Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs Lean ground beef
- 1 Large yellow onion, diced
- 1 Green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 Cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) Kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) Crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) Tomato paste
- 1 cup Beef broth
- 2 tbsp Chili powder
- 1 tbsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, green onions
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Beef – Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is completely browned and no longer pink. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Once finished, drain the excess grease thoroughly to ensure your chili isn’t oily. Transfer the browned beef into your slow cooker.
- Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics – In the same skillet, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 60 seconds until fragrant. This step “blooms” the flavor of the vegetables before they hit the crockpot.
- Step 3: Combine and Season – Add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker with the beef. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Stir everything together until the tomato paste is fully incorporated and the ingredients are well mixed.
- Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection – Cover the crockpot with the lid. Set the temperature to LOW and cook for 7 to 8 hours. If you are in a hurry, you can cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, but the low-and-slow method produces the most tender beef and deepest flavor. Taste the chili before serving and adjust salt or spices if needed.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve – Ladle the hot chili into deep bowls. Top each serving with a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions. Serve alongside warm cornbread or salty crackers for the ultimate snow day feast.
- Cook Time: 8 hours 20 minutes