Are you craving a hearty, flavorful chili but want to skip the beans? This crock pot chili recipe is the perfect solution! It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with deliciousness, and requires minimal hands-on time. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready for a bowl of comfort food that’s both satisfying and healthy!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Rotel, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, and beef broth.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or chopped cilantro.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Chili:
- Don't Overcrowd Your Crock Pot: Ensure you have enough space in your slow cooker for the ingredients to cook evenly.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicier chili, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Thicken It Up: If your chili is too thin after cooking, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce the liquid. You could also whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water.
- Make it Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. This makes it an excellent meal prep option for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Variations:
- Beef and Bean Chili: For a heartier chili, add a can of your favorite beans (kidney beans, pinto beans, or black beans) during the last hour of cooking.
- Chicken Chili: Substitute 1.5 lbs of cooked shredded chicken for the ground beef.
- Vegetarian Chili: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This delicious and easy crock pot chili recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy the homemade cooking experience and the wonderful flavors! It’s a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can easily create. Enjoy!