Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chili: 5 Hearty Comfort Meals

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Slow Cooker Ground Beef is the epitome of comfort food, especially when it transforms into a hearty chili. This Classic Slow Cooker Chili recipe combines lean ground beef, beans, diced tomatoes, and a flavorful blend of chili spices for a meal that warms both the heart and the belly. The beauty of using a slow cooker lies in its ability to meld flavors and create tender meat with minimal effort. Just set it and forget it while the magic happens!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ground Beef

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dish:

It’s a family favorite that pleases even picky eaters.
Perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Rich flavors develop as the ingredients simmer together in the slow cooker.
Quick prep time of just 20 minutes means you can get dinner started in no time.
It’s a healthy option packed with protein from the lean ground beef and fiber from the beans.
Adaptable to various dietary needs; simply modify ingredients as needed.
Great for entertaining or game day, serving a crowd without stress.
Best slow cooker ground beef meals should offer comfort and satisfaction, and this one delivers.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Ground Beef

Gather these items:

2 lb lean Ground Beef (90/10 or 93/7)
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
30 oz kidney beans (two 15oz cans), drained and rinsed
30 oz diced tomatoes with juice
10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice
30 oz tomato sauce
2 tsp cumin powder
2 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper

How to Make Slow Cooker Ground Beef Step-by-Step

Step 1: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the ground beef for 4-5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it releases its fat and is no longer pink.
Step 2: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender. Add the minced garlic along with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly and cook for an additional 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
Step 3: Transfer the cooked beef mixture from the skillet into a 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 4: Into the slow cooker, add the drained and rinsed black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juice, diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice, and tomato sauce. Stir everything together to combine well.
Step 5: Cook the chili on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
Step 6: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the chili warm for a hearty meal.

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chili: 5 Hearty Comfort Meals - Slow Cooker Ground Beef - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Ground Beef

Keep these in mind:

Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition.
For more heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Cooking on low for longer tends to deepen the flavors more than cooking on high.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure maximum flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Ground Beef

This chili is versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas:

Serve it with cornbread for a classic pairing.
Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for a creamy finish.
Use it as a filling for slow cooker ground beef tacos—simple and delicious!

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Ground Beef

To store leftovers, let the chili cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, stirring occasionally. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Ground Beef

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Ground Beef?

The secret lies in browning the meat first to enhance flavor and adding spices at the right time to maximize their impact in the dish. Slow cooking allows for a tender result, making it ideal for ground beef in slow cooker recipes.

Can I make Slow Cooker Ground Beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chili a day in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge overnight. Just reheat before serving, making it a convenient option for busy nights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Ground Beef?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you’re using the right amount of liquid, don’t overcrowd the slow cooker, and always set the right cooking time. Following these steps can lead to perfectly cooked crockpot ground beef every time.

Variations of Slow Cooker Ground Beef You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Make a healthy slow cooker ground beef stew by adding potatoes and carrots.
Try different beans or use lentils for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Chili: 5 Hearty Comfort Meals - Slow Cooker Ground Beef - additional detail

With this Slow Cooker Ground Beef recipe, you’re all set for a cozy meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that warm your soul. Enjoy your cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Italian Meatball Soup or Slow Cooked Summer Beef for a delightful twist on beef dishes!