Print

Easy Hearty 5-Ingredient Crockpot Ground Beef Chili

easy hearty crockpot ground beef chili - featured image

A simple, comforting chili made with just five ingredients and cooked low and slow in a crockpot, perfect for busy nights and minimal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 1 packet (about 2 tablespoons) chili seasoning mix
  • 14.5 ounces (411 grams) canned diced tomatoes (fire-roasted or plain, undrained)
  • 15 ounces (425 grams) canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 6-8 minutes or until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain off excess fat if needed.
  2. Transfer the browned beef to your crockpot. Add the chili seasoning mix, canned diced tomatoes (including liquid), drained kidney beans, and beef broth.
  3. Stir gently until the seasoning is evenly distributed and the ingredients are combined. Avoid over-stirring to keep the beans intact.
  4. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  5. Before serving, stir the chili and taste. Add salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar to balance acidity if needed.
  6. Ladle into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions.

Notes

Brown the beef before adding to the crockpot for better flavor and texture. Rinse beans to reduce excess salt and starch. If chili is too watery, uncover and cook on high for 15-20 minutes to thicken. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain cooking temperature. Can be adapted for vegetarian, spicy, or low-carb versions.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chili, ground beef chili, easy chili recipe, slow cooker chili, 5-ingredient chili, hearty chili, weeknight dinner