Hearty Slow Cooker Beef and Turkey Chili
↓ Jump to RecipeDiscover this easy slow cooker chili recipe made with ground beef and turkey. A perfect pantry staple meal for busy weeknights and cozy family gatherings.
- Prep 15 min
- Cook 30 min
- 6 servings
- Main Dish
Table of contents
There is nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of homemade chili, especially on a chilly evening. This hearty slow-cooker chili is the ultimate solution for families who want a traditional taste without hours of labor. By using a combination of ground beef and ground turkey, you get a protein-packed meal that is both satisfying and balanced. It relies on simple pantry staples, making it an accessible option for any cook regardless of level.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or large family gatherings where you need a crowd ple. The texture is thick and rich, with tender beans and savory meat in every bite. You will find deep, smoky notes from the chili powder and cumin, complemented by a hint of smoked paprika that provides a warm, lingering finish that all ages will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 40 minutes of active time
- Uses simple pantry-friendly ingredients
- Balanced protein with beef and turkey
- One-pot method for easy cleanup
- Perfectly customizable for different spice levels
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
- 1 pound (450 g) ground turkey
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
Equipment
Hearty Slow Cooker Beef and Turkey Chili
Discover this easy slow cooker chili recipe made with ground beef and turkey. A perfect pantry staple meal for busy weeknights and cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. This process releases their natural sweetness and creates a foundational flavor base for your chili sauce.
- Cook the Garlic. Stir the minced garlic into the skillet and cook for just another 30 seconds. Be very careful not to let the garlic burn, as burnt garlic adds an unwanted bitterness to the entire pot. Once fragrant, move immediately to the next step.
- Brown the Meat. Add the ground beef and ground turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small chunks, cooking until it is no longer pink. This step ensures proper Maillard browning, which is essential for developing a deep, savory flavor.
- Toast the Spices. Season the meat with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Let the spices toast briefly in the hot pan for a minute; this activates the oils and intensifies the aromatic qualities before the liquid is added.
- Combine in Slow Cooker. Transfer the cooked meat mixture into the slow cooker. Pour in the diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, black beans, and broth. The liquid helps the beans meld with the meat and ensures all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cooking vessel.
- Slow Cook and Serve. Stir everything together and cover the lid. Set the slow cooker to high for 25 minutes. This high setting speeds up the process significantly while still allowing the complex flavors to meld. Give it a final stir, taste to adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
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