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Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

An easy slow cooker chili recipe with Ground Beef, beans, tomato sauce, and the best homemade chili seasoning. It putters away in the slow cooker for the juiciest beef and rich flavor.

Thank you to Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner. on behalf of the Beef Checkoff for sponsoring this Slow Cooker Chili recipe. I received compensation, but all opinions are my own.

Slow Cooker chili served in a bowl garnished with cheese, sour cream and avocado

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The Best Way to Cook Chili:

Slow Cooking chili is a classic way to cook chili. It’s the easiest chili because you can set it and forget it and this is how the award-winning chilis are achieved. The low and slow cooking process melds the flavors of the chili seasoning into every bite and the beef becomes so tender, juicy, and irresistible. You can slow cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.

Chili in a slow cooker with spoon

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chili:

  • Ground Beef – no other protein does it quite like beef and Ground Beef tastes amazing. We use lean (90/10 or 93/7) to eliminate the need to spoon out excess fat. If yours has a higher fat content, you can spoon out the excess fat when it renders in the skillet.
  • Onion – we love a generous amount of onion because it adds amazing sweet notes to the chili and disappears into the chili as it slow cooks.
  • Beans – you can change up the beans based on what you have on hand, but the classic beans for chili are kidney beans (we love dark red), and black beans. Be sure to rinse and drain the beans in a colander for the best chili consistency and color.
  • Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce – We love the combination of canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) as well as tomato sauce to give the chili a saucy consistency with great texture. For added flavor, we add a can of diced tomatoes and green chilis.
  • Chili Seasoning – we make a simple homemade blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Ingredients for chili with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, onion and seasonings

Do you Prefer a Spicy Chili?

To keep it kid-friendly, this classic chili is mild and not spicy. If you prefer a spicy chili, you can either add hot sauce to your bowl when serving or if you want the entire batch to be spicier, add an extra tablespoon of Chili Powder and 1/4 to 1/2 tsp of Cayenne Pepper to give it a spicy kick.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili:

Making chili in the slow cooker doesn’t get any easier. It’s as simple as browning the beef and onions then adding all of the canned ingredients to the slow cooker and turning it on. If you have a multicooker with a slow cooker function, you can saute and slow cook all in the same pot.

  1. SAUTE the beef and onions in a skillet then add garlic and seasonings to the pan.
  2. TRANSFER the beef mixture to a 6 Qt Slow Cooker.
  3. ADD REMAINING INGREDIENTS – rinsed and drained beans, diced tomatoes with their juice and tomato sauce.
  4. SLOW COOK – cover and set slow cooker on low 6-8 hours or on high 3-4 hours then season more to taste if needed.

Making beef chili step by step tutorial

Our Favorite Chili Toppings:

We love to serve this family-style where everyone can build their own chili bowls with the toppings they love. Toppings can vary based on what we have in the fridge, but these are our favorite toppings for chili –

  • Cheese – mild cheddar is the classic choice, but Mexican shredded cheese works equally well
  • Onion – chopped green or red onion adds a fresh pop of color and flavor
  • Avocado – because we can’t help putting avocado on everything, especially chili.
  • Cilantro – for garnish and adding fresh flavor
  • Sour cream – balances the dish (especially great when chili is served over a baked potato)
  • Sliced jalapenos – you can use any hot pepper for a spicy kick

Toppings for chili with avocados, chives, onion, jalapeños, cheese, sour cream and cilantro

How to Serve Chili:

Chili keeps really well in the refrigerator so we love to get creative with leftovers. There are so many ways to serve classic chili and really it can be served almost any time of day. Some of our favorites include:

  1. Chili Cheese Dip – Sprinkle chili with cheddar cheese and serve as an appetizer with tortilla chips.
  2. Chili Dogs – Top a hot dog with chili and shredded cheese to transform it into a chili cheese dog.
  3. Chili Stuffed Baked Potatoes – topping a baked potato with hot chili is a delicious gluten-free option and fun way to serve a crowd.
  4. In a Bowl – loaded with all of the toppings and tortilla chips or pita chips on the side (this is our family favorite)!

Crockpot chili served in a bowl garnished with toppings and tortilla chips

Why We Love This Family Friendly Dinner:

With so many families staying home together now, juggling homeschool, and cooking more than ever, it’s a great time to get kids in the kitchen and teach them through cooking. This slow cooker beef chili is a great way to teach your children cooking skills. Children can learn:

  • Food safety tips like washing hands after handling raw meat
  • The importance of using separate plates and utensils for raw and ready to eat foods to prevent cross-contamination
  • How to measure spices and weigh ingredients

If you let kids help with preparing the meal, they are more likely to enjoy eating it. It also makes for a memorable photo-op moment!

Making chili in a slow cooker with kids

More Beef Recipes You Will Love:

Get the print-friendly recipe below for this Classic Slow Cooker Beef Chili.

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Classic Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

4.99 from 1592 votes
Author: Natasha of NatashasKitchen.com
An easy Slow Cooker chili recipe with Ground Beef, beans, tomato sauce, and the best homemade chili seasoning. It putters away in the slow cooker for the juiciest beef and rich flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Ingredients 

Servings: 10 people
  • 2 lb lean Ground Beef, (90/10 or 93/7)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp cumin powder
  • 2 Tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 30 oz kidney beans, two 15oz cans, drained and rinsed
  • 30 oz diced tomatoes, with their juice
  • 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis, with their juice
  • 30 oz tomato sauce

Instructions

  • Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté beef until it releases fat (4-5 minutes), breaking it up with a spatula.
  • Add onion to the skillet and sauté until tender (4-5 minutes). Add minced garlic and seasonings: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt and pepper. Cook another 30 seconds stirring constantly. Transfer to a 6 Qt slow cooker.
  • Add remaining ingredients into the slow cooker: rinsed and drained beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, diced tomatoes and green chilis with juice and tomato sauce. Stir to combine and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. Season to taste if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition Per Serving

340kcal Calories41g Carbs33g Protein6g Fat2g Saturated Fat56mg Cholesterol889mg Sodium1356mg Potassium13g Fiber7g Sugar862IU Vitamin A19mg Vitamin C103mg Calcium8mg Iron
Nutrition Facts
Classic Slow Cooker Chili Recipe
Amount per Serving
Calories
340
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
6
g
9
%
Saturated Fat
 
2
g
13
%
Cholesterol
 
56
mg
19
%
Sodium
 
889
mg
39
%
Potassium
 
1356
mg
39
%
Carbohydrates
 
41
g
14
%
Fiber
 
13
g
54
%
Sugar
 
7
g
8
%
Protein
 
33
g
66
%
Vitamin A
 
862
IU
17
%
Vitamin C
 
19
mg
23
%
Calcium
 
103
mg
10
%
Iron
 
8
mg
44
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex Mex
Keyword: slow cooker chili
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $16-$20
Calories: 340

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Natasha Kravchuk

Welcome to my kitchen! I am Natasha, the blogger behind Natasha's Kitchen (since 2009). My husband and I run this blog together and share only our best, family approved and tested recipes with YOU. Thanks for stopping by! We are so happy you're here.

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Read comments/reviewsAdd comment/review

  • Kevin penley
    December 9, 2022

    Very good chili, this is for 10 servings. I guess I kind of guesstimated, what is one serving, 1or2 cups? Ty

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      December 9, 2022

      Hi Kevin! I don’t have the exact amount of each serving, we get about 10 bowls.

      Reply

  • Jamie Creel
    December 9, 2022

    I made this for family dinner last night and it was a big hit! The best chili I have ever made. I added a can of sweet corn to it and it was amazing. Will def keep this recipe!!!!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      December 9, 2022

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us, Jamie!

      Reply

  • Vee
    December 6, 2022

    Can I use it in the instant pot but cook it in the slow mode button instead? If so, how many hrs would I cook it for?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      December 6, 2022

      I have not tested this recipe in an instant pot. You may find this recipe helpful, instant pot chicken chili.

      Reply

    • Gretchen M
      December 7, 2022

      Stop 🛑 looking for a chili recipe! This is the one to use. My kids LOVE my mom’s chili, but I wanted my own that my kids would love just as much. Natasha has never steered me wrong with any of her recipes (and I’ve made oodles of them!). I made this and all my kids devoured it and asked for seconds.

      I made two slight modifications to use what I had on hand (used crushed tomatoes instead of diced & diced with green chili’s; used 2 cans of black beans and 1 can of kidney beans instead of the other way around). Next time I will do it exactly as the recipe is written and I have no doubt it’ll be just as good if not better!

      Delicious! Even I liked it and would happily eat it again and again (and I’ve never been a fan of chili).

      Reply

      • Natasha's Kitchen
        December 7, 2022

        What a great message and feedback, Gretchen. Thank you for sharing and yes, that sounds like a plan!

        Reply

  • Renee S.
    December 4, 2022

    Made this recipe today. Oh so good! I use a lot of your recipes. Never disappointed.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 4, 2022

      I’m so happy to know that you’re enjoying our recipes!

      Reply

  • Dee
    December 4, 2022

    Delicious Chili! I didn’t make any substitutions and it’s a family favorite. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      December 4, 2022

      You’re welcome, Dee! Thanks for sharing, we’re glad that this is one of your family’s favorite recipes.

      Reply

      • Louise
        February 2, 2023

        Dinner tonight consisted of your crock pot chili and corn bread. Yummy! Can leftover chili be frozen?
        Love your recipes!

        Reply

        • NatashasKitchen.com
          February 2, 2023

          Hi Louise! Sounds amazing!! I haven’t tried freezing it to advise. One of my readers reported good results freezing it.

          Reply

  • Alayna
    November 30, 2022

    SO easy to make and results looked exactly like the pictures. My family serves chili with cheddar cheese & fritos on top and a little bit of hot sauce to taste. It was absolutely delicious.
    I’ll definitely be making this often. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      November 30, 2022

      That is the best when the family loves what we make. That’s so great!

      Reply

  • Lizette
    November 29, 2022

    Wow! What an amazing recipe! The flavor is great, I made it today and it was amazing my husband loves it ! We been looking for a Chili recipe and this one is by far our favorite ! We will try to do nachos with the left over ! Thank you Natasha all you food is delicious.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 29, 2022

      You’re very welcome! So glad you loved it.

      Reply

  • Christopher Howard
    November 27, 2022

    This will be my first time trying to cook chili thanks for this. Do you recommend cooking on low if time permits?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 28, 2022

      Hi Christopher! This can be cooked on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. I hope you love the recipe!

      Reply

  • Phil
    November 25, 2022

    I’ve put this recipe in my bookmarks and I make it quite often. It’s easy to make and is absolutely delicious.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 25, 2022

      That’s great that you found another go-to recipe!

      Reply

  • Sue
    November 22, 2022

    I would love to try this recipe. I will be making it for 2 people. Can I make it successfully by using 1 lb of hamburg and a can each of the beans etc.?? Thank you.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 22, 2022

      Hi Sue! I have not tested that specifically but if you reduce the number of servings at the top of the recipe card to “five” it will convert the ingredients list for you to use 1 lb of ground beef. Hover your cursor over the number of servings in red and slide to the left to decrease.

      Reply

  • John
    November 20, 2022

    Amazing recipe!! I ended up adding four jalapeños, half a Serano, and a small container of chipotle peppers in adobo. Came out so good and had that kick!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 20, 2022

      Sounds great! Thank you for sharing your experience trying out this recipe!

      Reply

  • Natalie Hogue
    November 19, 2022

    Really wonderful! I’ve never used black beans or cumin in my chili but I could taste the delicious difference.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 20, 2022

      Glad you enjoyed this recipe!

      Reply

  • Eddy
    November 19, 2022

    I decided to make this last week and I’m making it again this week. Wonderful easy recipe. High recommended.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 19, 2022

      Thank you, Eddy! I’m glad you enjoyed it.

      Reply

  • Ray
    November 16, 2022

    Made this for first time. Very easy and it was a hit! Will be making again soon.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 16, 2022

      I’m glad you loved it, Ray! Thank you.

      Reply

  • Stephanie
    November 16, 2022

    Delicious! I didn’t have any tomatoes with chili’s on hand, so I added a can of chipotles in adobo sauce as well as an extra can of tomatoes. It came out perfect! lots of flavor, a little bit of heat.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 16, 2022

      Hi Stephnie, good to know that the substitution that you used worked well in this recipe! Thanks for sharing.

      Reply

  • Christa
    November 14, 2022

    I love chili, but honestly none of the crockpot recipes I’ve tried ever turn out quite right. Well this one was so easy, and it was a crowd pleaser at a family birthday party. It’s definitely going in the regular rotation!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 14, 2022

      I’m so glad that it turned out, Christa! Thank you for trying my recipe.

      Reply

  • Catherine
    November 14, 2022

    Does this freeze well? If so, How long can it be in the freezer.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 14, 2022

      Hi Catherine! I haven’t tried freezing it to advise. One of my readers reported good results freezing it.

      Reply

  • Eli Davis
    November 13, 2022

    How big is the serving?? I’ve made this recipe many times and I love this recipe.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 13, 2022

      Hi Eli, the whole recipe serves 10 people. You can divide this whole recipe into 10 to get the accurate per serving size.

      Reply

  • Linda Campbell
    November 13, 2022

    Can I skip adding the black beans? Not really a fan…Thanks! making tonite!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 13, 2022

      Hi Linda, I think that’s alright. I saw others share that they used cannellini beans instead.

      Reply

  • Joey
    November 10, 2022

    Honestly, this is a GREAT recipe. Cooking it tonight for the wife to enjoy!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      November 10, 2022

      Thank you, Joey. I hope your wife will love this recipe too!

      Reply

  • Ray
    November 5, 2022

    Do you drain the grease from teh ground beef before putting it in the crock pot?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 5, 2022

      No, I do not. But you can if you’d like to.

      Reply

    • Doug
      November 13, 2022

      made this tonight. Excactly as per the recipie. It was fantastic. So flavourful and so easy.

      Reply

      • Natasha's Kitchen
        November 13, 2022

        Hi Doug, good to know that you liked it!

        Reply

        • Anne DiBerardino
          February 7, 2023

          I’m planning to make this for tturkey super bowl. Can I substitute ground for beef?

          Thank you!

          Reply

          • NatashasKitchen.com
            February 7, 2023

            Yes, you can! You may also reference this recipe for my turkey chili HERE.

  • Michelle
    November 5, 2022

    Hi. I’ve made this a few times and love it. I usually add frozen corn and/or or frozen green beans. Dumb question…since using already cooked canned kidney and black beans, the only reason to cook so long is to marry the flavors. Is that correct?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 5, 2022

      Hi Michelle! Thank you, I’m glad you love my recipe. Yes, basically, and it’s just very simple to brown the beef and onions then add all of the canned ingredients to the slow cooker and turn it on.

      Reply

  • Terra
    November 5, 2022

    Just wondering what I can substitute for the cumin, if anything? I don’t have any on hand and the local store doesn’t either! Want to make this for tonight but don’t want to ruin the recipe, please help?!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 5, 2022

      Hi Terra! You should be able to just leave it out. Add some more of the other spices if needed for more flavor. I hope you love this recipe.

      Reply

  • Marsha
    November 1, 2022

    I made this chili yesterday, using everything except the tomatoes with peppers and black bean ( did not have either) and it was delicious. My husband said it was the best he had ever eaten. This will definitely become my go to recipe for chili.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 1, 2022

      That’s wonderful, Marsha! Thank you for sharing.

      Reply

  • Melissa McShane
    October 31, 2022

    Going to make this tonight! My kids don’t like tomatoes in their chilli. How much sauce do you recommend if just using tomato sauce? Thank you.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 31, 2022

      Hi Melissa! I have not tested this recipe with just tomato sauce to advise on the exact quantity. You’d have to experiment with it. You could also blend the diced tomatoes with their juice to get rid of the chunky pieces of tomatoes.

      Reply

  • Carole Galeazzi
    October 30, 2022

    I made this tonight and it’s very good. It’s a little “hot” so next time I will cut back on the cumin so the kiddos can enjoy too

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 31, 2022

      Sounds good, yes please adjust the level of hotness next time according to your personal preference!

      Reply

    • Anna
      December 1, 2022

      Hey! I’ve made chili many times, and from my experience it isn’t the cumin that gives it extra spiciness, but the chili powder and the juice from the “diced tomatoe and green chillies”. I only add a small amount of the chili powder and drain the juice from the green chillies can, that way even my youngest ones can tolerate the heat. My husband and I just add some extra cayenne to ours;) Thought I would share in case it could help someone:)

      Reply

  • Paige
    October 30, 2022

    Hi! I made this recipe and its delicious and will make it again!

    I was wondering what the serving size. Thank you!!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 30, 2022

      Hello Paige, this recipe serves 10 people. You can divide the whole recipe to 10 to get per serving exact size.

      Reply

  • Vee
    October 29, 2022

    Hey can I make this in a 4 quart crock pot? Recipe looks devine!

    Reply

    • Natasha
      October 30, 2022

      Hi Vee, I haven’t tested this in a 4 quart, but only in a 6 quart. I think it would overwhelm a 4 quart. If you wanted to scale it down, click on the servings in the recipe card and you can adjust the list of ingredients.

      Reply

      • Allison
        January 5, 2023

        Hello, What if I want the serving to be 15-16 because I am cooking for a larger group? My slow cooker is 6-quart, but I am afraid it will overwhelm it.

        Reply

        • NatashasKitchen.com
          January 5, 2023

          Hi Allison! A Larger slow cooker would work but not sure if a 6qt can handle that. If you have a larger pot, you could try the stove-top version beef chili and double the ingredients.

          Reply

  • Vicki
    October 28, 2022

    This is a very good recipe. For those who like more heat, I divided it in half for our company and added some spices. I also sprinkled a little corn meal in, not much.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 28, 2022

      Thank you for the feedback, Vicki! I’m glad you liked this recipe.

      Reply

  • Patty Hantzepetros
    October 28, 2022

    I love your recipes especially the roast veggies on the grill. I don’t have a slow cooker. Can I make the chilli recipe without it on stove top?

    Reply

  • Melissa
    October 27, 2022

    My work had a chili competition and I needed something quick and easy to make. This was definitely quick and easy! I looked at so many recipes and am glad I chose this one! I browned the beef with the spices and onion and garlic the night before and put in the fridge. In the morning I put it in my crockpot and added the rest and cooked on high in my office before the event. There were 10 others who entered and mine came in second place and it was all gone! Will definitely save this one as it was delicious!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 27, 2022

      That’s so great, Melissa! Thank you for your wonderful review!

      Reply

    • charlene kelly
      November 10, 2022

      I want to make this tomorrow but is it alittle soupy with the 70oz of tomatoes ?

      Reply

  • Debby
    October 27, 2022

    Made this chili yesterday…absolutely loved it. We all (4 of us) liked it very much. Easy, but still nicely homemade. Not too spicy, flavorful and great texture. Will definitely be a regular on our table!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 27, 2022

      That’s so great! It sounds like you have a new favorite, Debby!

      Reply

      • Tanya Ryckman
        November 12, 2022

        I’m literally chomping at the bit for 6am so I can go grocery shopping for a few ingredients that I need to make this! It sounds so delicious. I am going to add un chopped green peppers as well. I just love the flavor it brings and ties everything together. Thanks for the recipe!

        Reply

        • NatashasKitchen.com
          November 12, 2022

          You’re very welcome! I’m so glad you love it.

          Reply

  • Joyce
    October 26, 2022

    I’m wondering if you can use ground beef in your beef land broccoli ramen stir fry? We eat very little steak and I’m hoping I can substitute. Thank you.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 26, 2022

      Hello Joyce, I think it will work but you will have to experiment on that.

      Reply

  • Lee Howell
    October 26, 2022

    I used a mixture of ground sirloin and ground beef and Contadina Fire Roasted Tomatoes. It was pretty good! Reminded me a lot of a Wendy’s knock-off recipe. I think next time I will use a tri-blend of ground beef, ground sirloin, and italian sausage and see what that does!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 26, 2022

      Sounds delicious!

      Reply

  • Liz
    October 25, 2022

    This is the same chili recipe that my mom used to make when i was growing up.. so i am excited to make this. I also wanted to let you know that i LOVE every single recipe i have tried of yours and so does my family.. thanks so much Natasha 😊

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 25, 2022

      Aww, that’s the best! Thank you so much for sharing that with me. I’m all smiles

      Reply

  • Jordan
    October 25, 2022

    I’m making this tonight for dinner but I don’t have any tomato sauce on hand. I just have tomato paste. Can I use it as a substitute somehow?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 25, 2022

      Hi Jordan, the paste is more concentrated so that would cause it to taste a lot like tomatoes

      Reply

    • HaleyK
      October 27, 2022

      A 1:1 ratio of tomato paste and water makes for an easy tomato sauce substitute in a pinch! If I don’t have tomato sauce on hand, I ALWAYS do this. I whisk the paste in to form a sauce.

      Reply

    • Linda Neuman
      November 4, 2022

      dilute the paste with 1-1/2 c water and add some sugar. Will be about the same as tom. sauce!

      Reply

  • Gloria Gawa
    October 23, 2022

    I make my chili pretty much the same. I do use cannellini beans instead of the red kidney beans with the black beans. I also add 2 t cocoa powder to give it a richer flavor.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 24, 2022

      Good to know and thanks for sharing!

      Reply

  • Angela A
    October 21, 2022

    How can I make this the day before? Need to serve for large crowd the next day.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 21, 2022

      Hi Angela! This reheats well, so it can be made ahead.

      Reply

  • Autumn
    October 21, 2022

    This is the best chili I’ve ever made! I added some more seasonings and some of Brenn’s medium salsa and wow! Delicious!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 21, 2022

      That’s so great! It sounds like you have a new favorite, Autumn!

      Reply

  • Ryan Berg
    October 20, 2022

    I made this recipe at home; it was very quick and easy. I have always done the storebought chili mixes in the past; but this recipe was so much better. Usually, the kids and wife are saying it is too spicy. This recipe was perfect, mild and good flavor. For those of us that like spice (cayenne is your friend).

    Definitely a go-to; thank you!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      October 20, 2022

      Love it! Thanks for sharing your feedback with us, Ryan. Happy to hear that you love this recipe!

      Reply

  • Darla
    October 20, 2022

    Updated. As I forgot to add 5 stars rating.
    Made this yesterday. OMG! This is the BEST Chili I’ve ever had. My husband commented he could smell the aroma of the chili cooking and couldn’t wait to have it. He said it was the best Chili hands down too and that it was perfect..😊 Followed recipe… The seasonings were spot on. We can’t wait to have leftovers today. Natasha, I’ve made many of your recipes and have not found any that I didn’t like. You Rock! Thank you for sharing.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 20, 2022

      So glad to hear that, Darla! Thank you for the wonderful feedback and review.

      Reply

  • Joan
    October 19, 2022

    I made this last night and it was 😋 delicious. It had just the right amount of heat. I buy 8 lbs. of ground beef, cook it and then season it lightly. I then divide it up into individual packets and freeze it. I used two of those and then partially cooked the onions in the microwave. Dumped everything in the crock pot. So easy and no mess to clean up. Love all of your recipes.😋💕

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 19, 2022

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review, Joan!

      Reply

  • Mary Kostelnik
    October 18, 2022

    I followed the recipe exactly except only used two cans of beans and my husband deemed it perfect! Just the right amount of spices, love it!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 18, 2022

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us, Mary!

      Reply

  • Donna
    October 18, 2022

    Best chili recipe out there! I did venison instead of beef and was amazing as well.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 18, 2022

      I’m so happy you enjoyed that. Thank you for sharing that with us, Donna!

      Reply

  • Jen S.
    October 18, 2022

    Hello! What size crockpot did you use for this recipe? I believe I have a smaller crockpot, so should I use half the ground beef? I’m eager to try this recipe out tonight. Thanks!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 18, 2022

      Hi Jen, The one I used for this recipe, as depicted in the photos above, is a six qt. I hope that helps 🙂

      Reply

      • Jen S.
        October 18, 2022

        Thank you for your quick response. It does help. I have a 3-quart crockpot. I’ll just cut the recipe in half.

        Reply

        • Natashas Kitchen
          October 18, 2022

          You’re welcome, Jen!

          Reply

  • Pam Richardt
    October 15, 2022

    Love your recipes! I made chili today too. I have my own tomato juice and chunky tomato’s canned. We do add some elbow macaroni the next day–not proper, but we like some. We make it a day ahead and tomorrow it will have gotten together. Stay warm.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 15, 2022

      Thank you, Pam. So glad you love my recipes. That sounds delicious. 🙂

      Reply

    • Cindy Goodwin
      October 23, 2022

      Pam, the elbow macaroni makes it “chili-mac”. I grew up on it. MY FAVORITE and my family’s. You did good 👍

      Reply

  • Mia
    October 13, 2022

    This recipe was delicious. I’ve made it 3 times within the last 3 weeks and even my picky eater loves it. I’m excited to try more recipes from this site.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 13, 2022

      That’s great, Mia! That’s the best when kids enjoy the food. I hope you find many more recipes to enjoy.

      Reply

  • Kelly
    October 13, 2022

    This recipe looked really good from the ingredients but once I made it it actually left me flat it has very little flavor even though I added all the ingredients from the recipe and I added additional salt to see if that would help and it did not all I tasted pretty much was tomato sauce. Maybe it’s because I’m Sicilian and I like a lot of flavor to my food who knows. so probably going to go back to my salsa chili Crock-Pot recipe instead.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 13, 2022

      Hi Kelly! Thank you for trying my recipe. Did you by chance use tomato paste instead of tomato sauce? The paste is more concentrated so that would cause it to taste a lot like tomatoes. I’m sorry you did not enjoy this recipe. I have some other chili recipes if you are interested, such as slow cooker chicken chili that you may enjoy.

      Reply

  • Oderra
    October 10, 2022

    I’m making this tonight and can’t wait to try it!! Looks amazing! Have you tried adding corn to it? Was it good? I love corn, but wasn’t sure how it’ll taste!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 10, 2022

      Hi Oderra! I think corn would taste great with this.

      Reply

  • Jim Allgyre
    October 8, 2022

    I love your facial expressions that make your video’s so much fun to watch. I forgot what we were making. lol.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 8, 2022

      Thank you, Jim! 🙂

      Reply

  • Shawn
    October 7, 2022

    I am thankful, by accident that I found your cooking tutorials.
    Always like watching your new recipes. Excellent videos. And awesome recipes. Thanks..

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 7, 2022

      Welcome to our blog, Shawn! I’m so glad you found them by accident too! I hope you get to try and love more of my recipes soon!

      Reply

  • Nadai
    October 6, 2022

    Am I reading this right?

    A total of 45 oz of beans and 40 oz of tomatoes for just 2 lbs of grd beef? It seems like a lot, especially for the amount of seasoning. Even with the beans and tomatoes drained is it soupy?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 6, 2022

      Yes, that is correct. We like the consistency of this chili, it is plenty chunky, not too soupy.

      Reply

  • Linda Nelson
    October 6, 2022

    I just love all of your recipes. You are my go-to when searching for a recipe. When are you coming out with a cookbook? I want to be on the list for a couple copies, one of which will be a gift to my sister. Thanks-A-Bunch

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 6, 2022

      Thank you, Linda! So glad you enjoy them. My cookbook will be released Fall of 2023. 🙂

      Reply

  • Julie
    October 6, 2022

    I do not have a slow cooker, can I do this in the oven at a low temperature, 250, for 6 hours?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 6, 2022

      Hi Julie, I have not tested this in the oven to advise. You can experiment with it if you’d like or I recommend my turkey chili RECIPE (you can replace the turkey with beef) or my stove top beef chili RECIPE.

      Reply

    • Dane
      October 14, 2022

      You can do it on the stove top and simmer it for a few hours. The longer the better. Give more time for the flavor to marry

      Reply

  • The Doc Cappiello
    October 6, 2022

    Why not add a can of refried beans as well! Helps the consistency and taste great!

    Reply

  • Cheri Frank
    October 6, 2022

    So I live in a very rural area of Minnesota. The closest grocery store is 20 miles away. So I did a little bit of substituting. I had a pound of hamburger but I also oh have a Chuck Roast. I chopped up the truck roast extremely small and cut most of the fat away. It was probably a little bit more than a pound but I Browned all of it together with onion got rid of the fat. The other substitution I made was I did not have tomatoes with Petite chili’s. So I chopped up some jalapenos pretty small and added some of the juice. My husband likes it spicy anyway I’ll let you know how it comes out

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 6, 2022

      Hi Cheri! Yes, I would love to hear how you enjoyed the recipe. 🙂

      Reply

  • Rich
    October 5, 2022

    I found this to be a very good base recipe for me. I made it once falling a recipe and it was good. Just not spicy enough for me. The next time I made it I substituted Diced bell pepper for one of the cans of kidney beans, added some smoked paprika And one diced jalapeno for a little spice. I would definitely recommend this recipe to anybody who asks for one.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 5, 2022

      Hi Rich! I’m glad you liked this recipe. Thank you for the feedback.

      Reply

  • Ebony
    October 5, 2022

    Hi! Great recipe so far. My house smells amazing! I have a question? I misread the recipe for the diced tomato’s with green chilies! I added 2 cans of diced tomatoes and 2 4.5oz cans of green chilies. Will this make the the chili too spicy? If so what can I do to tone the spice down? Thank you,
    EB

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 5, 2022

      Hi Ebony! I think it would be ok unless you used spicy hot green chilies. I’m not sure what you could do to tone it down after it’s cooked. It would require adding more of the other ingredients to help level the spice out. You could try a dollop of sour cream and other ingredients when serving this, it may help mellow it out.

      Reply

  • Nadai
    October 4, 2022

    Plan on making this on Saturday. Can I cook the beef/onions the day before and add it to the crockpot Saturday morning?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      October 4, 2022

      Hi Nadai! I think that would be fine.

      Reply

      • Nadai
        October 5, 2022

        Thanks.

        It’s for a football game with an early start, so I don’t want to be up at 6am browning meat and stuff.

        Reply

  • Ann Marie
    October 1, 2022

    Your slow cooker chili is now my favorite, and my husband’s too! Another home run recipe!!
    Thank you Natasha!! 😁

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      October 1, 2022

      Aww, that’s the best! Thank you so much for sharing that with me, Ann Marie! I’m so happy you found a favorite on my blog. I’m all smiles

      Reply

  • Taryn M.
    September 28, 2022

    Hi, Natasha!
    This chili recipe is the bomb! I have made it several times, and it is so easy. My family loves your recipes. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 28, 2022

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review, Taryn!

      Reply

  • Heather
    September 23, 2022

    Haven’t made this yet and can’t wait to try! We use a yellow onion, not white, correct?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 23, 2022

      I hope you love this recipe, Heather! That’s correct, yellow onion!

      Reply

  • Cal
    September 21, 2022

    Your chili recipe rocks! One of my favorite things to cook in the fall and winter. Thank you, Cal

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 21, 2022

      You’re welcome, Cal! I’m glad you love this recipe.

      Reply

  • Soad Fahim
    September 20, 2022

    Hi Natasha, I’m so excited about this recipe & can’t wait until I try it.
    I’m a huge fan of your recipes. You’re doing a fabulous job, thank you.
    I’m glad I found you some years ago!
    I spread the word between my kids & my friends & they all use your website now.
    I sent you several messages on Facebook but for some reason I can’t get to them a second time to check for you replies. Now I know better to message you straight on your website.
    I love you & your family! I follow you on Facebook!!
    God bless ❤️
    Soad

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      September 20, 2022

      Hi, Soad! I’m so glad you and your family enjoy my recipes. Thank you for spreading the word, I appreciate the support. God bless!

      Reply

  • Joseph B.
    September 17, 2022

    Wow I’ve made many pots of chili and this is by far the best! Thank you for the recipe!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 17, 2022

      You’re welcome! I’m so happy you enjoyed it, Joseph!

      Reply

  • AK
    September 14, 2022

    I just realized my slow cooker is too small. So I’m using an instapot instead. Any tips on how to cook it in an instapot?

    Reply

  • Joni Cohen
    September 13, 2022

    If I were to use ground turkey instead of beef, should I just increase the spices a bit? Any suggestions?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 13, 2022

      Hi Joni, you can try our Turkey Chili recipe instead.

      Reply

  • Joanne
    September 12, 2022

    I have made this recipe several times…Love it!!

    Natasha’s Kitchen is my go to site for recipes, it’s the best especially the videos!!

    Thank you!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      September 12, 2022

      Aww, thank you, Joanne! I’m so glad you enjoy my recipes!

      Reply

  • Joe A.
    September 6, 2022

    Added fire roasted corn and jalapeños (because I like the spice) and it was awesome. Great recipe. I would easily make again.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 6, 2022

      Hi Joe, thanks for sharing and I’m glad that worked out fine!

      Reply

  • Lindsah
    September 4, 2022

    Can I place everything including the meat in the slow cooker raw without browning it first?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 4, 2022

      Hi Lindsay, I think that’s okay but just I just follow this process so it’s tastier and cooked so well.

      Reply

  • Ann
    August 18, 2022

    This recipe references canned beans. This recipe can also be made in crockpot with rinsed dry beans, correct?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      August 18, 2022

      Hi Ann. We make this recipe with rinsed canned beans, not dry beans. One of my readers has reported using dry beans but they added them after they were already cooked in a pressure cooker first.

      Reply

  • Bridgette
    August 12, 2022

    Can i diced a green pepper and 2 ribs of celery and sauté it with the onion and ground beef? Thanks

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      August 13, 2022

      Hi Bridgette, I don’t see why not. 🙂

      Reply

  • Carola
    August 9, 2022

    Gosh it smells great! Does this freeze well? I would like to have it on hand when unexpected company comes. Thanks for this easy recipe!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      August 9, 2022

      Ho Carola! I have not tried freezing this recipe to advise if it freezes well. If you experiment, please share the results with us. 🙂

      Reply

      • Tiffani
        September 11, 2022

        Hello, I haven’t made THIS chili, but I do slow cook chili and I freeze it all the time. And it thaws and reheats perfect. I just simmer on low while keeping an eye on it. But yes, and the beans are not mushy at all.

        Reply

      • Gloria graham
        September 12, 2022

        I make chili every year for the winter and I freeze it and it’s great ….just saying

        Reply

        • NatashasKitchen.com
          September 12, 2022

          That’s great! Thanks for sharing.

          Reply

  • Kent
    July 27, 2022

    Hi Natasha,

    I’ve made lots of your recipes, and I appreciate your help.

    I feel like this chili needs a tsp or 2 of sugar though.

    What do you?

    Kent

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      July 27, 2022

      Hi Kent, thanks for appreciating what we do. For the sugar, never felt that sugar needs to be added but feel free to try adding a tsp first to try!

      Reply

  • Faith
    June 22, 2022

    hello!
    This looks fantastic.
    I know light/dark kidney beans are great for chili but only have black beans on hand. Ugh! 😀 Would it work if I subbed black beans for the kidney? Thx so much!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      June 22, 2022

      Hi Faith. That should be fine.

      Reply

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