The BEST Slow Cooker Taco Chili

taco chili in a bowl topped with crushed chips, sour cream, and cheese

5 from 8 votes

The BEST Slow Cooker Taco Chili

If you’re craving a cozy, hearty chili loaded with bold flavors that’s easy to throw together, this slow cooker taco chili is just the thing! It’s a perfect option for cold winter months when you want something delicious simmering away while you handle the day. Packed with lean ground beef, vibrant veggies, and flavorful spices, this chili brings the warmth of taco night to a bowl.

Prep Time10

Cook Time3

Total Time3 10

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free

Servings: people

Author: Mary Smith

Equipment

Slow Cooker

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 lbs lean ground beef I like to use 93/7%
½ onion diced
1 red bell pepper diced
3 cloves minced garlic
15 oz black beans drained and rinsed
15 oz pinto beans drained and rinsed
4 oz diced green chiles
15 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes
15 oz tomato sauce
½ cup beef broth
2 Siete Foods taco seasoning packets Or Simply Organic brand also has great ingredients
salt and pepper to taste

Toppings

shredded cheese
sour cream or Greek yogurt
Chopped cilantro
crushed up tortilla chips

Instructions

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium high heat.
Add the ground beef and break apart with a wooden spoon while cooking for 5-7 minutes.
Add in the onion, pepper, and garlic and saute for 2-3 more minutes.
Transfer to your slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients.
Stir well, then cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 7-8 hours.
Top with cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and crushed up tortilla chips, if desired.

Notes

- For a low-carb option, skip the beans and add more peppers, zucchini, or chopped cauliflower for texture. You’ll still get that chili vibe without the extra carbs.

- Want your chili spicier? Add extra green chiles, cayenne pepper, or a dash of chili powder. For a milder version, stick to mild taco seasoning.

- Feel free to sneak in extra veggies like corn, zucchini, or even a handful of chopped spinach for a nutritional boost.

- This recipe is super flexible! Switch up the beans, swap out the ground beef, or try a plant-based ground meat alternative to make it vegan.

- If your chili is too thick for your liking, thin it out by using some chicken broth until it has reached your desired consistency.

- This slow cooker taco chili is so easy to customize! To make it vegetarian, swap out the ground beef for an extra can of beans or use plant-based ground meat. For those who are vegan, follow the vegetarian swaps above and be sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Then, top with dairy-free cheese or avocado slices for that creamy finish.
- Let the chili cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to meld and get even better the next day!

Nutrition