thick, add a splash of tomato juice or broth to reach your desired consistency.

For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and double the amount of beans. You can also add a variety of vegetables such as zucchini or corn for added texture and flavor. This variation pairs wonderfully with Slow Cooker Pinto Beans Green Chile and Beef.

If you love a bit of southern flair, consider serving your chili over a bed of rice or alongside some Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples for a sweet and savory contrast.

Serving and Storing Classic Chili

Serving/presentation

Presentation matters, even with a humble dish like chili. Serve it in deep bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a handful of crushed tortilla chips adds a delightful crunch and creaminess.

For a fun twist, consider serving your chili in a bread bowl or over a baked potato. This not only makes for a visually appealing presentation but also adds layers of texture and flavor.

Pairings/storage

Pair your Classic Slow Cooker Chili with a side of cornbread or warm tortillas for a complete meal. This combination is a crowd-pleaser and complements the chili’s robust flavors perfectly.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Chili tends to taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. For longer storage, freeze the chili in individual portions for up to three months. This makes it easy to reheat a quick meal on busy days.

If you’re hosting a party or game day, consider making a batch of Venison Chili Cheese Dip for a delicious appetizer that complements the main dish. This dip is sure to be a hit with guests and adds variety to your spread.

Conclusion

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a slow cooking process. By following these steps, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also deeply satisfying. The combination of flavors and textures makes this chili a standout meal for any occasion.

This recipe showcases the versatility and comfort that a well-made chili can bring. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, using it in creative recipes like Chili Verde Burritos with Hatch Green Chile Sauce, or enjoying it as leftovers, its appeal is undeniable.

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. It’s a dish that brings people together, creating lasting memories around the dinner table. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s no wonder that this chili has become a beloved staple in kitchens everywhere.

FAQs – Classic Slow Cooker Chili