Easy Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based protein)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth (for added flavor and consistency)
• 1 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Sliced green onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced avocado
• Tortilla chips or cornbread on the side

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ground Meat:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Drain any excess grease.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
   • Add the cooked ground beef, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, and broth to the slow cooker.
3. Add Seasonings:
   • Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Cooking longer allows the flavors to meld better.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve with Toppings:
   • Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or avocado.

Tips:

• Thicker Chili: For a thicker chili, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes, or mash some of the beans with a fork.
• Spiciness: If you like it extra spicy, add more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.

This chili reheats beautifully, so leftovers make a great meal too!