Hearty Crockpot Chili Recipe with Beef and Beans

Introduction

This hearty crockpot chili recipe with beef and beans is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and using everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The slow-cooked beef and beans are simmered in a rich and tangy tomato-based broth, resulting in a deliciously flavorful and comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a weekend meal prepper, this recipe is a great way to warm up and satisfy your loved ones.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in this recipe is key, with the sweetness of the tomatoes, the savory flavor of the beef, and the slight smokiness of the chili powder all coming together to create a truly delicious taste experience.
• The accessibility of the ingredients is another major advantage, as you likely already have most of the necessary items in your pantry, and the rest can be easily found at your local grocery store.
• Perhaps the best part of this recipe, however, is the ease of preparation. Simply brown the beef, add the remaining ingredients to the crockpot, and let the slow cooker do the rest. It’s a great way to cook a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked kidney beans
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Step 2: Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Step 3: Add the chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
4. Step 4: Transfer the beef and spice mixture to the crockpot, then add the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and water. Stir to combine, then cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Step 5: When the chili is hot and the flavors have melded together, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro.

Handy Tips

• If you prefer a thicker chili, you can add a little cornstarch or flour to the pot and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
• To add some extra heat to your chili, you can add diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the pot.
• If you don’t have ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or ground pork.

Heat Control

The heat level of this chili is adjustable, depending on your personal preference. If you like a milder chili, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. If you like a spicier chili, you can add more cayenne pepper or introduce other spicy elements, such as diced jalapenos or serrano peppers.

Crunch Factor

This chili has a hearty, comforting texture, with the slow-cooked beef and beans providing a satisfying bite. If you want to add some extra crunch to your chili, you can top it with crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, or diced onions.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To get the best flavor out of your chili, use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh spices and canned tomatoes that are free of added salt and sugar.
• To prevent the chili from becoming too thick, you can add a little water to the pot as it cooks.
• To make themost of your crockpot, cook the chili on low for 6-8 hours, which will allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.

Storage Tips

• This chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, cool the chili to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• To reheat the chili, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the crockpot or on the stovetop until hot and bubbly.
• When storing the chili, be sure to label the container with the date and contents, and store it in a cool, dry place.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This chili is a great gift idea for friends and family, especially during the cold winter months. To package the chili as a gift, simply transfer it to a decorative container, such as a ceramic crock or a glass jar, and add a gift tag or card with serving instructions and a personal message.

Flavor Variations

• To add a smoky flavor to your chili, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of liquid smoke to the pot.
• To give your chili a spicy kick, you can add diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the pot.
• To add some extra depth to your chili, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder or chocolate chips to the pot.

Troubleshooting

• If your chili is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or broth.
• If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it with a little cornstarch or flour.
• If your chili is too spicy, you can reduce the heat by adding a little dairy, such as sour cream or yogurt, or by introducing a sweet element, such as diced carrots or sweet potatoes.

FAQs

• Can I freeze this chili? Yes, this chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply cool it to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Is this chili gluten-free? Yes, this chili is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double this recipe? Yes, this recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and cook the chili in a larger crockpot or Dutch oven.

Conclusion

This hearty crockpot chili recipe with beef and beans is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich and tangy flavor, hearty texture, and ease of preparation, it’s a great option for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep. Whether you’re a chili novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the warm and comforting goodness of a homemade chili.