This Rich & Thick Crockpot Chili is the ultimate comfort food for cozy nights, brimming with tender beef, robust beans, and smoky spices. Slow-cooked to perfection, it fills your home with a mouthwatering aroma. Serve it with cornbread or crackers for a hearty, satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Brown the Meat: Searing the beef before adding it to the crockpot enhances the flavor with a rich, caramelized depth.
- Layer Flavors: Add spices in stages—some during browning, some in the crockpot—for a more complex taste.
- Adjust Thickness: If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of broth; if too thin, mash some beans to thicken.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning near the end, as flavors meld over time.
- Low and Slow: Resist the urge to lift the lid often; it slows cooking and releases heat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chili is a game-changer for cozy nights in. Imagine curling up with a steaming bowl, the rich aroma of smoky spices and tender beef wafting through the air—it’s like a hug in food form. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming simple ingredients into a thick, flavorful masterpiece that’s hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest crowd. It’s versatile too—top it with cheese, sour cream, or green onions for a personal twist. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just craving comfort, this recipe delivers big on taste and ease, leaving you with minimal cleanup and maximum enjoyment.
Rich & Thick Crockpot Chili for Cozy Nights
A rich, thick chili slow-cooked to perfection, packed with beef, beans, and spices for cozy, comforting nights.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted optional)
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth, low-sodium
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
Instructions
- Hey there, chili lover! Let’s whip up something cozy and delicious together. Start by grabbing a skillet and heating up that tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat—let it shimmer like a little kitchen dance floor. Toss in your ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it sizzles and browns. This step’s key—it’s where the magic begins! Once it’s mostly cooked (about 5 minutes), sprinkle in half your chili powder and cumin to wake up those spices early. Give it a good stir, then scoop the beef into your crockpot, leaving the flavorful drippings behind.
- Next, toss your diced onion into that same skillet—let it soak up all that beefy goodness for about 3 minutes until it softens and smells amazing. Add the minced garlic for another 30 seconds (don’t burn it, we’re just saying hi!), then slide this aromatic duo into the crockpot too.
- Now, let’s build the chili! Dump in your kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and the rest of your spices—chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a big, happy stir until everything’s mingled and cozy. Pop the lid on your crockpot, set it to low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 if you’re in a hurry), and walk away. Yes, it’s that easy—let it simmer and meld into a thick, rich masterpiece.
- When it’s done, give it a taste—adjust the salt or spice if you’re feeling feisty. Serve it up hot with your favorite toppings—shredded cheese, sour cream, or a sprinkle of green onions—and watch everyone dig in with smiles. Cozy night, mission accomplished!
Notes
- For extra smokiness, toss in a chopped chipotle pepper from a can of adobo sauce.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—perfect for lunch!
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 527Total Fat 30gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 135mgSodium 948mgCarbohydrates 17gFiber 5gSugar 4gProtein 47g
The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 for a balance of flavor and fat; leaner cuts work but may lack richness.
- Kidney Beans: These add hearty texture; rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and improve flavor.
- Tomato Paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, giving the chili its signature depth—don’t skip it!
- Diced Tomatoes: Fire-roasted varieties bring a subtle smokiness, but regular ones are just as delicious.
- Chili Powder: The backbone of the dish; use a fresh, high-quality blend for the best kick.
- Cumin: Warm and earthy, it complements the chili powder and rounds out the spice profile.
- Beef Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the beefy flavor; low-sodium lets you control the salt.
- Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped provides a aromatic base—don’t substitute with powders if you can help it.
Variations and Substitutions
- Meat Swap: Try ground turkey or pork for a lighter or different flavor profile; chorizo adds a spicy twist.
- Bean Options: Swap kidney beans for black beans, pinto beans, or a mix for variety in texture and taste.
- Spice Level: Dial up the heat with cayenne or fresh jalapeños, or keep it mild by reducing chili powder.
- Vegetarian Twist: Skip the meat and double the beans, adding mushrooms or lentils for umami richness.
- Sweet Touch: A teaspoon of cocoa powder or a splash of coffee deepens the flavor unexpectedly.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, just ensure your broth and toppings (like crackers) align if needed.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; flavors deepen overnight!
- Freezer: Freeze in portions (use freezer-safe bags or containers) for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Dish Gallery
Please share this Rich & Thick Crockpot Chili for Cozy Nights with your friends and do a comment below about your feedback.
We will meet you on next article.
Until you can read, Hearty Vegetarian Slow Cooker Chili