🍲🔥 Crockpot Chili (Classic Beef & Bean Version)
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
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2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
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2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richness)
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1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained & rinsed
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1 can (15 oz) pinto or black beans, drained & rinsed
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1 tbsp chili powder
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp oregano
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½ tsp salt (to taste)
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¼–½ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
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½ cup beef broth or water (optional for thinner chili)
🔪 Instructions
1️⃣ Brown the Meat
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Add diced onions and garlic, cook another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
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Transfer everything to your crockpot.
2️⃣ Build the Chili
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Add all remaining ingredients: bell pepper, tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, spices, and broth (if using).
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Stir well to combine.
3️⃣ Slow Cook
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Cover and cook on:
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LOW for 6–8 hours, or
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HIGH for 3–4 hours
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Stir occasionally if possible. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
🍽️ Topping Ideas
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Sour cream or Greek yogurt
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Sliced green onions or chives
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Jalapeño slices
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Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread on the side
🔄 Variations
🌶️ Want it Spicier?
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Add diced jalapeños, chipotle in adobo, or hot sauce.
🍠 Want it Chunkier?
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Stir in cubed sweet potato or butternut squash.
🫘 No Beans?
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Skip the beans for Texas-style chili and double the meat.
🥩 Want it Chunky & Rich?
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Use cubed chuck roast instead of ground beef — just sear first.
🧊 Storage
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Fridge: 4–5 days in an airtight container
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Freezer: Up to 3 months — thaw and reheat on stovetop or in microwave
Would you like a vegetarian version, a white chicken chili, or a game-day chili bar setup?
