Easy Crockpot Chili Recipe

Easy Crockpot Chili

This crockpot chili recipe pulls off the trifecta of pleasure: rich, comforting, and delicious! Making chili in a slow cooker allows all the different flavors to meld together. The beef gets so tender, and everything just tastes amazing. Everyone will love this hearty beef chili. It’s a real crowd pleaser! Serve it up with a side of fresh cornbread, add your favorite toppings, and you’re good to go. Yum! This crockpot beef chili is one of my favorite recipes to make for game day. It’s super easy to make (you can even make it ahead of time), it feeds a lot of people, and it tastes amazing with all kinds of foods. It makes a great main to serve with appetizers and snacks!

Ingredients

Beef: Use ground chuck, and be sure to brown it before adding it into the chili. Beans: We’re using a mix of black beans and red beans. Drain & rinse first. Tomatoes: Use tomato puree and diced tomatoes. This makes for a great texture! Onion: I recommend using yellow onions for this recipe. Chili Seasoning: Make your own chili seasoning, or use your favorite blend!

There’s plenty more in this slow cooker chili recipe to create the perfect flavor (like garlic, ketchup, and Worcestershire)! Be sure to check the recipe card for the full list.

How To Make Chili in a Crockpot (Step By Step)

You can jump to the recipe card for full ingredients & instructions!

Serving Suggestions

This slow cooker beef chili is so hearty and filling, but I always serve it along with some sort of bread or side dish to finish off the meal. Here are my favorites!

Cornbread Baked Potato Grilled Cheese Buttermilk Biscuits

Crockpot Chili Toppings

Every good bowl of chili needs some toppings for extra texture and flavor. Don’t get me wrong, it tastes amazing as it is. But I love to add cheese, crackers, and other things to switch things up.

Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top and watch it melt! Sour Cream Onions: Add an extra dose of diced onions, or try caramelized onions. Sliced Jalapenos Crackers: Crumble up some crackers to add on top, or add those little oyster crackers. Fritos: I love adding Frito’s, or tortilla chip strips, on top for some crunch. Chopped Avocado: This adds a creamy, fresh flavor.

Can You Freeze Crockpot Chili?

This slow cooker beef chili is also a super freezer-friendly recipe that you can make and save for months! To freeze leftovers: let it cool, then scoop into small portion freezer containers (resealable bags work great) to freeze. To reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then cook in the slow crockpot on LOW until warmed through. It’s best to eat it within two months so it still contains the same fresh flavor and thick texture. The longer it’s kept frozen, the more the flavor and texture changes.

Can you put raw meat in slow cooker for chili?

Technically, if the meat gets to a high enough temperature fast enough (140 degrees F in less than 2 hours), it is food safe, but to make 100% certain you’re being food safe, it is not recommended. Beyond the safety considerations, you’ll also be missing out on major flavor development that browning the beef provides! By browning the meat before adding it in, you’re developing deeper and richer flavors. So when we’re talking chili in a crockpot, it’s best to brown the meat first! This crockpot chili recipe will be your new go-to! It’s easy, delicious, comforting, and definitely a family favorite. Make some to keep in the fridge or freezer for easy weeknight dinners, or cook up a batch for guests!