Description

A thick, rich, and comforting slow cooker chili that requires minimal prep time. This recipe uses simple pantry staples and a touch of dark chocolate for deep flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
1 large yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
2 cans (28 oz each) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no-salt-added)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 square (1 oz) dark chocolate (unsweetened or 70%)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and red bell pepper in the beef drippings for 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic in the last minute.
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
Add the rinsed kidney beans and black beans. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute spices evenly.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours (or HIGH for 3-4 hours if needed).
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the square of dark chocolate until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let sit uncovered for the last 30 minutes if a thicker consistency is desired.

Notes

For best results, brown the beef first to enhance flavor. If the chili is too thin, use a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water) and cook for 15 more minutes. This recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Variations include using turkey/chicken or making it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding mushrooms.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 375
Sugar: 8
Sodium: 650
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 25
Fiber: 8
Protein: 22

Keywords: slow cooker chili, easy dinner, meal prep, ground beef recipe, comfort food, one pot meal, healthy chili