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Slow Cooker High Protein Beef Chili - Hearty, Easy, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional, for depth)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice (to finish)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil for sautéing
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, Greek yogurt, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and most of the moisture cooks off, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Stir in the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook 3–4 minutes until slightly softened. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir 1 minute to toast the spices.
  4. Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, black beans, kidney beans, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
  5. Set the slow cooker: Cook on Low for 6–8 hours or on High for 3–4 hours. The longer time on Low yields deeper flavor and a thicker texture.
  6. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in cocoa powder if using. Taste and adjust salt and spices. If you want a bit more brightness, stir in apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lime.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings. For extra protein, top with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar.