Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

Featured in: One-Pot Comforts

This slow cooker chili features just four main ingredients for a simple yet flavorful meal. Browned ground beef is combined with kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juices, and a chili seasoning blend, then slow cooked for hours to create a rich, hearty dish. Perfect for busy evenings or relaxed gatherings, it offers warmth and convenience. Optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, or onions can elevate the flavors. A vegetarian alternative is easy with plant-based meat or extra beans. Spice level varies by seasoning used.

Updated on Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:40:00 GMT
Steaming slow cooker chili, a comforting 4-Ingredient wonder, ready to serve with toppings. Save
Steaming slow cooker chili, a comforting 4-Ingredient wonder, ready to serve with toppings. | kookycrunch.com

A ridiculously easy, hearty chili that requires just four pantry staples–perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

I first served this chili on a chilly evening and it was an instant hit with family and friends.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
  • Kidney beans: 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each), drained and rinsed
  • Diced tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) with juices
  • Chili seasoning mix: 1 packet (1.25 oz / 35 g)

Instructions

Step 1:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2:
Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker.
Step 3:
Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), and chili seasoning mix to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Step 4:
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
Step 5:
Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Hearty 4-Ingredient slow cooker chili bubbling in the pot, offering delicious aromas for an easy dinner. Save
Hearty 4-Ingredient slow cooker chili bubbling in the pot, offering delicious aromas for an easy dinner. | kookycrunch.com

Cooking this chili has brought many cozy family moments around the dinner table during cold evenings.

Required Tools

Slow cooker, large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, can opener

Allergen Information

Contains no major allergens in base recipe but check chili seasoning packet for possible gluten, soy, or milk derivatives. Always check labels if you have allergies or intolerances.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 350 calories, 11 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, 28 g protein

This vibrantly red 4-Ingredient slow cooker chili looks perfect—a quick and flavorful meal ahead. Save
This vibrantly red 4-Ingredient slow cooker chili looks perfect—a quick and flavorful meal ahead. | kookycrunch.com

This chili is simple to prepare yet rich in flavor, making it a fantastic go-to recipe for any night.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes, replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or add an extra can of beans for a hearty vegetarian option.

What are some suggested toppings for this chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and diced onions to add flavor and texture.

How do I adjust the spice level?

The heat depends on the chili seasoning mix you choose; adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can increase the spice.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Ground turkey is a good substitute if you prefer a leaner protein without compromising taste.

How long should I cook the chili in the slow cooker?

Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours to allow flavors to meld and ingredients to become tender.

Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

A hearty chili made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and chili seasoning, slow cooked to perfection.

Prep duration
5 min
Cook duration
360 min
Complete duration
365 min
Created by Jake Peterson


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Diet considerations No dairy, No gluten

Components

Proteins

01 1 lb ground beef (substitute ground turkey if preferred)

Beans

01 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables

01 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

Seasonings

01 1 packet (1.25 oz) chili seasoning mix

Directions

Phase 01

Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until fully browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat as needed.

Phase 02

Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Transfer cooked beef to the slow cooker; add kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juices, and chili seasoning mix. Stir thoroughly to combine.

Phase 03

Slow cook the chili: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.

Phase 04

Final seasoning and serving: Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. Serve hot with preferred toppings.

Necessary tools

  • Slow cooker
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Can opener

Allergy details

Review each component carefully for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're uncertain about any ingredient.
  • May contain gluten, soy, or milk derivatives depending on chili seasoning mix; verify individual ingredient labels.

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 350
  • Fats: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Proteins: 28 g