Spicy Chili Recipe Crockpot: The Ultimate Weeknight Warmer

Craving a bowl of fiery, flavorful chili that practically cooks itself? Look no further! This spicy chili recipe, designed specifically for your crockpot, is the answer to your weeknight dinner dreams. Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of simmering spices and tender beef, all ready to be ladled into a hearty, satisfying bowl. This chili is packed with flavor, customizable to your preferred level of heat, and incredibly easy to make. Get ready to ditch the takeout menu and embrace the comforting warmth of homemade chili!

Why This Recipe Works

This crockpot chili recipe isn’t just easy, it’s incredibly delicious. Here’s why it works so well:

• Slow Cooking Magic: The low and slow cooking process in the crockpot allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The beef becomes incredibly tender, and the spices infuse every bite with a rich, complex flavor.
• Customizable Spice Level: We provide a base level of spice, but you have complete control! Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even some chopped jalapeños to kick up the heat to your liking.
• Hands-Off Convenience: With minimal prep time, you can simply dump the ingredients into the crockpot, set it, and forget it. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or weekends.
• Budget-Friendly: Chili is a great way to stretch your grocery budget. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling and affordable meal.
• Freezer-Friendly: This chili freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or batch cooking. You’ll always have a delicious and comforting meal on hand.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 lean)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices, tortilla chips

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease. This step helps to develop a richer flavor in the chili.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. The softened onions and garlic add depth of flavor to the chili.
3. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the browned beef, onion, and garlic mixture to a 6-quart or larger crockpot.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, and beef broth to the crockpot.
5. Stir Well: Stir all the ingredients together to ensure everything is well combined.
6. Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low allows the flavors to fully develop.
7. Check for Doneness: After the cooking time is complete, check the chili for doneness. The beef should be very tender, and the flavors should be well melded.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to your liking.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado slices. Serve with tortilla chips or cornbread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your crockpot chili is a success:

• Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the ground beef is a crucial step for developing flavor. It adds a depth of richness that you won’t get if you skip it.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ingredients, such as good-quality ground beef and canned tomatoes, will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your chili.
• Adjust the Spice Level: This recipe is designed to be moderately spicy. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the cayenne pepper. If you want it spicier, add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or some chopped jalapeños.
• Don’t Overcook: While the crockpot is forgiving, overcooking can result in mushy beans. Check the chili for doneness after the recommended cooking time and adjust accordingly.
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring the chili occasionally during cooking will help to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Add a Touch of Sweetness: A teaspoon of brown sugar or honey can help to balance the flavors and add a subtle sweetness to the chili.
• Thicken if Necessary: If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by stirring in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons of cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerating: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Label and date the containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the chili to the refrigerator overnight or thaw it in the microwave.

FAQ

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any type of bean you like. Great Northern beans, cannellini beans, or even chili beans would all work well in this recipe.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even shredded beef or pork. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables to the chili, such as corn, zucchini, or mushrooms.

Can I make this chili on the stovetop?

Yes, you can. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic as instructed. Then, add the remaining ingredients to a large pot and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water. However, beef broth will provide the richest flavor.

Conclusion

This spicy crockpot chili recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. With its customizable spice level and freezer-friendly nature, this chili is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your crockpot, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying bowl of homemade chili!