Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

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This slow cooker chili is one of those go-to recipes every mom need in her back pocket! It’s comforting, loaded with flavor, and perfect for feeding a hungry family (plus it makes amazing leftovers). The best part? You can toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you take care of your day.

Why This Recipe Works for Families

This chili is super flexible. Not only does it feed a crowd, but it freezes beautifully and makes lunch the next day feel brand new. It’s also a sneaky way to get kids involved in the kitchen. Measuring spices? Stirring the pot? Big wins!

Servings: 10
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes (on high) or 6–8 hours (on low)
Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes, with their juice
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilis, with their juice
• 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce

What You’ll Need: 6-quart slow cooker

How to Make It

1. Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Cook the ground beef for about 4–5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s browned and smells amazing.
2. Add onion and garlic: Stir in the diced onion and cook another 4–5 minutes until it’s soft and golden. Add garlic and spices: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds to wake up those flavors.
3. Transfer to your slow cooker: Scoop that delicious beef mixture into your slow cooker.
4. Dump and stir: Add the drained beans, both kinds of tomatoes (yes, juices too!), and tomato sauce. Give it a big stir.
5. Set it and forget it: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Your house is going to smell so good!
6. Taste test: Before serving, give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Favorite Chili Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese (because cheese makes everything better!)
• Chopped green onions
• A dollop of sour cream
• Avocado slices
• Crushed tortilla chips
• A few jalapeño slices if you like a little kick

Easy Ways to Serve It

• Classic bowl: Just chili and your fave toppings.
• Chili dogs: Spoon over hot dogs and sprinkle with cheese.
• Over baked potatoes: Total comfort food.
• Chili dip: Heat with cheese for an easy appetizer.

Make It Your Own

• Want it spicier? Add 1/2 tsp cayenne or extra chili powder.
• Lower sodium option: Use low-sodium beans and sauce.
• Meatless version: Swap beef for lentils or plant-based ground.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 340
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 56mg
• Sodium: 889mg
• Potassium: 1356mg
• Carbs: 41g
• Fiber: 13g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 33g

Disclaimer: Nutrition info is based on estimates and can vary. For exact details, consult a nutritionist.

This slow cooker chili is a total lifesaver on busy days. Throw it together in the morning, and dinner practically cooks itself. Leftovers? They’re even better the next day. Enjoy, mama-you’ve earned it!