Slow Cooker Beef Chili Recipe (Set & Forget)

Byemma chef
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If you’re craving deep, rich flavor with almost no effort, this Slow Cooker Beef Chili Recipe (Set & Forget) is exactly what you need. Made with simple pantry ingredients and cooked low and slow, this hearty chili delivers bold, comforting flavor while your crockpot does all the work.

Perfect for busy weekdays, game days, or meal prep, this chili is thick, filling, and even better the next day.

Why Slow Cooker Chili Is a Game-Changer

Hands-Off Cooking

Once everything is added, the slow cooker handles the rest.

Deeper Flavor

Long simmering allows spices, beef, and tomatoes to fully develop.

Perfect for Busy Days

Set it in the morning, enjoy dinner with zero stress.

What Makes This Chili Classic & Hearty

This Slow Cooker Beef Chili Recipe (Set & Forget) stays true to traditional chili flavors:

  • Ground beef for richness
  • Beans for heartiness
  • Tomato base for balance
  • Warm spices for depth

Exact Ingredients List (Serves 6–8)

Main Ingredients

  • 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Beans & Tomatoes

  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth

Seasonings

  • 2½ tbsp chili powder
  • 1½ tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: ¼–½ tsp cayenne pepper

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Chili

1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until fully browned. Drain excess grease.

This step adds depth and prevents greasy chili.

Building the Chili in the Slow Cooker

2. Add Everything to the Crockpot

Transfer beef to the slow cooker. Add onion, garlic, beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and all spices. Stir well.

Slow Cooking Instructions

  • Low: 6–8 hours
  • High: 3–4 hours

Stir occasionally if possible. The chili will thicken and deepen in flavor as it cooks.

This slow simmer is what makes Slow Cooker Beef Chili Recipe (Set & Forget) so rich and satisfying.

Adjusting Thickness & Flavor

  • Too thick? Add broth
  • Too thin? Cook uncovered for last 30 minutes
  • Too spicy? Add sour cream or a pinch of sugar
  • Too mild? Add cayenne or hot sauce

Best Chili Toppings

  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Green onions
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Crushed tortilla chips

What to Serve with Beef Chili

  • Cornbread or biscuits
  • Rice or baked potatoes
  • Garlic bread
  • Simple green salad

Storage & Freezing Tips

Refrigerator

Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze chili for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the beef browning step
  • Overloading with liquid
  • Not tasting before serving
  • Using extra-lean beef (less flavor)

FAQs About Slow Cooker Beef Chili Recipe (Set & Forget)

Can I add vegetables?
Yes—bell peppers, corn, or zucchini work well.

Can I use ground turkey?
Yes, but add extra seasoning for richness.

Is chili better the next day?
Absolutely. Flavors deepen overnight.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes—just use a large slow cooker.

Do I need to stir while cooking?
Not required, but helpful if available.

How do I make it smoky?
Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Chili Recipe (Set & Forget) is the ultimate comfort food for busy days. With rich beef flavor, hearty beans, and bold spices slow-simmered to perfection, this chili proves that great meals don’t need constant attention. Set it, forget it, and come home to a warm, satisfying bowl of classic chili every time.

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