Can I make this crockpot chili recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make this crockpot chili recipe vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef. You can replace it with additional beans (like pinto or cannellini beans), lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You might want to add a dash of soy sauce or vegan Worcestershire sauce for extra umami depth.

Do I have to brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker?

While technically you don't 'have' to, browning the ground beef before adding it to your crockpot chili recipe is highly recommended. This crucial step caramelizes the meat, developing rich flavors and textures that you wouldn't get from simply adding raw beef. It adds a significant depth to the overall taste of the chili.

How long does crockpot chili last in the refrigerator?

This crockpot chili recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. For longer storage, chili freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months.

What are the best toppings for this crockpot chili recipe?

The best toppings for this crockpot chili recipe include shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and crunchy tortilla chips. You can also add diced avocado, a squeeze of lime juice, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra flavor.

crockpot chili recipe: 10 Steps to the Ultimate Cozy Comfort Bowl

Name: Ultimate Cozy Crockpot Chili Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended); 1 large onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, undrained; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup beef broth; 3 tbsp chili powder; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 cup frozen corn (optional); Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 large onion, chopped
1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup beef broth
3 tbsp chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 cup frozen corn (optional)
Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips

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Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker.
Step 4: Add the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans (drained and rinsed), black beans (drained and rinsed), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if using) to the slow cooker.
Step 5: Stir everything thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 6: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
Step 7: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the corn (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 8: Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, and tortilla chips.

Notes

For an even richer flavor, let the chili sit in the refrigerator overnight; it often tastes even better the next day! Adjust spice levels to your preference, and feel free to mix and match your favorite beans.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 850 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 10 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition

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