Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is the ultimate comfort meal that proves you don’t need to spend much to eat well. This hearty dish combines tender ground beef, flavorful beans, and rich spices into a slow-cooked masterpiece that warms you from the inside out.
Whether you’re feeding a family, cooking for a crowd, or just meal-prepping for the week, this recipe makes it effortless to stay on budget without sacrificing taste. With only a few affordable ingredients and your slow cooker doing most of the work, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Unlike stovetop chili, the Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans simmers low and slow, allowing all the spices, beef, and beans to blend beautifully. The result? A thick, flavorful chili that tastes even better the next day. Plus, it’s flexible — you can adjust the heat, swap ingredients, and stretch your servings without stretching your wallet.
In this guide, you’ll discover how to make the best Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans, with easy steps, smart substitutions, and budget-saving tips. Get ready to enjoy a wholesome, money-saving meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans
There are countless chili recipes out there, but this Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans stands out for its simplicity, rich flavor, and budget-friendliness. It’s proof that you can create a filling, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen or emptying your wallet.
1. It’s Incredibly Budget-Friendly
Every ingredient in this chili is readily available and affordable. Ground beef, canned beans, and tomatoes are pantry staples that deliver big on flavor while keeping costs low. This makes it perfect for families looking to save money on weeknight dinners.
2. Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor
Thanks to the slow cooker, all you need to do is toss in your ingredients and let time do the work. As the chili simmers, the beef becomes tender, and the beans soak up the rich, spiced sauce. The result is a deep, hearty flavor that tastes as if it has been simmering all day.
3. Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers
This recipe makes generous portions that store beautifully. You can refrigerate leftovers for quick lunches or freeze them for future dinners. In fact, the flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
4. A Family Favorite for Any Season
While chili is a classic comfort food for cold weather, this Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans works year-round. Serve it at potlucks, game nights, or casual dinners — it’s always a hit.
5. Customizable to Your Taste
Love spicy chili? Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Prefer a lighter version? Use lean ground turkey or skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian take. The recipe is flexible enough to suit everyone’s preferences while keeping it budget-conscious.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients Breakdown
One of the best things about Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is that it uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Each item is affordable, nutritious, and easy to find in any grocery store.
Below is a breakdown of the key ingredients and their approximate cost per recipe. This table helps you see how inexpensive it is to prepare a large, hearty batch of chili.
Key Ingredients and Estimated Costs
| Ingredient | Approx. Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (1 lb, 80/20 or lean) | $4.50 | Rich flavor and satisfying protein |
| Canned kidney beans (1 can, 15 oz) | $1.00 | Adds texture and fiber |
| Canned black beans (1 can, 15 oz) | $1.00 | Enhances nutrition and flavor variety |
| Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz) | $1.50 | Provides acidity and depth |
| Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz) | $1.00 | Helps create a thick, rich chili base |
| Onion (1 medium) | $0.80 | Adds sweetness and aroma |
| Garlic (3 cloves) | $0.30 | Boosts flavor complexity |
| Chili powder | $0.50 | Essential spice blend for heat |
| Ground cumin | $0.30 | Adds warm, earthy flavor |
| Paprika | $0.25 | Mild spice and color |
| Salt and black pepper | — | Adjust to taste |
| Beef broth or water (1 cup) | $0.50 | Controls consistency and enhances taste |
Estimated Total Cost: $11.65 for 6 servings
Cost Per Serving: Approximately $1.94
Budget Tips
- Buy in bulk: Purchase beans, canned tomatoes, and spices in multipacks to lower costs.
- Use store brands: Generic brands taste just as good for a fraction of the price.
- Freeze leftovers: This chili freezes beautifully and reheats quickly for another meal.
- Substitute smartly: Use ground turkey, lentils, or extra beans if you want to cut costs further.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is incredibly simple. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the flavors to deepen over time. Follow these straightforward steps for a perfect result every time.
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
This step develops flavor and removes excess fat.
Drain any excess grease before transferring the beef to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic.
Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
This creates a flavorful base for your chili.
Add them to the slow cooker with the cooked beef.
3. Add the Core Ingredients
Now, add the remaining ingredients to your crockpot:
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Kidney beans and black beans (drained and rinsed)
- Beef broth or water
- Chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper
Stir well to combine all flavors evenly.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crockpot with its lid.
Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
As it cooks slowly, the beans absorb the spices, and the beef becomes incredibly tender.
You’ll notice the sauce thickening naturally over time.
5. Adjust and Taste
Once the cooking time is up, give your chili a gentle stir.
Taste and adjust the seasoning — add more chili powder for heat or salt for balance.
If you prefer a thicker texture, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans hot, right out of the slow cooker.
Add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or sour cream.
Pair with rice, cornbread, or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Quick Cooking Tips
- Stir once halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Use a 6-quart crockpot if doubling the recipe for larger families or meal prep.
- For a smoky flavor, add a small amount of chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop.
Tips for Making the Perfect Crockpot Chili
Even though Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is simple to prepare, a few expert tips can elevate it from good to unforgettable. These tricks ensure every bowl is rich, flavorful, and perfectly textured.
1. Choose the Right Ground Beef
For the best balance of flavor and texture, use 80/20 ground beef — it contains just enough fat to keep the chili juicy without making it greasy.
If you prefer a leaner version, choose 90/10 beef or mix half beef with ground turkey. This keeps it both healthy and affordable.
2. Layer the Flavors
Instead of adding all ingredients at once, take a few minutes to brown the beef and sauté the aromatics (onion and garlic).
This simple step builds a flavor foundation that slow cooking alone can’t achieve.
It’s a key difference between a mild chili and one bursting with depth.
3. Use Quality Spices
Chili flavor depends heavily on spices.
Use fresh chili powder, cumin, and paprika for maximum impact.
For added complexity, include a pinch of smoked paprika or ground coriander.
Toast the spices briefly in the pan before adding them to release their oils and enhance aroma.
4. Mix Up Your Beans
A mix of kidney beans and black beans creates texture and nutritional diversity.
You can also add pinto beans for extra creaminess.
If using canned beans, rinse them first to remove excess sodium and starch.
5. Control the Heat
Adjusting the spice level makes this chili family-friendly.
For mild chili, stick with the basic spice blend.
For more heat, add chopped jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a touch of cayenne.
Spices bloom as they cook, so it’s better to start mild and increase later.
6. Perfect the Texture
If your chili is too thin, remove the lid for the final 30 minutes of cooking.
This allows liquid to reduce naturally, creating a thicker, more satisfying consistency.
For a creamier finish, mash some of the beans with the back of a spoon and stir them in.
7. Don’t Skip the Rest Time
Once your chili is done, let it sit uncovered for 10–15 minutes before serving.
This allows the sauce to settle and the flavors to blend even more.
A short rest can make a big difference in taste and texture.
8. Make It Your Own
You can personalize Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans easily.
Add corn for sweetness, bell peppers for crunch, or even cocoa powder for a subtle smoky note.
These variations add personality while keeping it budget-conscious.
Crockpot Chili Variations
One of the best things about Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is how flexible it is. You can modify it based on your diet, taste preferences, or what’s already in your pantry. These easy variations help you create new flavors while staying within your budget.
1. Crockpot Chili with Ground Turkey and Beans
Swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey.
It’s lighter, lower in fat, and still full of flavor.
Add an extra teaspoon of olive oil to balance the lean meat.
This version is perfect for those watching calories but still craving comfort food.
2. Vegetarian Crockpot Chili with Beans Only
Skip the meat entirely and load up on beans, lentils, and vegetables.
Use a mix of black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans for protein and texture.
Add diced zucchini, corn, or bell peppers to make it more colorful and nutritious.
It’s an easy, affordable, and satisfying meat-free option.
3. Spicy Crockpot Chili with Jalapeños and Peppers
If you love heat, this variation is for you.
Add chopped jalapeños, green chiles, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
You can also use fire-roasted tomatoes to enhance the smoky flavor.
This version delivers bold, spicy depth while staying rich and hearty.
4. Crockpot Chili with Sweet Corn and Bell Peppers
Add one cup of sweet corn kernels and one diced bell pepper to your base recipe.
This gives a light, fresh sweetness that balances the savory spices.
It’s a great way to stretch the recipe and sneak in extra vegetables.
5. Smoky BBQ Crockpot Chili
Replace part of the tomato sauce with ½ cup of your favorite barbecue sauce.
This adds a smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with ground beef.
It’s a crowd-pleaser for game nights or casual family dinners.
6. Crockpot Chili with Mixed Meats
Combine ground beef, sausage, or bacon bits for a deeper flavor profile.
This variation adds richness and turns your chili into a hearty one-pot meal.
It’s ideal when you have leftover meats you want to use creatively.
7. Crockpot Chili with Quinoa or Rice
Stir in ½ cup of cooked quinoa or rice during the last hour of cooking.
It thickens the chili naturally and increases the fiber and protein content.
This makes it even more filling — and still under budget.
Quick Note
Each of these versions can be prepared with the same base steps and slow-cooking time.
Feel free to experiment with spice levels, toppings, or additional vegetables to make each version your own.
Make It Budget-Friendly
Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is already an affordable recipe, but with a few smart tricks, you can make it even cheaper while keeping the same rich flavor and hearty texture. Here’s how to stretch your ingredients, save money, and get the most out of every batch.
1. Buy Ingredients in Bulk
Purchase pantry staples like canned beans, diced tomatoes, and spices in bulk or during sales.
Large packs from warehouse stores or discount supermarkets can save you up to 30–40% over time.
Store extra cans in a cool, dry place — they last for months and are perfect for future meals.
2. Substitute Smartly
When prices rise, substitute ingredients without losing flavor:
- Use ground turkey, chicken, or lentils instead of beef.
- Replace beef broth with water and a pinch of bouillon.
- Add extra beans or vegetables to stretch the chili further.
These swaps keep the dish affordable and still satisfying.
3. Use Seasonal Vegetables
Enhance your chili with seasonal produce like corn, peppers, or carrots.
Seasonal vegetables are fresher, cheaper, and more flavorful.
They also boost the nutritional value of the meal without increasing your grocery bill.
4. Stretch It with Grains
Adding rice, quinoa, or barley makes the chili heartier and helps it feed more people.
These grains soak up the sauce beautifully and make each serving more filling.
You can mix them in during the last hour of cooking or serve the chili on top for variety.
5. Reuse and Repurpose Leftovers
Don’t let any leftovers go to waste. Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is extremely versatile.
You can turn it into:
- Burrito filling – wrap in tortillas with cheese and rice.
- Chili-topped baked potatoes – a simple and filling dinner.
- Nachos or quesadillas – perfect for game night.
- Stuffed bell peppers – bake chili inside hollowed peppers with melted cheese.
Each variation offers a fresh way to enjoy your chili without cooking a new meal.
6. Freeze for Future Meals
This chili freezes beautifully.
Allow it to cool completely, portion it into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat in a saucepan or microwave for an instant dinner.
Freezing leftovers helps reduce food waste and saves time on busy days.
7. Make Your Own Spice Blend
Buying individual spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika can get expensive.
Instead, make a homemade chili seasoning mix in bulk using affordable store-brand spices.
Store it in a small airtight jar — it’s cheaper and lets you control the flavor balance.
With these easy habits, you’ll enjoy flavorful, filling meals for under $2 per serving — proof that eating well on a budget is absolutely possible.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
One of the best things about Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is that it’s both satisfying and nutritious. It delivers plenty of protein, fiber, and vitamins while keeping calories in check — ideal for anyone who wants to eat healthy on a budget.
Below is the approximate nutrition breakdown per serving (based on six servings from one batch):
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 kcal | Provides steady energy without heaviness |
| Protein | 25 g | Builds and repairs muscles |
| Total Fat | 10 g | Adds flavor and helps absorb nutrients |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g | Keep moderate for heart health |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g | Supplies energy for daily activity |
| Dietary Fiber | 7 g | Promotes fullness and good digestion |
| Sugars | 4 g | Naturally from tomatoes and beans |
| Sodium | 580 mg | Adjust by using low-sodium beans and broth |
| Iron | 15% DV | Supports healthy blood and energy levels |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV | Boosts immunity and iron absorption |
Healthy Eating Notes
- Use leaner beef (90/10) or ground turkey to reduce fat.
- Add more beans or vegetables for fiber and volume.
- Choose low-sodium canned goods to keep salt levels balanced.
- Pair with a side salad for extra nutrients and freshness.
This balance of protein, carbs, and fiber makes the dish ideal for meal prep, weight management, or simply maintaining healthy eating habits on a budget.
Storage and Reheating Tips
One reason Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is a household favorite is its ability to store and reheat beautifully. With proper storage, you can enjoy multiple meals from a single batch without losing flavor or texture.
1. Refrigerating Your Chili
Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For best results, divide it into single-portion containers — this makes quick reheating easier and keeps it fresh longer.
Avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than two hours to maintain food safety.
2. Freezing for Long-Term Storage
Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans freezes exceptionally well.
After cooling, portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags.
Label each container with the date and contents.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Pro Tip: Lay freezer bags flat before freezing. Once solid, you can stack them vertically to save space.
3. Reheating on the Stove
Place thawed or refrigerated chili in a saucepan.
Add a splash of water or broth if it appears too thick.
Warm over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — flavors often deepen after storage.
4. Reheating in the Microwave
For single portions, microwave in a covered dish for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Use medium power to prevent splattering and uneven heating.
Let it rest for a minute before serving — this allows heat to distribute evenly.
5. Refreshing Leftovers
If your chili thickens after refrigeration, loosen it with a small amount of broth, tomato sauce, or water.
Reheat gently and top with fresh garnishes like cheese, sour cream, or cilantro to bring it back to life.
6. Safety Reminder
Always ensure your reheated chili reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Never reheat more than once — instead, warm only what you plan to eat.
With these simple storage and reheating methods, your Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans will stay flavorful, safe, and ready for quick meals anytime.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, these combinations make every bowl more satisfying and memorable.
1. Serve Over Rice or Quinoa
A scoop of steamed white or brown rice turns your chili into a complete, filling meal.
For a higher-protein option, serve it over quinoa — it absorbs the rich sauce and adds texture.
This pairing also stretches the dish further, keeping each serving budget-friendly.
2. Enjoy with Cornbread
Soft, slightly sweet cornbread complements the smoky, spicy flavor of chili.
It’s ideal for soaking up every bit of the hearty sauce.
You can also use cornbread muffins for individual servings at family dinners or potlucks.
3. Top with Fresh Garnishes
Toppings add color, freshness, and contrast to your chili. Try:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Sliced jalapeños
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Diced avocado
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
Mix and match to suit your taste — each addition enhances flavor and presentation.
4. Pair with a Side Salad
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chili.
This fresh side adds crunch, fiber, and color to your meal.
It’s a perfect combination for those aiming to keep the meal nutritious and light.
5. Serve with Baked Potatoes
Pour your Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans over baked potatoes for a fun twist.
Top with cheese, chives, and a dollop of sour cream for an easy, comforting dinner idea.
It’s a creative way to repurpose leftovers too.
6. Turn It Into a Party Dish
Hosting guests? Serve chili as part of a DIY chili bar.
Set out bowls of toppings, chips, rice, and cornbread.
Guests can build their own bowls — fun, customizable, and affordable.
7. Pair with Drinks
- For a refreshing contrast, serve with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water.
- If you prefer wine, a bold red wine like Zinfandel or Shiraz works perfectly with chili’s spice.
Whether you’re meal prepping, entertaining, or feeding your family, Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans fits any occasion — hearty, flexible, and always satisfying.
Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans — FAQ
Quick answers to common questions about ingredients, timing, storage, and budget swaps.
Can I cook Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans overnight?
Do I have to brown the ground beef first?
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
How can I make the chili less spicy (or spicier)?
What size slow cooker should I use?
How do I thicken Crockpot Chili with Ground Beef and Beans?
Can I make this chili gluten-free or dairy-free?
How long does it keep in the fridge and freezer?
What are the best budget-friendly substitutions?
How can I repurpose leftovers into new meals?
