Slow Cooker Chili with a Secret Ingredient

This Slow Cooker Chili with a Secret Ingredient features hearty beans and a surprising twist. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s a simple recipe that blends rich, spicy flavors into a nutritious dish with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker chili with a secret ingredient is a nutritious, hearty dinner option that transforms hearty beans with a surprising twist into a flavorful delight, perfect for a cozy meal. Easy to prepare with hands-off cooking, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and unique taste. Versatile—top with cheese or serve with cornbread—this recipe offers a delicious and wholesome indulgence.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Sauté Aromatics: Enhances flavor base.
• Use Fresh Spices: Adds better taste and aroma.
• Cook on Low: Ensures deep flavor development.
• Stir Occasionally: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Check Consistency: Should be thick but not dry.
• Avoid Overfilling: Leaves room for ingredients to meld.
• Serve Warm: Maximizes the cozy appeal.
• Adjust Heat: Taste and tweak chili powder to preference.
• Rest Before Serving: Allows flavors to meld.
• Add Secret Last: Preserves its unique impact.

Yield: 8 servings

Slow Cooker Chili with a Secret Ingredient

Print

Hearty chili with secret twist, slow cooked meal.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 large onion
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 oz dark chocolate
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cups kidney beans
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Prep the Aromatics: Chop onion and mince garlic.
2. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain excess fat and transfer to slow cooker.
3. Add Veggies: Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add kidney beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of black pepper.
5. Season the Mixture: Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
6. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
7. Add Secret Ingredient: Stir in dark chocolate during the last 30 minutes of cooking until melted and blended.
8. Check Consistency: Ensure the chili is thick and flavorful; add a splash of water if too dense.
9. Rest the Chili: Let it sit for 10 minutes with the lid off to thicken slightly.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm with your favorite toppings, savoring this unique, hearty chili!

Notes

• Sauté aromatics for flavor; use fresh spices for aroma.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; add secret ingredient last for impact.
• Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness; reheat gently to preserve moisture.
• This recipe can be adapted for vegetarian or gluten-free diets with appropriate swaps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 257Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 51mgSodium 664mgCarbohydrates 18gFiber 5gSugar 5gProtein 21g

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 (1 lb): Lean, for heartiness.
• Kidney Beans (2 cups): Canned or cooked, for texture.
• Tomato Sauce (2 cups): For rich base.
• Onion (1 large): Chopped, for aroma.
• Garlic (3 cloves): Minced for depth.
• Chili Powder (1 tbsp): For heat and flavor.
• Cumin (1 tsp): Ground, for warmth.
• Dark Chocolate (1 oz): Secret ingredient, for depth.
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper (½ tsp): Ground for a subtle kick.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Swap: Use turkey or plant-based crumbles.
• Bean Swap: Replace kidney beans with black beans.
• Tomato Swap: Use diced tomatoes for texture.
• Veggie Swap: Add bell peppers or corn.
• Spice Swap: Use smoked paprika instead of chili powder.
• Chocolate Swap: Use cocoa powder in a pinch.
• Onion Swap: Use shallots for milder flavor.
• Low-Sodium: Reduce or skip salt based on sauce.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat on stovetop.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw in fridge.
• Reheating: Warm on low heat with a splash of water.

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Until you can read, Slow Cooker Balsamic Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Veggies