Introduction to Crockpot Southwest Style Chili: A Flavorful Family Favorite!

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore my Crockpot Southwest Style Chili: A Flavorful Family Favorite! This hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Imagine coming home after a long day to the rich aroma of chili wafting through your kitchen. It’s the perfect solution for those hectic evenings when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this chili will quickly become a staple in your home!

Crockpot Southwest Style Chili: Discover Your New Favorite!

Author: Chef Shana
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and flavorful chili made in a crockpot, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Transfer the cooked beef to the crockpot.
Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
Stir all ingredients until well combined.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or additional beans.
Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce.
This chili can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Southwestern

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Southwest Style Chili

This Crockpot Southwest Style Chili is a game-changer for busy families. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the magic. The flavors meld beautifully over time, creating a rich, hearty dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Crockpot Southwest Style Chili

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Crockpot Southwest Style Chili. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef: This adds a hearty base to your chili. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Black beans: These provide protein and a lovely texture. Canned beans are convenient, but dried beans work too if you soak them overnight.
Kidney beans: Another great source of protein, they add a pop of color and flavor. Feel free to swap with pinto beans if you prefer.
Corn: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch. You can use frozen corn if fresh isn’t available.
Diced tomatoes: They create a rich, saucy base. Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra smoky flavor.
Onion: Chopped onion brings depth to the dish. Yellow or white onions work best, but red onions can add a nice sweetness.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the chili with aromatic goodness. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
Chili powder: This is the star of the show, giving your chili that signature kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin enhances the southwestern flavor profile. It’s a must-have in chili!
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color. You can use sweet or smoked paprika depending on your preference.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Always taste and adjust to your liking.

For those looking to customize, you can find the exact quantities of these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Crockpot Southwest Style Chili

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Crockpot Southwest Style Chili! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal that warms the soul.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial because browning the beef enhances its flavor, giving your chili a rich, savory base. Don’t forget to break it up with a spatula as it cooks!

Step 2: Transfer to the Crockpot

Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain any excess fat. Then, transfer the beef to your crockpot. This step is important because it allows the flavors to meld together as everything cooks slowly. Plus, it keeps your chili nice and hearty!

Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the magic! Toss in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. This is where the flavors start to dance together, creating that signature southwest taste!

Step 4: Stir and Cook

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Give it a gentle stir halfway through if you can. This helps ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed and flavors are well blended. The longer it cooks, the better it tastes!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

When your chili is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. I love adding shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Serve it with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a complete meal. Enjoy every warm, flavorful bite!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients the night before to save time.
Don’t skip browning the beef; it adds depth to the flavor.
Adjust spices to suit your family’s taste; add jalapeños for heat!
For a thicker chili, mash some beans before adding them.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for easy meals later.

Equipment Needed

Crockpot: A slow cooker is essential. If you don’t have one, a heavy pot on low heat works too.
Skillet: For browning the beef. A non-stick pan makes cleanup easier.
Spatula: Perfect for breaking up the meat and stirring ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.

Variations of Crockpot Southwest Style Chili

Vegetarian Chili: Swap the ground beef for lentils or additional beans for a hearty, meat-free option.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to turn up the heat!
Sweet and Smoky: Incorporate smoked paprika and a touch of brown sugar for a unique flavor twist.
Quinoa Chili: Mix in cooked quinoa for added protein and a delightful texture.
Low-Carb Option: Replace beans with diced zucchini or cauliflower for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Southwest Style Chili

Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping.
Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up that delicious chili.
Fresh Salad: A light green salad balances the hearty chili.
Cold Beverages: Pair with iced tea or a light beer.
Garnish: Top with avocado slices or jalapeños for extra flair!

FAQs about Crockpot Southwest Style Chili

Can I make this chili vegetarian? Absolutely! You can easily swap the ground beef for lentils or additional beans. This way, you still get a hearty meal without the meat.

How can I adjust the spice level? If you like it spicy, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. For a milder version, simply reduce the chili powder.

Can I freeze leftovers? Yes! This chili freezes beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container, and it will last up to three months. Perfect for quick meals later!

What toppings do you recommend? I love garnishing with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Avocado slices or jalapeños also add a nice touch!

How long does it take to cook? You can cook this chili on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors develop!

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Crockpot Southwest Style Chili is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The aroma fills your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each spoonful is a burst of flavor, warming not just your belly but your heart. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this chili brings comfort and joy. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies and protein for the family. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your home, just as it has in mine!