Name: Crock Pot Chili For Two: Comforting Weeknight Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ pound ground beef or other ground meat; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped or 1 tablespoon dry chopped onions; 8 ounces canned tomato sauce; 15.5 ounces canned dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; ½ teaspoon cumin; ¼ teaspoon salt; ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ cup water (optional but recommended)

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Crock Pot Chili For two is a hearty and flavorful dish that has become a staple for easy weeknight meals. With its rich blend of spices, ground beef, and kidney beans, this slow-cooked delight is not only satisfying but also perfect for those who want to enjoy a comforting dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of using a crock pot lies in its ability to meld flavors over time, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. Let’s dive into this easy chili for crock pot recipe that will have you coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chili For

There are countless reasons to love this Crock Pot Chili For! First, it’s a fantastic slow cooker chili for busy individuals or families. You can prepare it in just 15 minutes and let the crock pot do the work. This dish is also versatile; you can easily adjust the heat level or add your favorite toppings. It’s a healthy option, especially when you consider the best ingredients for crock pot chili include lean ground beef and kidney beans. Additionally, this chili is gluten-free and can be made vegetarian by swapping out the meat. Perfect for cozy nights, this dish is a one-pot wonder that serves two, making it ideal for date nights or intimate dinners.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Chili For

Gather these items:

½ pound ground beef or other ground meat
1 clove garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped or 1 tablespoon dry chopped onions
8 ounces canned tomato sauce
15.5 ounces canned dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 ½ tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ cup water (optional but recommended)

How to Make Crock Pot Chili For Step-by-Step

Step 1: Add the ground meat to a pre-heated skillet over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. After about 2 minutes, add the chopped onion and continue cooking. When the meat is almost done browning, about 4 to 5 minutes after starting, add the minced garlic. Once cooked through, drain the fat and transfer the mixture to a small crock pot.
Step 2: Rinse and drain the canned kidney beans thoroughly, then add them directly into the crock pot with the meat mixture.
Step 3: Pour in the canned tomato sauce, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, salt, ground black pepper, and optional water. Stir everything together to combine evenly. Cover and cook on low heat for 8 hours or on high heat for 4 hours until all flavors meld and the chili is thick and hearty.

Pro Tips for the Best Crock Pot Chili For

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
Feel free to experiment with spices for a spicier crock pot chili.
Let the chili sit for a few minutes after cooking for the flavors to deepen.
For an even thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans before adding them.

Crock Pot Chili For Two: Comforting Weeknight Delight - Crock Pot Chili For - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Crock Pot Chili For

This Crock Pot Chili For is best served hot and can be enjoyed in various ways. Consider topping it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. You can also serve it with cornbread or over rice for a more filling meal. For a lighter option, pair it with a simple side salad to balance the rich flavors of the chili.

How to Store and Reheat Crock Pot Chili For

Storing your Crock Pot Chili For is easy! After cooking, let it cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. This chili also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just be sure to store it in freezer-safe containers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chili For

What’s the secret to perfect Crock Pot Chili For?

The secret to perfect Crock Pot Chili For lies in allowing it to cook low and slow. This method ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, using fresh ingredients like quality ground beef and well-rinsed beans enhances the overall taste. Don’t rush the cooking process!

Can I make Crock Pot Chili For ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, how to make crock pot chili ahead of time is a great way to save time during busy weeks. You can prepare it the night before, store it in the fridge, and then simply turn on the crock pot in the morning. It’s perfect for quick dinners!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crock Pot Chili For?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to not skip the browning step for the meat. This adds depth of flavor to your chili. Also, be cautious with the spices; start with less and adjust to your taste. Remember, you can always add more but can’t take it out!

Crock Pot Chili For Two: Comforting Weeknight Delight - Crock Pot Chili For - additional detail

Variations of Crock Pot Chili For You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider trying a vegetarian crock pot chili by substituting the ground beef with lentils or other beans. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or chipotle peppers. You can also explore healthy crock pot chili options by using ground turkey or chicken, making it a low-carb chili for those watching their intake. Each variation brings a new twist to this classic dish!

For more tips on making chili, check out this slow cooker chili recipe that offers additional insights.

To learn about the health benefits of beans, visit Healthline’s article on beans.

For a delicious cornbread recipe to pair with your chili, check out this cornbread recipe.