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Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Classic Slow Cooker Chili: A Warm, Hearty Family Favorite

This Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners, offering rich flavors and hearty ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 hours
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Can substitute with olive oil.
  • 2 medium Onions Yellow or white onions work well.
  • 1 unit Red Bell Pepper Can replace with green bell pepper.
  • 6 cloves Garlic Fresh minced or jarred garlic.
Seasoning
  • 0.25 cup Chili Powder Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Ground Cumin No direct substitute.
  • 2 teaspoons Ground Coriander Omit if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Substitute with Italian seasoning if needed.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Omit for milder chili.
Protein
  • 2 lbs Lean Ground Beef 85% lean, can substitute with turkey or plant-based.
Beans
  • 1 can Red Kidney Beans 15 oz.
  • 1 can Pinto Beans 15 oz.
Tomatoes
  • 28 oz Diced Tomatoes Can replace with fresh if chopped finely.
  • 28 oz Tomato Puree Crushed tomatoes can be used.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large Pan

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir in spices and cook for about 10 minutes, until softened.
  2. Increase heat to medium-high and brown half of the ground beef. Transfer to a bowl and repeat with remaining beef.
  3. Transfer the sautéed mixture into the slow cooker, scraping all flavorful bits from the pan.
  4. Add kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato puree to the slow cooker. Season with salt to taste and mix well.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours until flavors meld.
  6. Ladle into bowls and serve warm with toppings like shredded cheese and diced avocado.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Perfect for leftovers; store in an airtight container and reheat with fresh toppings.

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