Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Chili Recipe
Why wouldn’t you fall in love with this Slow Cooker Chili Recipe? It’s the perfect blend of flavors that warms you from the inside out.
I adore how I can toss everything in the slow cooker and forget about it for hours. When I come home, the aroma fills my kitchen, making my mouth water.
Plus, it’s so versatile! You can adjust the spice to your liking or add extras like bell peppers.
This chili isn’t just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl. Every bite reminds me of cozy nights and good times with friends and family.
You’ll want seconds!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Chili
When it comes to making Slow Cooker Chili, gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that hearty, flavorful dish that everyone loves. This recipe is simple and straightforward, and once you have everything in front of you, you’re just a few steps away from a comforting bowl of chili.
So, let’s go through what you’ll need to whip up this delicious meal.
Here’s a handy list of ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
- 10 ounces condensed tomato soup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 30 ounces red kidney beans, drained
- 14 1/2 ounces diced tomatoes
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients a bit more. It’s worth mentioning that you can totally customize this chili to fit your taste buds or what you have in your pantry.
For instance, if you prefer beef over turkey, go ahead and swap it out. And if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some bell peppers or even corn for extra texture and flavor.
Spice lovers might want to kick things up a notch with jalapeños or extra chili powder. Don’t be shy to make it your own; after all, cooking should be as fun as eating!
Just remember, the magic of slow cooking is that all these flavors meld together beautifully as they simmer away, creating a dish that’s even better the next day.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chili
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s jump into the fun part: making that mouthwatering Slow Cooker Chili. It’s easier than you might think, and the best part? You’ll get to sit back and relax while it cooks itself.
First things first, grab 1 1/2 lbs of ground turkey. If you’re like me and sometimes get a little too excited while cooking, try not to make a mess of your kitchen counter when you’re browning the meat. Heat up a skillet over medium heat, toss in the turkey, and cook it until it’s nice and brown. Remember to drain off any excess fat because nobody wants greasy chili.
Once that turkey is brown and ready to go, it’s time to bring everything together. In your slow cooker, combine the turkey with 10 ounces of condensed tomato soup, and pour in 1/2 cup of water. Next, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of chili powder and 2 teaspoons of ground cumin for that signature chili flavor. Don’t forget the 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 large chopped onion; they’ll add depth and aroma that will have everyone wandering into your kitchen asking, “What’s cooking?”
Now, it’s time to add the 30 ounces of drained red kidney beans and the 14 1/2 ounces of diced tomatoes. Stir everything together, and give yourself a little pat on the back for being a culinary genius.
Once all the ingredients are mixed up and looking delicious, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on Low for 8 to 10 hours. Yes, I said 8 to 10 hours. It feels like an eternity, but trust me, the wait is worth it. You could binge-watch your favorite show, catch up on that book you’ve been meaning to read, or even take a nap—just don’t forget to set a timer.
After the hours have passed, your kitchen will be filled with a heavenly aroma, and your chili will be ready to be ladled into bowls. Serve it with some cornbread or top it with cheese and sour cream if you’re feeling fancy.
Slow Cooker Chili Substitutions & Variations
While traditional slow cooker chili is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own.
You can swap ground turkey for beef or even use plant-based meat for a vegetarian option. If you’re not a fan of kidney beans, black beans or chickpeas work well too.
Try adding bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and texture. For a spicy kick, toss in jalapeños or chipotle peppers.
Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or oregano to create a unique taste. The possibilities are endless, so have fun customizing your chili!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chili
If you’re looking for the perfect accompaniments to slow cooker chili, you’ve got plenty of delicious options to enhance your meal.
I love serving mine with warm cornbread or crispy tortilla chips for that extra crunch. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese can elevate the flavors beautifully.
For a revitalizing contrast, a simple side salad with avocado and lime dressing works wonders. Don’t forget about pickled jalapeños for those who enjoy some heat!
Each of these options complements the hearty chili and makes the dining experience even more satisfying. Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing slow cooker chili, it’s essential to take into account a few additional tips to enhance the flavor and texture.
First, consider browning your meat with spices beforehand to deepen the taste. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of dark chocolate can elevate the richness.
Don’t hesitate to toss in some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra depth. If you have time, let the chili cool and refrigerate overnight; flavors meld beautifully!
Finally, adjust the seasoning before serving, as slow cooking can sometimes dull spices. Enjoy experimenting to find your perfect blend!