Easy Slow Cooker Chili
This is Bridget’s go-to slow cooker chili — simple, hearty, and made with fresh Serranos for just the right kick.
There’s just something about chili on a chilly day. It warms the house, fills the kitchen with comfort, and brings everyone wandering in asking, “Is it ready yet?”
Letting this naturally gluten-free chili cook low and slow gives the flavors time to mingle—like friends at a church potluck who planned to stay an hour and end up staying all afternoon. This is a large-batch slow cooker chili, perfect for feeding a crowd or stocking the freezer for busy days ahead.
Why I Love Cooking with Serrano Chilies
When my husband and I got married 27 years ago, he made a confession that nearly stopped me in my tracks—he doesn’t care for chili powder. Who doesn’t like chili powder?!
That little revelation sent me on a mission to rethink how I build flavor in chili, and that’s where Serrano chilies came in.
Growing up in the Midwest, spicy food wasn’t exactly front and center on our table. I tried jalapeños over the years, but Serranos won my heart. They have a cleaner, brighter flavor—and in my opinion, they bring more depth to chili.
Now, a quick confession of my own: I don’t seed them. Ever.
After one unfortunate encounter involving chili seeds and my face (learn from my mistakes, friends), I decided life was better with the seeds left in. I buy Serranos in bulk, mince them, freeze them in small portions, and use them as needed. Funny thing is—once frozen, even a mild Serrano seems to wake up a little. 🌶️
Easy Slow Cooker Chili Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large skillet optional, but recommended
- 1 slow cooker
Ingredients
- 3 lbs ground beef
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves 2 teaspoons
- 3 tsp cumin, ground
- 3 tsp oregano leaves, dried
- 3 tsp cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 1 to 3 Serrano chilies, finely minced 1 Serrano = mild heat. 2 Serranos = medium heat (a good replacement for 1 tsp cayenne). 3 Serranos = “Woo! That’ll warm your winter coat!”
- 3 15 oz. cans red kidney beans do not drain
- 3 15 oz. cans tomato sauce
Instructions
Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. When no longer pink, drain excess grease if needed.
Add the Onions & Garlic
- Stir in the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Pour into Slow Cooker & Season the Pot
- Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Stir in the cumin, oregano, cocoa powder, salt (to taste), and minced Serrano chilies. Add the tomato sauce and kidney beans. Stir well to combine.Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6–8 hours, until rich, thick, and deeply flavorful.
Notes
- Serrano chilies vary in heat; adjust the amount to your preference.
- This chili freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Do not drain the kidney beans—this helps create a rich, hearty texture.
What to Serve with Easy Slow Cooker Chili
I hope you and your family enjoy this easy slow cooker chili as much as we do. It’s one of those recipes you can start, walk away from, and come back to something truly comforting—no fuss required.
Bridget’s Freezer-Friendly Tips
This chili freezes beautifully, which makes it perfect for busy weeks, unexpected company, or nights when cooking just isn’t happening.
Cool completely before freezing.
Let the chili cool to room temperature so excess moisture doesn’t create ice crystals.
Portion before freezing.
Freeze in 1–2 cup portions for quick meals or family-size containers for easy dinners. Freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, both work well.
Label and date.
Trust me—frozen chili all looks the same after a while. A quick label saves the “Is this chili or spaghetti sauce?” guessing game.
Freeze flat if using bags.
Lay freezer bags flat until frozen, then stack them like books. It saves space and thaws faster.
How long it keeps:
Chili will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat:
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat from frozen on the stovetop or in the slow cooker, stirring occasionally.
Howdy, Bridget | Happy Healthy Homey
Final Thoughts
I hope you and your family enjoy this easy slow cooker chili as much as we do. It’s one of those recipes you can start, walk away from, and come back to something truly comforting—no fuss required.
If cozy, from-scratch dinners are your thing, you might also enjoy my gluten-free chicken fried steak—another recipe our family comes back to again and again.
From my happy, healthy home to yours,
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