Simple Crockpot Beef Chili for Game Day Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add a bit of extra texture, consider stir in a small amount of cooked beans or corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking. While this recipe focuses on a traditional beef base, these additions can provide a heartier feel.

Always taste the chili before serving to ensure the seasoning level meets your preference, as different brands of chili packets can vary significantly in their salt and spice content.

If you find the chili is too thick after the cooking time, stir in a quarter cup of water or beef stock at a time until you reach your desired consistency. For a more intense flavor, you can sauté the onions in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker, though this is optional. Always serve in pre-warmed bowls to help keep the chili at the perfect eating temperature for longer.

Variations

• Spicy Kick Chili: Add a diced fresh habanero or a tablespoon of hot sauce to the slow cooker to increase the heat level for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Loaded Chili: Incorporate diced bell peppers and celery during the first phase to add extra crunch and a subtle sweetness that complements the savory beef base.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until steaming hot, or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

Allow any leftover chili to cool to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, the chili will maintain its quality in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To maximize freshness, store the toppings separately and add them only when serving. Reheat only the amount you intend to eat, as repeated reheating can affect the texture of the beef.

This chili is an excellent candidate for making ahead of time as the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. Prepare the dish as instructed, then cool it quickly before storing it in the refrigerator.

You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you are ready to serve. This makes it perfect for stress-free game day hosting or quick weekday dinners.

Serving ideas

Serve the chili piping hot in deep bowls, ensuring each portion gets a generous amount of the beef and tomato sauce. Provide a variety of toppings like shredded cheddar, sour cream, and jalapeño slices so guests can customize their bowls according to their preferences.

A side of cornbread or tortilla chips makes an excellent accompaniment that adds a satisfying crunch and balances the richness of the chili.

For a buffet-style serving, place the slow cooker on a warm setting if your model allows, or transfer the chili to a serving dish. Arrange the toppings in small bowls around the main pot to make it easy for everyone to assemble their own portions. This communal approach encourages interaction and allows guests to control their spice levels and portion sizes throughout the event.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Simple Crockpot Beef Chili for Game Day

Prep 10 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 10 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 lb cooked ground beef
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1 packet chili seasoning
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• shredded cheddar cheese, for serving
• sour cream, for serving
• jalapeño slices, for serving

Instructions

1. Place the cooked ground beef into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Scatter the diced onions evenly over the beef.
2. Sprinkle the chili seasoning packet over the onion layer. Pour the crushed tomatoes over the top of all other ingredients.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours. Once the chili reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), serve hot in bowls topped with cheddar, sour cream, and jalapeños.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

350

Protein

25 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

22 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.