Spicy Crockpot Chili: 4 Beans That Make Dinner Unforgettable – Try Today
Introduction
Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? Look no further than this mouthwatering Spicy Crockpot Chili! This hearty, four-bean delight is the perfect comfort food for those chilly evenings or when you’re craving a flavor-packed meal. As a renowned international chef, I’m thrilled to share this recipe that combines the convenience of slow cooking with the rich, complex flavors of a traditional chili.
Why is it Perfect for You?
This Crockpot chili is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a depth that’s hard to achieve with quick-cook methods. Plus, it’s an excellent option for busy families or those who love to meal prep. Set it in the morning, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat dinner!
Ingredients List
◾ 1 lb ground beef
◾ 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
◾ 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
◾ 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
◾ 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
◾ 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
◾ 1 large onion, diced
◾ 2 bell peppers, chopped
◾ 3 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 2 tbsp chili powder
◾ 1 tbsp cumin
◾ 1 tsp paprika
◾ 1 tsp oregano
◾ 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ 2 cups beef broth
◾ Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low, 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to your crockpot.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the beef is browning, dice your onion and chop the bell peppers. Mince the garlic cloves. Add these aromatic vegetables to the crockpot with the browned beef.
Step 3: Add Beans and Tomatoes
Open and drain all four varieties of beans. Rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium. Add the beans to the crockpot along with the two cans of diced tomatoes. The combination of these four beans provides a delightful texture and a boost of protein and fiber.
Step 4: Season the Chili
Now it’s time to add those crucial spices that give our Spicy Crockpot Chili its signature flavor. Measure out the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Add these to the crockpot, along with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper.
Step 5: Add Broth and Cook
Pour in the beef broth, which will help create the perfect chili consistency. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is up, give your chili a final stir. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot in bowls, topped with your choice of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Information
This Crockpot chili is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s packed with protein from the beef and beans, fiber from the vegetables and beans, and a host of vitamins and minerals.
Calories per Person
Each serving of this Spicy Crockpot Chili contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the toppings used.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this recipe even healthier, consider using lean ground turkey instead of beef. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding diced zucchini or carrots. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add an extra can of beans or some textured vegetable protein.
Serving Suggestions
This chili pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread or over a bed of brown rice. For a lighter option, serve it with a crisp green salad. Don’t forget to have plenty of toppings available for everyone to customize their bowl!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Spicy Crockpot Chili, steer clear of these common mistakes:
- Overcooking the beans – This can leave them mushy instead of tender.
- Skipping the browning step – Always brown the meat before adding it to the crockpot to build rich, layered flavor.
- Adding too much liquid – Extra broth or water can make your chili soupy instead of hearty.
- Neglecting the final taste test – Always sample before serving and adjust spices, salt, or heat to your liking.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This chili stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans or some textured vegetable protein for a delicious vegetarian version.
How can I make this chili less spicy?
To reduce the heat, simply decrease or omit the cayenne pepper. You can always add more heat with hot sauce when serving if some diners prefer it spicier.
Can I cook this chili on the stovetop instead of in a crockpot?
Absolutely! Simply simmer all ingredients in a large pot on the stovetop for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover chili?
Reheat chili in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. You may need to add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Conclusion
This Spicy Crockpot Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its perfect balance of spices, hearty beans, and tender beef, it’s an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe has got you covered. So grab your crockpot and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
