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image of ground beef kidney beans black beans pinto beans diced tomatoes crushed tomatoes tomato sauce onion garlic bell pepper chili powder cumin smoked paprika beef broth jalapeno poblano pepper corn masa harina cocoa powder oregano arranged in clear glass bowls on white marble counter with rustic wooden kitchen tools under soft daylight
adam saha

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chili with Beans

This comforting slow cooker chili is a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for busy days, featuring tender ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices that simmer to perfection for an emotional comfort in every bowl.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Ground Beef 85/15 or 90/10 lean ratio
  • 1 Medium Yellow Onion diced
  • 3 cloves Fresh Garlic minced
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper diced
  • 1 Jalapeno optional, seeded and diced for heat
  • 2 cans (14.5 oz each) Canned Diced Tomatoes undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) Canned Crushed Tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) Canned Tomato Sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) Kidney Beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) Black Beans rinsed and drained
  • 2 tbsp Chili Powder
  • 1 tbsp Cumin ground
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper ground
  • 1 cup Low-Sodium Beef Broth
  • 1 tbsp Masa Harina optional for thickening
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • skillet,

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, break up the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Push the beef to one side of the skillet or return to the skillet with 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Sauté until the onion is translucent and peppers softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and black beans. Stir to combine.
  5. Pour in the beef broth. Stir well and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
  7. If thickening, mix 1 tbsp masa harina with 2 tbsp cold water to make a slurry. Stir into the chili in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and cornbread.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20g

Notes

This chili tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. For variations, add cocoa powder for depth, or include corn for a southwest twist. Top with cheese, sour cream, avocado, and lime wedges.
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