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Healthy Crockpot Beef Chili

Healthy Crockpot Beef Chili for Cozy Evenings at Home

A hearty and customizable Healthy Crockpot Beef Chili that effortlessly simmers to perfection, perfect for cozy evenings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chili Base
  • 2 lbs Lean Ground Beef 85-90% lean for balanced flavor and moisture
  • 1 cup Chopped Onions Adds natural sweetness; substitute shallots for a subtle taste
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh enhances the flavor; avoid jarred
  • 1 cup Diced Poblano Pepper Offers a mild kick; bell peppers can substitute
  • 2 tbsp Chili Powder Adjust to your spice preference
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika Infuses a smoky essence; regular paprika can work in a pinch
  • 1 tsp Cumin Essential for warmth; adjust cautiously if omitting
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon A hint of sweetness rounds out the flavors
For the Cooking Liquid
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Provides moisture; beef broth can be used for richer flavor
  • 28 oz Canned Tomatoes Diced or crushed, depending on texture preference
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Thickens chili and intensifies flavor; essential for richness
  • 2 tbsp Maple Syrup Balances acidity and adds sweetness; brown sugar can substitute
For Final Flavoring
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Infuse flavor during cooking; remove before serving
  • to taste Salt Adjust for seasoning
  • to taste Cayenne Adjust for a kick of heat

Equipment

  • slow cooker
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and remove from heat.
  2. Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook for 8 minutes over medium-high heat.
  3. Add Spices: Stir in the diced poblano pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and cayenne. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  4. Transfer to Crockpot: Move the beef and spice mixture to the crockpot. Add chicken broth, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, maple syrup, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
  5. Cook: Cover and set the crockpot on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours.
  6. Adjust Consistency: If too thick, add more broth. Stir and taste for seasoning.
  7. Serve: Remove bay leaves and ladle chili into bowls. Add toppings like shredded cheese or cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg

Notes

This Healthy Crockpot Beef Chili is customizable for your family's tastes! Enjoy exploring the flavors and making it your own.

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