Slow Cooker Hearty No-Bean Chili

Few recipes satisfy quite like a steaming bowl of no-bean chili piled high with all the toppings This slow cooker version packs in two kinds of ground beef a rich tomato base and layers of seasonings for deep comfort The best part is that you can toss everything together in the morning and return hours later to a meal that makes the whole house smell incredible This has become a football Sunday favorite at our place and even the no-bean skeptics come back for seconds

I first made this on a chilly day when I wanted comfort food without extra fuss The slower simmering really draws out the flavors and now it is my go to chili for gatherings and meal prepping alike

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: adds balanced flavor and keeps the chili from being greasy Choose a fresh bright pink color
• Ground chuck: provides richness and a hearty texture Always opt for freshly ground for best taste
• Tomato sauce: helps bring everything together Look for low sodium if you want more control over seasoning
• Diced tomatoes: bring pockets of tang and texture Choose fire roasted for deeper flavor if you can find it
• Tomato paste: concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the chili Make sure it is deep red and not dull in color
• White onion: offers sweetness and depth A firm onion with no soft spots is best
• Green bell pepper: brings freshness and color Pick one that feels heavy for its size and has shiny skin
• Chili powder: is the backbone of this dish Use your favorite blend or try smokier varieties for a twist
• Ground cumin: adds earthiness and a classic chili taste Freshly opened spice is more fragrant
• Minced garlic or garlic powder: brings a punch of flavor Choose garlic with no sprouting or try powder for convenience
• Dried oregano: lifts the overall flavor profile Go for leaves that have a strong rosemary scent
• Granulated sugar: balances acidity from the tomatoes Just a pinch is needed
• Cayenne pepper: adds gentle heat Adjust to your spice preference
• Salt and pepper: are essential for seasoning Taste as you go to make it just right

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown and Crumble the Beef:

Begin by cooking both types of ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and let it brown thoroughly Keep stirring frequently so it cooks evenly Once there is no more pink and the beef is crumbly drain off the excess fat This prevents the chili from turning greasy and helps unlock the beef's savory notes

Combine All Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:

Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker Add in the tomato sauce diced tomatoes and tomato paste then layer on the chopped onion and green bell pepper Sprinkle in the chili powder cumin minced garlic oregano sugar and cayenne pepper Finish with a generous pinch of salt and pepper Stir well to blend all the ingredients evenly Each addition adds layers of flavor so take a moment to really mix

Slow Cook to Perfect Flavor:

Set your slow cooker to low for eight hours or high for four hours Cover tightly to keep in moisture and let the flavors meld Resist the urge to open the lid too often as this lets out precious heat and steam The chili will look thin at first but it thickens as it cooks and the tomato base is absorbed by the meat and vegetables

Serve and Enjoy:

After it is done cooking give the chili a stir Taste and adjust seasoning if needed Scoop into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese a dollop of sour cream or your favorite chili accompaniments This is the moment where all those slow simmered flavors come together

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I always look forward to adding the green pepper because it brings such a fresh snap to each bite When we serve this on game day I remember my kids crowding around the slow cooker hovering just for the aroma and sneaking a taste before dinner is officially ready

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to four days The flavors only get better overnight For longer storage freeze individual portions in freezer safe bags or containers and thaw them in the fridge before reheating The chili reheats beautifully on the stove or in the microwave just add a splash of water if it has thickened too much

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a lighter chili swap one pound of ground beef for ground turkey or chicken For extra vegetables sneak in diced carrots or celery Pico de gallo can be substituted for half of the tomatoes for fresh flair To adjust heat switch out cayenne for chipotle powder or add diced jalapenos

Serving Suggestions

Spoon over steamed rice for a filling meal or tuck it inside baked potatoes for a cozy twist Try topping your bowl with jalapeno slices avocado or even salsa for an extra layer of flavor Cornbread wedges and a crisp green salad make this a truly satisfying dinner We find it is a kid crowd pleaser just as much as an adult favorite

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Cultural Context

Texas style chili famously skips the beans just like this recipe The focus is on the deep taste of good meat and spices and every household adds their personal take This no bean version honors that tradition while being easy enough for busy weeknights and big enough for sharing with friends

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use just one type of ground beef?

Yes, you can use either lean ground beef or ground chuck alone if you prefer. Blending both creates a richer texture, but a single variety works as well.

→ How can I adjust the chili's spiciness?

For a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder and cayenne. If you want more heat, add extra cayenne or chopped jalapeños.

→ Is it necessary to drain the diced tomatoes?

Draining helps control the chili's consistency, preventing it from becoming too watery as it simmers in the slow cooker.

→ How do I thicken the chili if it's too thin?

If your chili seems too liquid, let it cook uncovered for the final 20 minutes or stir in extra tomato paste until it reaches the desired consistency.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Cool leftovers promptly, then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ What toppings go well with this chili?

Classic toppings include shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped onions, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor and texture.