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Delicious bowl of timeless slow cooker chili garnished with fresh herbs

Classic Slow Cooker Chili

A hearty and comforting chili with tender beef and a blend of spices, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cooking Base
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Adds a brilliant sheen and richness
  • 2 medium onions, chopped finely (about 2 cups) creates a sweet undertone
  • 1 piece red bell pepper, cut into 1/2 inch cubes Provides a splash of color and sweetness
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced or pressed Delivers a robust, earthy flavor
Spices
  • 1/4 cup chili powder Infuses deep warmth and pleasant spice
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin Adds a warm, nutty flavor
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander Provides a bright, citrus undertone
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes For a bit of heat
  • 1 teaspoon oregano Brings a lovely earthiness
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Enhances the spicy kick
Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds 85% lean ground beef Creates a hearty base
  • 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounces) Lending texture and bulk
  • 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounces) Adds creaminess and nutritional goodness
  • 28 ounces diced tomatoes with juice Forms the body of your chili
  • 28 ounces tomato puree Offering depth and richness

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add chopped onions, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sprinkle in chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, red pepper flakes, oregano, and cayenne. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and beginning to brown, about 10 minutes.
  3. Increase heat to medium-high and add half of the ground beef, cooking until no longer pink, about 3-4 minutes. Add remaining beef and continue cooking until fully browned, another 3-4 minutes.
  4. Transfer the sautéed mixture into the slow cooker, scraping the bottom to include browned bits.
  5. Add drained kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes with juice, and tomato puree. Stir to combine.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Notes

For richer flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or liquid smoke. To thicken, cook uncovered on high for the last 30 minutes. Add a tablespoon of brown sugar for sweetness. Experiment with different beans or substitute beef for ground turkey.