Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans

When chilly evenings beckon, nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of homemade chili. Picture this: the rich fragrance of savory ground beef mingling with earthy beans and a medley of spices, slowly simmering in the crockpot as you go about your day. This Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans isn't just another recipe; it's the solution for your busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the fuss.

I was inspired to whip up this hearty dish after a long day, seeking something nourishing yet simple. The beauty lies in its flexibility-I love to experiment with vibrant toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream, each adding a delightful twist. With just a little prep, you can enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that delights the whole family, all while your slow cooker does the heavy lifting.

So, if you're ready to swap fast food for a wholesome home-cooked dish that's bursting with flavor, let's dive into this delicious chili recipe that will keep you cozy and satisfied all season long!

Why is Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: This chili warms your soul, making it perfect for chilly evenings with its hearty flavors and aromas.
Effortless Prep: Simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do all the work-making it ideal for busy lives.
Customizable Goodness: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream for a personalized touch that elevates each bowl.
Family Favorite: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish satisfies even the hungriest family members, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
Make-Ahead Magic: It's great for meal prepping; the flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier.
Swap fast food for flavor and nourishment-your taste buds will thank you!

Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans Ingredients

For the Chili Base
• Ground Beef - Choose lean ground beef for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
• Kidney Beans - Adds fiber and richness; rinse canned beans before use to reduce sodium.
• Pinto Beans - Contributes creaminess; feel free to substitute with your preferred beans.
• Crushed Tomatoes - Provides a flavorful base; swap with fresh tomatoes if you prefer.
• Tomato Paste - Thickens the chili and intensifies the tomato flavor; extra crushed tomatoes work as a substitute.
• Onion - Enhance sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions work beautifully.
• Garlic - Boosts flavor and richness, making your chili even more savory.
• Bell Pepper (optional) - Adds sweetness and color; choose any color for a pop of flavor.

For the Spices
• Chili Powder - The primary spice that gives your chili its hearty, robust taste; adjust based on your spice preference.
• Cumin - Infuses the chili with an earthy aroma; essential for flavor depth.
• Smoked Paprika - Adds a delightful smoky note; regular paprika can substitute if needed.

For Cooking
• Beef Broth - Blends all the flavors together; opt for low-sodium for a healthier version.
• Salt and Pepper - Essential for seasoning; customize to your taste for that perfect finish.

With these ingredients in hand, you'll be well on your way to crafting a bowl of Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Enjoy the journey as your crockpot transforms them into a comforting masterpiece!

How to Make Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans

Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef in a splash of olive oil until fully cooked, roughly 5-7 minutes. Drain the excess fat for a lighter chili.
Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the browned beef to your crockpot. Layer in diced onion and minced garlic, and if you wish, toss in diced bell pepper for an extra flavor boost.
Add the Base Ingredients: Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are combined.
Pour in the Beef Broth: Carefully pour the beef broth over the mixture, stirring gently to ensure that spices and flavors are evenly distributed throughout the chili.
Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook your chili on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for about 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together beautifully.
Taste and Adjust: Once cooked, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle your hearty chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings like avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

Optional: Top with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans

Fridge: Store your chili in airtight containers for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy leftovers without losing flavor.

Freezer: Freeze portions in resealable bags or airtight containers for up to 3 months. Lay bags flat while freezing for efficient storage.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in a pot over medium heat or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Make-Ahead Tip: This Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance for a delicious meal later!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on meal prep! You can brown the ground beef and prep all the vegetables (diced onions, minced garlic, and optional bell peppers) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them separately in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can combine the beans, crushed tomatoes, and spices in another container for easy assembly. When you're ready to cook, just add the browned beef, prepped ingredients, and beef broth to your crockpot, and let it simmer. This way, you'll still achieve that delicious, hearty flavor while making your weeknight cooking even easier!

What to Serve with Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans?

There's nothing quite like enjoying a comforting meal, especially when it's paired with delicious sides and toppings to elevate your dining experience.

Cornbread: Its sweet flavor and warm, crumbly texture are perfect for soaking up the chili, adding a delightful contrast. Each bite brings a bit of Southern charm to your table.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve these crunchy chips on the side for a satisfying crunch that complements the rich chili. They add an exciting texture contrast that the whole family will love.
Fresh Green Salad: A light, zesty salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the chili's richness, providing a refreshing palate cleanse between bites. Toss in some avocado or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor!
Shredded Cheese: Top your chili with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese for creaminess that melts beautifully, making every spoonful rich and satisfying.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or creamy Greek yogurt adds a tangy contrast to the chili's spices, cooling down the heat for those who prefer milder flavors.
Pickled Jalapeños: For those who like a spicy kick, these zesty pickled jalapeños provide both heat and a burst of flavor that elevates the entire bowl of chili.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado offers a delicious richness that pairs wonderfully with the hearty chili, enhancing each spoonful with its smooth texture.
Beer or Cider: Pair your meal with a cold beer or a refreshing cider to complement the hearty flavors of the chili, making it the perfect end to a cool evening.

Enjoy a delightful culinary journey by mixing and matching these accompaniments, turning your Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans into an unforgettable feast!

Expert Tips for Easy Crockpot Chili

Brown the Meat First: Always brown the ground beef before adding it to the crockpot. This step enhances the chili's flavor and richness.
Rinse Canned Beans: To lower sodium levels, make sure to rinse canned beans before adding them to your Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili.
Avoid Over-Stirring: Stir gently during preparation and cooking to keep the beans intact and maintain the chili's texture.
Thicken as Needed: If you prefer a thicker chili, cook uncovered for the last 20 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
Customize Your Toppings: Get creative with toppings like avocado, cheese, or sour cream for added flavor and texture-it helps make each bowl unique!
Make Ahead for Best Flavor: Prepare your chili a day in advance; chilling overnight allows the flavors to deepen and intensify.

Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to this chili recipe with these fun and delightful variations!

Turkey Substitute: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner yet equally flavorful chili experience.
Veggie Boost: Toss in sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers to amp up the nutrition and color with every bite.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to ignite your taste buds.
Chocolate Twist: Incorporate a small piece of dark chocolate or cocoa powder for a rich, complex flavor that surprises.
Beans Galore: Experiment with different beans like black beans or chickpeas for a unique flavor profile and texture.
Smoky Flavor: If you enjoy a smoky twist, mix in a touch of chipotle sauce or more smoked paprika for an irresistible depth.
Herbaceous Notes: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley sprinkled before serving can uplift the chili's flavor and add a fresh pop.
Creamy Goodness: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy, luxurious finish that melts into the chili.

Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef is best for this chili?
Absolutely! Using lean ground beef is recommended for a lighter option without sacrificing that delicious flavor. If you want a healthier twist, ground turkey can also work beautifully.

How should I store leftover chili, and how long does it last?
After your meal, transfer any leftover chili to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Just make sure it's cooled down before sealing it up to maintain its freshness!

Can I freeze Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili with Beans?
Very! To freeze, divide the chili into portions and place them in resealable bags or airtight containers. Lay the bags flat for easier storage, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if my chili turns out too watery?
No worries! If you find your chili is a bit more soupy than you'd like, you can simmer it uncovered on the stove for about 20 minutes to reduce the liquid. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking.

Are there any dietary considerations?
If you or someone in your household has dietary restrictions, this chili can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free beef broth and ensuring any canned ingredients are also gluten-free. Additionally, if you're concerned about beans, you can swap them out for more vegetables such as sweet potatoes or zucchini.

How can I customize the spice level in my chili?
The more the merrier! Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference-start with a smaller amount and gradually add more until it reaches your desired heat level. You can also mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!