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Crockpot chili with ground beef, beans, and toppings in a rustic bowl

Easy Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef

This Easy Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef is hearty, comforting, and packed with bold flavor. A perfect dump-and-go recipe for busy weeknights or game day, it combines beans, tomatoes, spices, and ground beef into a satisfying bowl of chili the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main
Cuisine: American
Calories: 395
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chili Base
  • 1.5 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 15 oz diced tomatoes
  • 15 oz kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 15 oz black beans drained and rinsed
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
Spices & Seasonings
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp salt or to taste
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • cayenne or red pepper flakes optional pinch
Liquid & Extras
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • shredded cheddar optional topping
  • sour cream optional topping
  • chopped cilantro optional topping
  • sliced jalapeños optional topping

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Skillet
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion, green pepper, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and soft.
  3. Transfer the beef and vegetables to the crockpot. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained beans, spices, and beef broth.
  4. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
  6. 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cook uncovered to thicken if necessary.
  7. Serve warm with optional toppings like cheddar, sour cream, cilantro, or jalapeños.

Notes

Use lean ground beef or substitute with turkey or chicken. Use smoked paprika or chipotle for smoky flavor. Stir in cocoa powder or dark chocolate for richness.