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Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chili

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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the beef

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat, then transfer the meat to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the aromatics

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.

Step 3: Add remaining ingredients

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.

Step 4: Slow cook to perfection

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.

Step 5: Serve and garnish

Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions or cilantro.