Looking for a warm, satisfying dish that practically makes itself? Try Easy Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef.
I’m John, a trained chef from Alabama, and I believe delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. After years in professional kitchens, I launched Giddy Recipes so anyone—busy parents, college students, or home cooks—can enjoy tasty meals with minimal fuss.
Table of Contents
Easy Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onion, green pepper, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and soft.
- Transfer the beef and vegetables to the crockpot. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained beans, spices, and beef broth.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cook uncovered to thicken if necessary.
- Serve warm with optional toppings like cheddar, sour cream, cilantro, or jalapeños.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set it and forget it — prep in 10 minutes, then let the crockpot do the work.
- Big on flavor, low on effort. Packed with beans, tomato, spices, and beef.
- Feeds a crowd or leaves great leftovers. Perfect for game day or weeknight dinners.
- Comforting and hearty. With every spoonful, you’ll get warmth, spice, and satisfaction.
Ingredients Needed
Chili Base
- 1½ lb (680 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes
Liquid & Extras
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños
Note: You can adjust beans or omit one kind if you prefer. Use low-sodium broth to control salt.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef
- Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic in the same skillet for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Combine ingredients: Transfer the beef and vegetables to the crockpot. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, spices, and beef broth.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Adjust seasoning about 30 minutes before done — add salt, pepper, or cayenne to taste.
- Serve with your favorite toppings: cheddar, sour cream, cilantro, jalapeño slices, etc.
Tips & cues:
- The chili is done when flavors meld and it thickens slightly.
- If too thin, you can uncover the crockpot in the last 30 minutes to let liquid reduce.
- For more depth, stir in a little cocoa powder or dark chocolate at the end (optional secret trick).
Serving & Storage Tips
- Let chili rest for 10 minutes before serving to settle and thicken.
- Serve over rice, with cornbread, or on its own.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in portions (in freezer-safe bags or containers) for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on stovetop or in microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Helpful Notes
- For leaner protein, use 90% lean ground beef or mix beef + turkey.
- Use a 4–6 quart crockpot for best results (avoid crowding).
- Taste early — chili intensifies as it cooks, so season gradually.
- If you like smoky flavor, use smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper in adobo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it okay to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken. You may want to brown it first and add a little extra fat or broth for flavor.
Can I skip one type of bean?
Absolutely. You can use one type of bean or even eliminate beans if you prefer a more “meaty” chili.
How thick should the chili be when it’s done?
It should be thick but spoonable. If it’s still soupy, cook uncovered for the last 20–30 minutes to reduce.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but make sure your crockpot can accommodate the extra volume. You may need to increase cooking time slightly.
Conclusion
Easy Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping ahead for busy nights, it’s a go‑to option you’ll return to again and again. The crockpot does the heavy lifting; you enjoy warm, comforting chili full of beans, tomato, spice, and satisfying beef.