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Ultimate Beef Chili

A hearty and flavorful slow cooker chili packed with ground beef, savory spices, and a medley of beans, perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs ground beef Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder Feel free to increase for a spicier kick.
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth
Optional Toppings
  • shredded cheese For garnish
  • sour cream For garnish
  • diced green onions For garnish
  • cilantro For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is no longer pink. Drain excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.
  2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker, along with the drained beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
Cooking
  1. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
Final Steps
  1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the chili and taste to adjust seasonings if needed.
  2. Ladle the chili into bowls and allow everyone to top with their choice of optional toppings.

Notes

Chili often tastes even better the next day. Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers. Consider creating a chili bar for customization during gatherings.