Best Ever Chili: A Classic Slow Cooker Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the hearty, warming flavors of a good chili. This Best Ever Chili Slow Cooker Recipe is a classic take on the beloved dish, combining tender ground beef, kidney beans, and fresh tomatoes with a bold chili powder kick. With just a few minutes of prep and a long, slow cook, this recipe delivers a rich, flavorful chili that’s perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd. Let’s dive into what makes this chili possibly the easiest and tastiest you’ll ever make.
Best Ever Chili: A Classic Slow Cooker Recipe
10
servings10
minutes10
hours143
kcalIngredients
1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 cup chopped onion
2 cans (about 15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and liquid reserved
1 ½ pounds plum tomatoes, diced
1 can (about 15 ounces) tomato paste
3 to 6 tablespoons chili powder
Sour cream (optional, for topping)
Chopped green onion (optional, for topping)
Directions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and chopped onion for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring to break up the meat into small pieces. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the beef mixture to your Crock-Pot Slow Cooker.
- Add the drained kidney beans, diced plum tomatoes, tomato paste, 1 cup of the reserved bean liquid, and 3 to 6 tablespoons of chili powder to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 10 to 12 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Serve the chili hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onion, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Best Ever Chili is perfect as a standalone meal, served in bowls with your favorite toppings. The optional sour cream and green onions add a creamy, fresh contrast to the rich, spicy chili. Pair it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it over baked potatoes or use it as a topping for nachos. This versatile chili is great for casual weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep for the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker chili lives up to its name as the “Best Ever” with its effortless preparation and bold, satisfying flavors. The long cooking time allows the ingredients to come together into a rich, hearty dish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. The adjustable chili powder lets you tailor the heat to your preference, making it suitable for all palates. With just 5 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day.
Whether you’re a chili enthusiast or looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe, this Best Ever Chili is a winner. Its simplicity, robust flavor, and versatility make it a go-to for any occasion. Try this recipe for your next meal and enjoy a bowl of comfort that’s as delicious as it is effortless!
