Chili has deep roots in American Southwestern cuisine, particularly in Texas, where it became a comfort food staple. The Pioneer Woman’s version modernizes this classic, using a slow cooker to make the process nearly effortless. The long, gentle cooking process allows the meat and spices to blend beautifully for a thick, robust chili that’s both simple and satisfying.
2 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup beef broth
Optional toppings:
Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Sliced green onions
Fresh cilantro
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat, then transfer the meat to your slow cooker.
Add diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened, then add them to the slow cooker.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, both types of beans, beef broth, and all the seasonings — chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor becomes.
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions or cilantro.