8 Best Ever Crockpot Chili Recipes
Slow cooked chili is a staple in my household, and I love just how easy it is to whip up a hearty, satisfying meal that the whole family will love tucking into! I make a big batch of it every week during the fall and winter months, and it’s perfect for serving over rice, loading on jacket potatoes, or switching things up a little by adding it to nachos or enchiladas. It’s wholesome, it’s warming, and it’s the versatile dinner that you definitely need to have in your repertoire! It’s also perfect for making a big batch and freezing the leftovers to make life a little easier on those days when you don’t want to cook.
As much as I love chili though, it’s good to shake things up a little. That’s exactly why I’ve created this collection of my 8 favorite crockpot chili recipes. From the classic beef chili, to light white chicken chili, veggie-friendly three bean chili, there’s something here for everyone, and plenty of inspiration to keep mealtimes interesting during the cozy season.
I’ve erred on the side of caution when it comes to just how spicy these recipes are, because I tend to cook and develop dishes that are family friendly. If you like things hotter though , go for it! You can easily use more or a hotter variety of chili powder, or you can add some fresh chilis too, if you like!
1. Crockpot Beef Chili
A classic that never goes out of style, this hearty beef chili is loaded with ground beef, beans, and spices for a robust flavor that’s guaranteed to satisfy. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for game days or chilly nights!
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 beef stock cube
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion and drain excess fat. Transfer to the crockpot.
- Add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine. If it starts to look a little dry during cooking, add a can of water and stir.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours. Serve hot!
2. Crockpot Turkey & Pumpkin Chili
This unique twist on chili incorporates pumpkin puree for a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, paired with savory spices. It’s a delicious way to enjoy fall flavors while still satisfying your chili cravings!
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground turkey and onion and drain excess fat. Transfer to the crockpot.
- Add pumpkin puree, beans, diced tomatoes, garlic, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours. Serve with a dollop of sour cream, and some cilantro, if you like!
3. Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese
Combining two comfort food favorites, this chili mac features pasta mixed with chili for a satisfying meal that’s always a big hit with my kids! It’s the ultimate one-pot meal that’s cheesy, hearty, and oh-so-comforting.
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion and drain excess fat. Transfer to the crockpot.
- Add the remaining ingredients (except cheese) and stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours. Stir in cheese before serving and let it melt!
4. Crockpot White Chicken Chili
This creamy, flavorful chili features tender chicken, white beans, and a hint of green chiles for a delicious twist. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional chili, and it’s beautifully creamy and satisfying! Because it uses chicken breasts, I recommend less cooking time than more traditional chilis. Of course, every slow cooker is different, so you may want to use a meat thermometer for extra peace of mind before shredding your chicken. It should be 165ºF.
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot. Add remaining ingredients.
- Cook on low for 3-4 hours. Shred chicken before serving.
5. Crockpot Turkey Chili
This lean turkey chili is packed with flavor and is a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste! It’s a lighter take on chili that’s still hearty and satisfying for those cold winter nights.
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 stick celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground turkey with the onion and celery and drain excess fat. Transfer to the crockpot.
- Add remaining ingredients and stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours. Serve hot!
6. Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Chili
This spicy and flavorful chili combines buffalo chicken with classic chili ingredients for a game-day favorite! It’s perfect for those who love a kick of heat and want something a little bit different.
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place chicken in the crockpot. Add remaining ingredients on top.
- Cook on low for 3-4 hours. Shred chicken before serving.
7. Crockpot Three Bean Chili
A delicious blend of beans, this vegetarian chili is hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. It’s a fantastic option for meatless Mondays or for serving a crowd with diverse diets!
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 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 (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté the onion, then combine all ingredients in the crockpot.
- Stir well and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours. Serve with cornbread!
8. Crockpot Sweet Potato Chili
This unique chili combines sweet potatoes with traditional chili ingredients for a nutritious and flavorful meal. It’s a wonderful balance of sweet and savory that makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Saute the onion and garlic, then combine all ingredients in the crockpot.
- Stir well and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours. Serve warm with toppings of your choice!
These 8 Best Crockpot Chili Recipes are the perfect way to warm up during the chilly months! Each recipe brings its unique twist on the classic dish, while being easy to prepare in your trusty slow cooker. I hope you love them as much as I do – be sure to leave a comment below and share your thoughts!