Slow Cooker Beef & Bean Chili is a comforting, hearty dish that perfectly balances rich flavors, satisfying textures, and nourishing ingredients. It is one of those timeless recipes that works for busy weekdays, cozy weekends, family gatherings, and even meal prepping for the week ahead. By using a slow cooker, the flavors are given enough time to develop deeply, allowing the spices, beef, beans, and tomatoes to blend into a thick, robust chili that tastes even better with every passing hour.
This recipe is ideal for anyone who wants a filling meal without standing over the stove for long periods. The slow cooking process not only enhances flavor but also makes the beef incredibly tender while keeping the beans intact and creamy. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or preparing meals in advance, this Slow Cooker Beef & Bean Chili is dependable, customizable, and always satisfying. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with rice, bread, or toppings of your choice, making it a versatile classic worth keeping in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
- Stir in kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans.
- Add bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Stir occasionally if possible.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
Nutritional Facts and Total Calories (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Fiber: 12 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
Slow Cooker Beef & Bean Chili
Ingredient Notes
Ground Beef:
Ground beef forms the foundation of this chili, adding richness and depth. A lean cut such as 85% lean beef works best, as it provides flavor without making the chili overly greasy. Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances taste and texture.
Beans:
Kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans create a balanced combination of firmness, creaminess, and mild earthiness. Rinsing the beans removes excess sodium and improves overall flavor. You may substitute or adjust the types of beans depending on preference.
Crushed Tomatoes:
Crushed tomatoes provide the liquid base and acidity needed to balance the richness of the beef. They also contribute to the thick consistency of the chili.
Tomato Paste:
Tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and helps thicken the chili, creating a richer and more concentrated taste.
Onion:
Onions add natural sweetness and aroma, forming the flavor backbone of the chili. Finely chopped onions are distributed evenly throughout the dish.
Garlic:
Garlic enhances savory depth and adds warmth. Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
Bell Pepper:
Bell peppers bring mild sweetness, color, and texture. Green, red, or yellow peppers can be used based on preference.
Beef Broth:
Beef broth adds moisture and enhances the meaty flavor of the chili. Low-sodium broth is recommended for better salt control.
Chili Powder:
Chili powder delivers the signature chili flavor. It typically contains a blend of spices such as dried chilies, cumin, and garlic powder.
Ground Cumin:
Cumin adds warmth and an earthy note that complements the beef and beans beautifully.
Smoked Paprika:
Smoked paprika contributes subtle smokiness, giving the chili a deeper, more complex flavor.
Oregano:
Dried oregano adds a mild herbal note that balances the spices.
Salt and Black Pepper:
Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors in the dish.
Red Chili Flakes:
Optional for those who prefer additional heat. Adjust according to spice tolerance.
Olive Oil:
Used for sautéing the beef and vegetables, adding richness and preventing sticking.
Serving Instructions
Serve the Slow Cooker Beef & Bean Chili hot in bowls. It can be enjoyed plain or topped with sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro. For a heartier meal, serve it with rice, cornbread, crusty bread, or tortilla chips. Chili also pairs well with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
Tips
- Browning the beef before slow cooking significantly improves flavor.
- For thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Adjust spice levels gradually to avoid overpowering heat.
- Let the chili rest for 10–15 minutes before serving for better flavor development.
- Chili tastes even better the next day after flavors have fully melded.
Storage Information
Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until fully warmed.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, but beef provides the richest flavor.
2. Can this chili be made vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the beef and add more beans or vegetables such as mushrooms or lentils.
3. How can I make the chili spicier?
Increase chili powder, add cayenne pepper, or include fresh chopped jalapeños.
4. Can I cook this entirely in the slow cooker without browning the beef?
Yes, but browning improves flavor and texture significantly.
5. Is this chili suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it perfect for weekly meal preparation.
