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Cozy Slow Cooker Chili Recipe for 8 Easy Hearty Comfort Meal

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A rich and hearty slow cooker chili that feeds 8, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any cozy gathering. Slow-cooked to meld flavors and create a comforting meal with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream or Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving a little for flavor.
  2. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Transfer the browned beef, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker. Add kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
  4. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  6. About 30 minutes before serving, taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder. If too thick, stir in a bit more broth or water.
  7. Serve warm with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, and cilantro.

Notes

Do not lift the slow cooker lid during cooking to keep heat and moisture locked in. Browning the meat and sautéing onions and garlic before slow cooking adds depth of flavor. Adjust spice levels gradually. This recipe can be adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets by substituting meat with beans or lentils and using vegetable broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chili, hearty chili, comfort food, easy chili recipe, family dinner, potluck recipe, ground beef chili, slow cooked chili

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/cozy-slow-cooker-chili-recipe-for-8-easy-hearty-comfort-meal/